The first days of school aren’t always smooth sailing. Between new classrooms, unfamiliar faces, and the nerves that come with it all, your child might be carrying more than just a backpack; they’re carrying feelings, too.
And while we can’t hold their hand in the lunchroom, we can slip a little comfort into their lunchbox.
A well-packed lunch and a simple note can do more than fill their stomach; it can remind them they’re safe, loved, and capable.
Let’s Talk About Kids’ Mental Health
Back-to-school isn’t just a shift in routine; it can be an emotional rollercoaster for little minds. Transitions like these can stir up anxiety, fear of the unknown, or even self-doubt. It’s important to remember that mental health starts young, and small, consistent gestures, like a kind note in their lunchbox, to help build emotional resilience. When kids feel seen, heard, and supported, it strengthens their confidence, self-worth, and overall well-being. Your daily check-ins, hugs, and yes, even a simple note, matter more than you know. Your time is valuable and limited. To help, here are some kid-approved lunchbox ideas, and below you’ll find positive mindset lunchbox notes that you can click on and print off 27, a month’s worth at your fingertips!
30 Easy + Fun Back-to-School Lunch Ideas for Kids
Main Items:
- Turkey & cheese pinwheels
- Mini pita pockets with hummus & veggies
- DIY lunchable: crackers, cheese cubes, deli meat
- Cream cheese & cucumber sandwiches (cut into fun shapes)
- Chicken & rice in a thermos
- Grilled cheese cut into dippers + tomato soup in a thermos
- Hard-boiled eggs + mini bagel with cream cheese
- Turkey or veggie wraps
- Pasta salad with hidden veggies
- Cheese quesadilla triangles + salsa
- Tuna or egg salad sandwich
- Mini pancakes or waffles + syrup dip
- Mini meatballs + marinara in a thermos
- Cold soba noodles with soy sauce
- Chicken nuggets in a thermos (they stay warm!)
Fruits & Veggies:
16. Apple slices + sunflower butter
17. Grapes + cheese cubes
18. Baby carrots + ranch or hummus
19. Cucumber coins + cream cheese dip
20. Fruit kabobs (strawberries, melon, grapes)
21. Orange slices
22. Cherry tomatoes + mini mozzarella balls
23. Celery sticks + nut-free butter
24. Frozen peas (they thaw by lunch!)
25. Dried fruit mix or freeze-dried strawberries
Snacks & Treats:
26. Mini muffins (banana, blueberry, etc.)
27. Yogurt tube + granola
28. Trail mix (nut-free)
29. Graham crackers + chocolate hummus
30. Rice cakes + cream cheese + sprinkles
Mindful Words Lunchbox Notes
Lunch is about more than food; it’s a mid-day pause. It’s your chance to be with them in spirit when you’re not there in person.
Slip in a quick, encouraging message. These little notes can ground your child emotionally, promote a positive mindset, and ease those back-to-school jitters — especially in the first few weeks.
What it includes:
27 unique lunchbox notes with positive mindset messages
Ready-to-print PDF file — download, print, and cut!
Notes designed to inspire kindness, confidence, and smiles every day
How It Works:
Purchase and instantly download the PDF file.
Open and print as many copies as you like on standard letter-size paper (8.5″ x 11″).
Cut out the notes and place them in your child’s lunchbox or anywhere they need a little cheer!
A sandwich feeds the body. A heartfelt note feeds the soul.
Mom on the go in Holy Toledo 