1. Information for parents

2. Introduction Eating well is important for children’s health and development A healthy, enjoyable lunch gives children the energy they need to learn, play and do well at school

3. A Healthy Lunch Box A good variety of foods that fit into different food groups will help your child to eat a balanced lunch providing the energy they need to do well at school

4. Food Groups Foods generally fit into five food groups Carbohydrates = energy Fruit and vegetables = vitamins & minerals Meat, fish and alternatives = protein & growth Dairy products = calcium Fatty and sugary food (sugary drinks as well)

5. Carbohydrate Foods BreadRice Pasta Couscous A sandwich or cooked pasta and salad would be good choices for this food group

6. Fruit and Vegetables It is important we all eat lots of variety from this group at least 5 portions a day Aim to include two portions A portion is what roughly fits into your child’s hand

7. Meat, Fish or Alternatives Cold meat Hummus Hard boiled eggTinned fish Sandwiches Pasta Rice

8. Dairy products MilkCheese Yoghurt Important for growing children Dairy foods are a source of calcium Bone development and teeth

9. Fatty and Sugary foods Avoid including items from this group A small amount will be hidden in foods –Margarine –Mayonnaise –Added sugar in a fruit yoghurt –Sugary drinks

10. Your Ideas We would like to encourage your ideas and input with the implementing of our lunch box policy

11. Lunch Box Ideas Ham sandwich, salad, yoghurt and a banana Pasta mixed with tuna, sweetcorn, carrot and baby spinach. An apple and a cheese slice Cold couscous and chicken pieces, raisins and a yoghurt Cheese and pickle sandwich, cherry tomatoes and small tub of tinned pineapple chunks Slice of cold pizza, carrot, celery and cucumber sticks, hummus dip. Dried apricots and a yoghurt

12. Crisps and other savoury snacks Chocolate bars Cakes, biscuits and cookies Fizzy drinks We are actively discouraging

13. We do not allow Glass bottles Ring pull cans Flasks Swapping food

14. Store it in the fridge Vary the sort of bread you use Cold cooked pasta – pasta salad Put some salad in a small bag or tub Add an ice pack Encourage your child to help with the packed lunch Small carton of fruit juice or milk Practical Tips

15. For more information contact the school For more ideas –www.eatwell.gov.ukwww.eatwell.gov.uk –www.change4life.comwww.change4life.com –www.schoolfoodtrust.org.ukwww.schoolfoodtrust.org.ukInformation