Packed lunches

Many children who attend nursery or childminders all day have to take a packed lunch with them.

Parents may find it can be difficult to find inspiration and ideas every day and many busy parents end up giving the same thing every day, often pre-packaged foods such as sausage rolls, snack packs and high sugar/salt foods. 

However, with a little forward planning and preparation, it is possible to save money on lunches and provide a more nutritious meal for your child.

The foods you provide your child when they are young and the habits they form can have a lifelong impact on their health so it is important to promote healthy choices and attitudes towards food from an early age. This will pave the way for good health and help children develop patterns of healthy eating for life.

Packed lunch ideas for children aged 1-5 years

NHS Western Isles has produced the Packed Lunch Ideas for Children aged 1-5 Years booklet to give parents some ideas. 

If you would like a hard copy of this booklet, please email: wi.dietetics@nhs.scot