Lunchbox Love: Classic Sandwich With Cranberry Mayo

Most parents can agree: packing school lunches is a pain. Obviously, you want your kids to eat, but putting together a midday meal that is nut-free, nutritious and won't come back warm and squished hours later is a challenge.

That's why we turned to registered dietitian Noelle Martin. She's put together three easy-to-make, balanced lunches your kid might just enjoy. No promises, but it's worth a try, right? This lunch not a hit? Try one of these.

What foods should be cut into small pieces?

It’s tempting to toss in whole grapes or big chunks of fruit when you’re in a rush, but cutting foods properly can make a big difference—both for safety and how much kids actually eat. Grapes, cherry tomatoes and other round foods should always be sliced lengthwise for young kids. Anything spherical or coin-shaped can easily block a child’s airway.

For younger eaters, cut foods into halves or quarters and remove tough skins when possible. And even for older kids, bite-sized pieces are just easier to manage—especially when lunch periods are short and kids want to chat as much as they eat.

Turkey and Havarti sandwich

What's inside?

• Turkey and Havarti sandwich on whole-grain bread with cranberry mayo
  (Mix cranberry sauce and mayo, or sub jam for cranberry sauce.)
• Grapes (slice or dice for younger kids)
• Apple slices
• Broccoli (fresh or steamed) with a drizzle of dressing

What makes this a balanced lunch?

"This lunch provides protein from turkey and cheese, plus fibre from whole grains, fruits, and veggies to keep kids energized all day," says Martin. For smaller kids or smaller appetites, pack just half a sandwich. For bigger kids or appetites, add an extra snack. "The fruit adds hydration and natural sweetness for kids who might not drink enough water."

Why is it appealing to kids?

Grapes (always cut them so they don't pose a choking hazard) and apples are juicy and easy to eat, and broccoli (fresh or steamed) is fun to hold by the stem—especially with a drizzle of dressing.