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Six lunchbox hacks for busy parents

Category: kids

If you need a helping hand packing a nutritious lunchbox the little ones will enjoy, but also get them out the door on time, check out these six clever hacks!

Add lunchbox notes and jokes

A good giggle, a special note, or a bit of motivation is a brilliant way to make lunchtime fun. A hand-written note from you is a simple, yet special way to remind the little ones you’re thinking of them. And if you know they enjoy a good ‘dad joke’ or even a riddle, you could print some off in advance and keep them handy to pop in their lunchbox each day.

A lunchbox feature an apple, strawberries, a star cut sandwich and kiwi fruit.

Cut sandwiches into fun shapes

The element of surprise is a fun way to ensure the kids look forward to opening their lunchboxes each day. So, why not try using novelty sandwich cutters next time!

Slice and dice

What is it about sliced fruit and veg that makes it so much more appealing? Your kids might agree!

Helpful tip: to prevent browning, toss apple slices in apple juice then pop in an airtight container. 

The trending tortilla wrap

Fruit Wraps including bananas, blueberries and strawberries 

These trending tortilla creations could be our new favourite lunch hack, not only because they’re a lot of fun to make, but you can pack so much goodness into these nifty wraps! And we have a feeling the kids will love them just as much. Simply pick up some round wholemeal tortillas from your local Stockland centre, make a cut to the middle (like the picture), fill the quarters with whatever you like, then fold it up. Yum!

Freeze yoghurt

Looking for a clever way to keep their lunchbox goodies cool but don’t have the space for an ice brick? Freeze a yoghurt pouch! It’ll defrost by lunchtime, all the while keeping their other food cool and fresh.

Buy a thermos container

Here at Stockland, we’re all about being sustainable in small ways, every day. Which is why we love a thermos container to make the most of those dinner leftovers.

Helpful tip: you can heat leftovers from the night before and they’ll still be warm at lunchtime!

Feeling inspired to go one further? Try these sustainable swaps!

Hands wrapping a sandwich on dotted paper.
 

Beeswax sandwich wraps
Nowadays, there are so many fantastic ways to keep our food fresh and tasty. And one of our favourite sustainable swaps has to be reusable beeswax wraps. 

Insulated water bottle

Here in Australia, keeping the kids hydrated on the playground is super important. And an insulated water bottle that they can use time and time again, will keep their drink chilled and their thirst quenched.

Heavy duty lunchbox

To ensure you don’t have to continue replacing their lunchbox, be sure to invest in a good quality lunchbox at the beginning of each year.

Reusable yoghurt pouches

We know it can be a challenge to get out the door some mornings, but if you have time to prep, rather than buying single-use yoghurt pots, why not pick-up some reusable pouches and large tubs of yoghurt to fill them!

Have you picked up your FREE copy of the latest Winter of Food magazine at your local Stockland centre yet? There are plenty of clever hacks like these, as well as delicious winter recipes, skin and gut health tips, and date night ideas. 

A school student eating his lunch with a smile on his face.

And if you found these lunchbox hacks helpful, be sure to tag us in your creations @stocklandshopping and #foodincommon on Instagram. We love to see what the community is up to this season. 

For more everyday inspiration, updates on the latest trends and exclusive offers, register now as a Stockland Member to receive monthly updates, latest news and exclusive events from your local Stockland Shopping Centre. 

Fresh Food spread out on a grey background | Food in Common

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