3 Lunches Your Kids Can Make Themselves
Lauren Mardeusz, RD Salt + Honey Nutrition Therapy
Encouraging independence in the kitchen is a wonderful way to build confidence and skills while also taking a bit of the pressure off busy parents. When it comes to kids lunch, simplicity is key. Providing options that are easy to assemble, fun to create, and delicious to eat helps ensure kids enjoy their time preparing meals and feel proud of their creations. These lunches are ideal for little chefs and don’t require fancy equipment or dangerous tasks.
First up is the classic DIY Sandwich Bar. Lay out a variety of bread, wraps, or even crackers, along with simple fillings like sliced turkey, cheese, lettuce, and condiments. Kids love being able to pick and choose their favorite ingredients, and this activity teaches them about portioning and flavor combinations. Offer pre-cut veggies like cucumber slices or carrot sticks to round out the meal and give them a balanced lunch they can feel good about eating.
Another fun and creative lunch idea is a Snack Plate Meal. It’s like a mini charcuterie board tailored to kids. Set out small portions of items like sliced fruit, nuts (if no allergies), cheese cubes, whole-grain crackers, and deli meat. Let them arrange the items however they like—some may create faces or patterns with their food! This lunch format is not only engaging but also helps with food variety, introducing new flavors in a non-intimidating way. Plus, there’s little to no cooking involved, which keeps things simple for everyone.
Finally, let’s not forget English Muffin Pizzas. Kids can have fun spreading marinara sauce on halved English muffins and topping them with shredded cheese and their favorite toppings, such as pepperoni or chopped veggies. Once prepped, an adult can pop them in a toaster oven or regular oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese. These pizzas are the perfect combination of easy assembly and a warm, comforting lunch that feels like a treat.
These three ideas—DIY sandwiches, snack plates, and English muffin pizzas—are perfect ways to teach kids independence in the kitchen. They’ll learn to take ownership of their meals, gain confidence in their abilities, and maybe even discover a new love for cooking. Plus, these lunches are flexible enough to accommodate a variety of tastes and dietary needs, making them a win for families with multiple children.
By involving kids in preparing their own lunches, you’re not just saving time—you’re helping them build life skills that will serve them for years to come. And with options like these, they’ll have plenty of fun in the process!
DIY Sandwich Bar
Equipment
- Plates or cutting boards
- Butter knife or small spreader
- Ingredients (per serving):
- 2 slices of bread or 1 wrap
- 2 oz sliced turkey or ham
- 1 slice cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or American)
- 1 leaf lettuce
- 1 tsp mayonnaise or mustard (optional)
- Pre-cut veggies (e.g., cucumber slices, carrot sticks)
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread or 1 wrap
- 2 oz sliced turkey or ham
- 1 slice cheese cheddar, Swiss, or American
- 1 leaf lettuce
- 1 tsp mayonnaise or mustard optional
- Pre-cut veggies e.g., cucumber slices, carrot sticks
Instructions
- Lay out all sandwich components on a clean surface.
- Let kids spread mayonnaise or mustard on the bread or wrap using a butter knife.
- Layer the turkey, cheese, and lettuce onto one slice of bread.
- Top with the second slice of bread or roll up the wrap tightly.
- Serve with pre-cut veggies on the side.
Notes
Calories: 280
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 8g
Snack Plate Meal
Equipment
- Small plate or tray
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sliced fruit e.g., apple slices or grapes
- 1/4 cup nuts or seeds e.g., almonds or sunflower seeds
- 1 oz cheese cubes
- 6 whole-grain crackers
- 2 oz deli meat
Instructions
- Arrange all ingredients on a plate or tray.
- Encourage kids to get creative with the presentation, like making patterns or shapes with the food.
- Serve immediately or pack in a container for later.
Notes
Calories: 320
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 18g
English Muffin Pizzas
Equipment
- Baking sheet or toaster oven tray
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 whole English muffin halved
- 2 tbsp marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4-6 slices of pepperoni or 2 tbsp chopped veggies e.g., bell peppers, mushrooms
Instructions
- Preheat a toaster oven or conventional oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the halved English muffins on a baking sheet.
- Spread 1 tbsp marinara sauce onto each muffin half using a spoon.
- Sprinkle each half with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Add pepperoni slices or chopped veggies as desired.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Calories: 220
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 8g
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