Back-to-school mornings seem to sneak up on me. One minute we're enjoying lazy summer days, and the next I'm stressed as the morning whilrlwind swirls around me. That's why I'm sharing easy Back to School Lunch Ideas and Lunchbox Notes to help make those mornings smoother. You'll love these free printables and worksheets!
Most kids enjoy finding a sweet surprise tucked in with their sandwich, like these free Lunch Box Jokes or a hilarious message from this collection of Lunch Box Jokes for Kids. When it comes to dinner, we use this dinner conversation starters free printable all the time to connect!
While you're getting ready for back-to-school season, don't miss these thoughtful and practical ideas in 10 Back To School Teachers Gifts Teachers Really Need.
Jump to:
Choose Your Download Option
Why You'll Love Lunch Ideas and Lunch Box Notes
- Makes lunch matter for kids: Nutritious lunches help kids stay focused at school and avoid midday sugar crashes.
- Less stress = happier mornings: With a go-to list of ideas, no more wondering what to pack at the last minute.
- Connection in their day: A little note can remind your child you're rooting for them, even when you aren't there.
School Lunch Essentials We Love
Getting lunches ready for school can be a daily challenge, but the right tools make it quicker, easier, and dare I say even a little fun.
From leak-proof lunch boxes to kid-friendly bento boxes, these tools help streamline your morning routine and keep lunches fun for little ones.
👉 Tap any image below to shop these school lunch must-haves on Amazon!
Easy Lunch Ideas
If packing school lunches feels like the same old thing every day, you're not alone. It's so easy to fall into a rut - especially when you're short on time and just trying to get everyone out the door with something healthy-ish in their lunchbox.
One way to break out of your rut is to prepare and present the food in a new way. Another thing you can do is offer different combinations of items. A fresh presentation or a few new ingredient combos can make lunch feel exciting again, without a lot of extra effort.
1. Ham and Cheese Tortilla Roll‑Ups
- Start with one soft tortilla
- Layer a few slices of ham evenly across the tortilla
- Add sliced American cheese on top of the ham
- Roll it up tightly, keeping everything tucked inside
- Slice into bite-sized pinwheels
2. Almond Butter and Jam Pinwheels
- Spread almond (or peanut) butter and jam on a tortilla, roll, slice.
- Add a fruit like banana or berries and a chewy granola bar.
Quick Tips:
- Delegate! Let kids fill one compartment each - This helps them to develop independence and take some stuff off your plate.
- Prep the tortillas the night before. Have them stacked and wrapped for the morning.
- Use bento-style containers or silicone cups to keep flavors from mixing.
Free Printable Lunchbox Notes
As if these yummy lunch ideas aren't enough to get kids smiling, I created some inspirational lunchbox notes for kids that can really brighten their day.
These 30 free printable notes have heartfelt, upbeat messages. Just print, cut, and place it into their lunchbox each morning. They are great for adding a smile to your child's day, sparking lunchtime conversation, and reminding them that you're thinking of them.
School Lunch Ideas
Packing school lunches can feel like a never-ending puzzle, trying to balance nutrition, variety, and stuff your kid will actually eat. Here are some of our go-to ideas that have made mornings smoother and lunchboxes come home empty.
- 20 Ideas for Kids' Lunches
- Chicken Nugget Bento Lunch
- Easy Dinosaur Lunch for Kids
- Kindergarten Lunch Ideas for Picky Eaters
For more lunch ideas, check out School Lunch Ideas for Picky Eaters. If you are looking for some fun back to school supplies, don't miss School Supplies for Girls.
Get Free Lunchbox Notes Here
Jenny says
May I use your lunch notes to place in individual snack bags I am putting together for a local school? The bags are for those students who may need an extra bit of energy in their school day.