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12.) Include treat items such as pretzels, crackers, a cookie, cereal bar, or a small bag of chips. Treats are OK once in a while as long as the rest of the lunch is balanced first. One Hershey's Kiss is a great portion-controlled way to say “I love you.” While a homemade cookie usually contains more wholesome ingredients than a store-bought one, it is OK to offer processed cookies or snacks occasionally. Remind your children that they should eat whole foods first from the food groups (protein, grains, fruits, and vegetables) before they dig into the “treat” item. Treats do not have to be food either; a little love note or sticker for younger children is a nice surprise.

It is also a good idea to do some planning ahead. Be sure to pick up fruits, meats, fresh breads and snack items on the weekend so you have the supply for the week. Think about baking a dozen quick banana muffins on the weekend, then freezing them for lunchboxes. Keep your pantry organized so that everything is at your fingertips. For example, even though it appears as if it doesn't belong there, I keep my peanut butter in the cupboard above the bread drawer to save myself time in the morning.

So pick up some healthy lunchbox items at the grocer this week, get organized, and start your children off right this year by setting a good example and providing a healthy lunch.