Every parent who has ever packed a lunch for their child knows the frustration of having some of it come home uneaten. Here are some tips for packing school lunches your kids will love:

— Wash, slice, and individually bag a week’s worth of fruits, veggies, and snacks on the weekend. Recruit your kids’ help to shop and pack; they are more likely to eat food they have chosen and prepared.

— Think beyond bread: try tortillas, pitas, lettuce wraps, baked potatoes, rice bowls, and dinner leftovers.

— Pack water instead of juice; fruit for dessert; dips for veggies; and add variety with finger foods.

— Use cookie cutters to cut sandwiches, cheese, and veggies into creative shapes. Fun food tastes better!

— Most importantly, be a positive role model! Your children will be more willing to try foods if you are.

Visit us online at www. http://uaf.edu/ces/districts/kenai/, call us at 907-262-5824, or stop by our office at 43691 K-Beach Rd, Suite A, for a handout on packing great lunches for kids.

Submitted by Amorette Payment, UAF Cooperative Extension Service, Nutrition Educator, Kenai Peninsula District.