The opening of the new school year is just a few days away, and with it, frenzied activities to cover and label books and notebooks, not to mention the endless preparation of snacks and lunches that are not only healthy but appetizing so that the kids will eat them. Solane, the ever helpful and leading cooking gas, shares a few tips on how to make it easier for moms to prepare packed lunches that are not only nutritious but also enjoyable for school children.
Make food yummy and healthy. As growing kids, preschoolers and grade-schoolers need all the nutrition to stay healthy, grow their muscles, strengthen bones and keep their brain sharp. Make sure that meals not only taste great but also cover the “recommended dietary allowance” for the nutrients kids need: Carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals. Check your food pyramid to see if what you have prepared conforms to the idea of a balanced diet, meaning there should be portions of grains (typically rice and noodles), meat, and fruits and veggies – even oils.
One of the hardest things to introduce to a child’s diet is vegetables. Studies show that they can learn best by example. But since parents cannot sit all day waiting in school and see to it that their kids eat the greens they included in the boxed lunch, the key is to cook the veggies in a child-friendly way. For instance, they can be cleverly paired with a siding or sauce that kids already love. Examples would be boiled beans dipped in mayonnaise, tofu cubes rolled alongside ground beef in a tortilla wrap, or mushrooms slathered in cheese.
Food should be colorful and interesting. Kids are attracted to colorful things, and so they will be more inclined to finish what’s on their plate if the food looks enticing because of the colors – pretty much the same way kids prefer their clothes and toys to have attractive colors.
Remember, too, that plating plays an important role because it can capture their attention and stimulate their imagination. Some of the garnishing items that also bring nutrients to the dish are carrots, cucumber, red or green bell peppers, celery, and pineapples. Make sure your pantry is well stocked with these fruits and veggies to instantly bring color to your kid’s lunch!
Prepare a meal plan. Being a mom is a 24/7 occupation that requires one to put on so many hats, which is why planning is essential. To save time without sacrificing the flavor and nutritional value of the food, prepare a meal plan. Make sure there are food staples like chicken and vegetables on hand, as these can be used for multiple tasty meals. Prepare a weekly menu of packed lunches and prepare the ingredients and other cooking necessities well in advance.
Kids’ school lunches are best cooked using a reliable source of fuel. For safe and efficient cooking, use Solane LPG, a brand known for its mark of safety and quality. Order your Solane LPG tank today by calling Solane’s Hatid Bahay hotline number 887-5555 or visiting www.solane.com.ph.