With school back in session many parents find themselves debating over whether to pack a lunch for their children or purchase their lunches from the school cafeteria. Before you decide the extra few minutes of slumber are worth the price of school lunches ask yourself if your child's health is as easily purchased.

Your children's school lunch program may not be as nutritionally sound as you'd like to think. In fact it's most likely high in saturated fat and lacking the nutrients your growing child needs. When a snack bar or vending machines are available the likelihood of your child eating a balanced meal diminishes even more. After all how can Mystery Meat compare with pizza, soda pop, and chips?

Here are a few tips on packing a lunch your child and your budget will love!
• Did you make your child's favorite meal for dinner? Use an insulated lunch box and serving dishes to maintain proper temperatures and send them what remains of their favorite dish.
• Stay away from pre-packaged lunches when possible. They're typically high in fat, sugar, and empty calories as they're highly processed.

• Involve your child in both planning and preparing their lunch. Not only are they more likely to eat it, but they're learning about nutrition as they go!
• Lean luncheon meats and whole grain breads can make a healthy sandwich, but be careful not to get stuck in the same routine. Offer healthy crackers and cheese, a hard boiled egg, or even better a salad in place of the traditional stand by.
• A lot of things can be prepared and gathered the night before, especially if you're using leftovers from that night's meal. Save yourself time in double handling by preparing lunches while you're taking care of dinner. Fresh vegetables can be sliced and bagged, and fresh fruits are often ready to go with a simple washing.
A few minutes planning and preparing can make for a much happier and healthier child.