Healthy lunchbox ideas for primary school children

Parents
31 January 2025
Packing a nutritious and appealing lunchbox for your primary school child can be a daily challenge. Here are some healthy lunchbox ideas that are delicious and easy to prepare, ensuring your child gets the energy and nutrients they need for a productive school day.

Rainbow veggie wraps 

Fill whole grain wraps with various colourful vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers and spinach. Add a spread of hummus or cream cheese for extra flavour and nutrition. 

Fruit and yoghurt parfait 

Layer low-fat yoghurt with fresh fruits like berries, bananas and a sprinkle of granola. This parfait is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and probiotics. 

Chicken and avocado sandwich 

Fill wholegrain bread with grilled chicken slices, mashed avocado, lettuce and tomato. This sandwich provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats and fibre. 

Mini quiches

Bake mini quiches using eggs, cheese and finely chopped vegetables like spinach, mushrooms and bell peppers. These can be made in advance and are perfect for a protein-packed lunch. 

Pasta salad

Prepare a salad with wholegrain pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives and feta cheese. Toss with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and filling meal. 

Homemade energy bars 

Make energy bars using oats, honey, nuts and dried fruits. These bars are a great alternative to store-bought snacks and provide a healthy dose of energy. 

Veggie sticks and dip 

Pack a variety of veggie sticks such as carrots, celery and bell peppers with a side of hummus or tzatziki dip. This crunchy snack is both fun to eat and nutritious. 

Turkey and cheese roll-ups 

Roll slices of turkey and cheese together and secure with a toothpick. These roll-ups are a simple and protein-rich option that kids love. 

Fruit kebabs

Thread pieces of fresh fruit like grapes, strawberries and melon onto skewers. These fruit kebabs are visually appealing and make eating fruit more exciting. 

Rice cakes with nut butter 

Spread almond or peanut butter on wholegrain rice cakes and top with banana slices or a drizzle of honey. This snack is both satisfying and packed with healthy fats and protein — but do check the allergy rules at your school as some are strictly nut-free.

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