THE LUNCHBOX STRUGGLE IS REAL

QUESTION

“My son, who is seven, is such a bad eater. In an attempt to get him to eat something at school, I’ve resorted to filling his lunchbox with cookies, fruit juice, Cheddar crackers, chips and a malt drink. (I tried adding an apple and a banana, but he waited for me to leave the kitchen and removed them.) I don’t know what to do any more with his lunchbox. He doesn’t like bread and this lunchbox is my attempt at getting him to eat at least three things. It usually comes back eighty percent full, with just one or two things missing.

When we are at home, I can really talk to him about food and we can compromise. But the problem is when he’s at school. Anything that’s meant to be hot and has become cold comes back. Anything that has become soggy, comes back. One week yoghurt is okay, the next it’s avoided like the plague. Apples can’t be eaten with the skin, but also not sliced up because it turns brown. And on and on we go.

Mums and dads, what do you pack to ensure your child’s lunchbox is at least somewhat balanced? I’m starting to be concerned.”

“If you limit the options he will get hungry and eventually eat what is available. I noticed that most of the items have a high sugar content. That will give him sugar rushes/ highs that are short-lived and lows that will make him crave sugary things again. Both the highs and lows are going to affect his energy levels, concentration and ultimately his general learning at school. Maybe try a consultation with a dietitian or nutritionist. Hopefully that will help. Good luck, mummy. Please note: I’m not judging at all.