Time management experts all agree that the secret to less hassled weekday mornings is to do as much as possible the night before. Why not try preparing lunches ahead of time and get the kids to help? Not only will this save tons of time in the morning, it will give the kids a feeling of accomplishment and responsibility. Cooking classes for kids are offered in many areas, and this can be a great way to get your kids familiar with food preparation.

Getting the kids involved in lunch making really begins at the grocery store. Let them help you pick out the things that will be going in their boxes. This way they have some investment in the whole process and hopefully will be happier about what they take every day, which means you listen to fewer complaints!

Before heading out to shop, though, take a little time to discuss lunchbox ideas and then create a shopping list. This will avoid indecision at the store. Plan a list that includes everything you need for the total number of lunches including main items, drinks, snacks and dessert.

It's a great idea to post a lunch menu on the fridge for every day. Now, each night before bed the kids can look at the list and help assemble the items for the next day's lunch.

To help get you started, here are a few novel ideas to break up the boredom of the everyday sandwich:

Pita Pizza

Lots of kids love cold pizza for lunch, but it can be messy to pack. Try this idea for a neat alternative. Take a small whole pita and cut a small slice in the top. Have the kids stuff the pita with their favourite pizza toppings, shredded cheese and a bit of sauce. Wrap in foil and heat in the oven for about ten minutes. Cool and refrigerate, then pop it into the lunch box.

Ham Boat

Kids always love something a little unique and this twist on an old favourite does the trick, and it's an easy one for kids to do. Simply take a slice of ham or any cold meat of choice, spread it with mayonnaise, mustard or ketchup and the place a slice of cheese on top, Then roll the meat and cheese into a tube and place it in a hot dog roll. It looks like a hot dog but so much healthier!

Sandwich Kebob

Who says kebobs are just for the bbq? This one makes a great lunch and the kids really have a ball preparing it! When you go shopping purchase thick slice cold cuts that you can cut into cubes. Also cut up cubes of cucumber, cheese, pickle, peppers according to what your kids like. Now let the kids assemble their kebobs on wooden skewers or toothpicks. Pack up some triangles of pita or a whole grain roll to accompany the kebob. What fun!

Tortilla Rolls

This quick and easy idea helps get a veggie or two into the lunch box. Place cream cheese and red peppers, cucumber or spinach in a food processor and blend till smooth. Have the kids spread it onto a tortilla and roll it up, then just pack and serve for a healthy sandwich alternative.

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