Best Back-to-School Lunches Kids Can Make Themselves

Parents, rejoice! We’ve pulled together some of our best back-to-school lunches that kids can MAKE THEMSELVES! (And will therefore eat.) Unquestionably, we’ve got something here for everyone, and they’re all customizable. So, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and picky-eater requirements can all be met – easily. This year, let’s send our kids back to school with all our love … but with lunches they’ve made themselves.

If you’re like most moms and dads, one of the worst parts of the back-to-school season is making kids’ lunches. And no matter who is making it, preparing kid-friendly, nutritious lunches they will actually eat is a challenge. So, why not allow your kids to take charge of their own meals this year? Teaching kids to make their own lunches not only fosters independence but also encourages them to make healthier choices. To kick-start the school year on a fun and educational note, here are some of the best easy-to-make back-to-school lunches that kids can prepare themselves!

Best Back-to-School Lunches Kids Can Make Themselves

Rainbow Wraps. Kids can use large lettuce leaves or whole wheat tortillas to create colorful wraps filled with various veggies, proteins (like turkey, ham, or chicken), cheeses, and a favorite condiment. Easily, this interactive lunch idea ensures a balanced meal while letting kids get creative with flavors.
Superstar Smoothie Bowls. Kids can easily create their own smoothie bowls-to-go by topping their favorite smoothie base with sliced fresh fruits, granola, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and a drizzle of honey or nut butter. Significantly, they’re naturally delicious, nutritious, filling, and fun to eat. (Moms love these too!)
Rainbow Veggie and Cheese Kabobs. Provide a selection of colorful veggies, cheese cubes, and small skewers. Finally, a dipping sauce like hummus or yogurt-based dressing adds extra flavor.
Peanut Butter Banana Sushi. Using a whole wheat tortilla or flatbread, kids can spread peanut butter, place a banana on it, and then roll it up tightly. Next, slice the roll into bite-sized “sushi” pieces for a playful and satisfying lunch.
Mini Pita or Bagel Pizzas. Mini whole wheat pita bread or sliced bagels are the perfect base for these kid-friendly pizzas. Kids can choose their favorite toppings including tomato sauce, cheese, diced veggies, and lean proteins. They can customize their pizzas and then heat them up in the microwave for a quick and tasty lunch. (These spider Pizzas are super fun for Halloween!)
Yogurt Parfait Creations. Layering yogurt, granola, and a mix of fresh fruits like berries, bananas, and kiwi in a to-go parfait cup or jar not only looks appealing but also provides a balanced and tasty lunch option. Further, kids can experiment with different combinations to create their own parfait masterpieces. This lunch option doubles as a healthy snack and satisfies any sweet cravings.
Quirky Quesadillas. Turn lunchtime into a creative endeavor by offering whole wheat tortillas, shredded cheese, and a variety of fillings like diced ham, sliced turkey, spinach, and even pineapple. Quickly, kids can construct their own quesadillas, which can then be microwaved.
Fruit Kebabs with a Twist. Beyond traditional fruit kebabs, add a fun twist by offering marshmallows, mini rice cakes, and chunks of fruit like strawberries, grapes, and melon. Finally, kids can assemble their kebabs and enjoy a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Classic PB&J Sushi Rolls. Give the classic PB&J a playful twist by spreading peanut butter and jelly on whole wheat tortillas, then rolling them up and slicing them into bite-sized “sushi” rolls. When done, they’re a fun and familiar option that kids will enjoy making and eating. (This has been a favorite for my kids for years!)
Homemade Snack Box. Kids can make their own “snack box” by filling compartments with whole grain crackers, cheese cubes, sliced turkey or ham, baby carrots, and grapes. Moreover, they can mix and match items to create their own well-rounded lunch box.
No-Bake Energy Bites. Provide ingredients like oats, peanut butter, honey, and mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruits, and seeds. Kids can mix these together to create their own no-bake energy bites. Thankfully, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for lunch or an energy boost during the school day.
Satisfying Salad Bowls. Show kids how to compose a balanced salad using greens, protein (chicken, beans, or tofu), colorful veggies, nuts or seeds, and a dressing of their choice. In addition, encourage them to experiment with different combinations and textures.
Trail Mix Bento Box. Kids can assemble their own bento box by choosing from an assortment of nuts, dried fruits, whole grain crackers, and a few chocolate chips for a sweet treat. Subsequently, this lunch is perfect for snacking and variety.
DIY Pasta or Quinoa Salad. Cooked pasta or quinoa, diced veggies, cheese cubes, and a simple vinaigrette dressing can be combined in various ways to create a tasty salad. Obviously, kids can mix and match their favorite ingredients for a personalized meal. (Presently, my middle daughter is obsessed with this quinoa Greek salad and often takes it for lunch – to make the dressing extra easy, we buy premade Maple Grove Farms Greek Dressing.)
Apple “Sandwiches.“ Kids can core and slice an apple horizontally to create circular “bread” slices. Then, spread peanut butter or almond butter between two apple slices and add raisins or granola for a nutritious and inventive sandwich.

Kid-Made Lunches Rule this Back-to-School

Encouraging kids to make their own lunches not only takes some of the stress off parents but also encourages independence, creativity, and a sense of responsibility. The best creative and fun back-to-school lunch ideas are ones that are easy for kids to make themselves. Likewise, they can provide an opportunity for them to learn about balanced nutrition and develop important life skills. So, as the school year starts, let your kids take charge of their midday meals with these delicious and wholesome options! Plus, no mommy-guilt required.