Parents Do (And Must) Have a Say In School Lunches!

I had a call the other day from a mother who was seeking help for her child who was struggling with weight. 

She mentioned that her child was fairly active and involved in sports, so we began to talk about the nutrition component of the issue.

We went through her daily meals, but when it came to lunch, the woman said "I dont know what she eats for lunch. I dont have control over that." 

WHOA! Back up!

School lunches have a bad reputation for being high in fat - chicken fingers, pizza, ice cream, pastas, and many other bad options for kids. 

All parents should know what their children are eating for lunch at school. Parents who pack the kids lunches know what they are eating. 

But for parents and kids who eat school lunches, parents need to get online and check out the menus. (They are usually posted online). 

Every parent can approach the situation differently, but here is my recommendation for parents who's children are struggling with weight.

First, talk to your child about what they eat at lunch each day. Don't accuse, just have an open conversation about what they like to eat, what they eat, and how much of it they eat. 

If you find they are eating the bad stuff, you have some work to do. 

We recommend you PACK THEIR LUNCH.  A sandwhich, piece of fruit, and dessert should suffice!

If you must use the school lunch system, research the option and talk with your child about how they can eat a healthier lunch. There is a chance they may not know what healthy and unhealthy foods are. Also, only allow them so much $$ per day so they dont eat too much. 

All in all, rules are different in each family. However, if your child is struggling with weight, you need to know what they are eating while at school - those calories can add up quick, and pack on pounds. 

Please keep an eye on school lunches! :)