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How to pack healthy lunches for your kids this school year

It's almost time to start packing lunches for another school year. If you have a picky eater, you know how tough it can be to keep your kids happy and healthy.  ProMedica dietitian Elizabeth Satterthwaite encourages parents to create a balance with lunches. "I'd stick to what you know they like, so even if the option maybe it's so healthy, at least if you're pairing a fruit or vegetable with that, you're going to be doing a little bit better than chips and a sandwic...

TOLEDO, OH (WTOL) - It's almost time to start packing lunches for another school year.

If you have a picky eater, you know how tough it can be to keep your kids happy and healthy.

ProMedica dietitian Elizabeth Satterthwaite encourages parents to create a balance with lunches.

"I'd stick to what you know they like ... at least if you're pairing a fruit or vegetable with that, you're going to be doing a little bit better than chips and a sandwich," Satterthwaite said.

She created a variety of lunch options such as grilled chicken with vegetables, dip and a granola bar.  She advises parents to try and avoid processed meat if possible.

She also made hard-boiled eggs, cheese, crackers, salad and a Snickers bar.  The Snickers bar lets kids feel as if they aren't restricted with their options.

The portion size also ensures they don't overindulge.

Another option she created was peanut butter and jelly with blackberries and peppers. It's important to make sure the first ingredient on the ingredient list is "whole grains" or "whole wheat."

If your kids are busy or involved in a lot of after-school activities, grab-and-go snacks such as fruit cups are always a good option. Look for things with a longer shelf life in order to stretch your dollar further.

Satterthwaite says you can also make a homemade trail mix with chocolate chips and nuts.  She urges parents to be creative if they make their own trail mix based on what each child likes.

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