The Journal of an Honest Mom

Somewhere along the way, Lunchables became a convenience food.
And they are convenient.
They’re also expensive when you’re buying them for multiple kids week after week.
So most of the time, I just make my own.

One of my favorite parts about these is that they can be made ahead of time. On the weekend, I’ll throw a few together and keep them in the refrigerator so they’re ready for the week. Then, on a busy school morning, all I have to do is grab one and toss it into a lunchbox.
Better yet, my kids are getting old enough to do it themselves. They can open the refrigerator, pick the one they want that day, and put it in their lunchbox. That’s one less thing for me to remember before we’ve even had our coffee.
They’re simple. They’re customizable. They save a little money compared to buying the pre-made versions. And most importantly, they make our mornings just a little bit easier.

Lunchable #1: The Classic
This is the one we make the most.
Crackers
Cheese cubes or sliced cheese
Lunch meat
Fruit
Maybe a small cookie if we have one
Throw in a water bottle or juice box, and lunch is packed.

Lunchable #2: Mini Pizza Kits
My kids think these are fun because they get to build them themselves.
I use the mini naan breads, a small container of pizza sauce, shredded cheese, and whatever toppings they like.
Sometimes it’s pepperoni.
Sometimes it’s chicken.
Sometimes it’s just cheese.
It’s basically a homemade version of those pizza Lunchables, but you can make them exactly how your kids like them.

Lunchable #3: Nachos
This one couldn’t be much easier.
Add tortilla chips, a small container of cheese dip (or salsa), and fruit on the side.
That’s it.

Some days simple wins.
None of these ideas are groundbreaking.
They’re just a little cheaper, easy to customize, and easy to throw together with groceries we already have in the house.
With four kids, I’ll take simple over fancy almost every time.