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Tag: Back to School

Back to School Budgeting

Posted on by djbechard

The excitement of a new school year also brings financial stress for parents as they work through the budget to pay for enrollment fees, school supplies, lunches and in some cases new clothes.

The earlier you can start looking at the prices of school supplies, the faster you will recognize a good price and be able to get that item at a good value.  Comparison shopping will allow families to price name brands versus generics and shop around for sales.

Back to school is a good time to talk about the cost of things with your children as well as how you make decisions about spending money.  This will help them learn and give them an understanding about finances that they can carry forward in their lives.

Spread out your purchases. Buy what you need now, and postpone some for later. When kids return to school at the end of summer, they could probably keep wearing their appropriate summer clothes and get the new clothes, shoes and coat when the weather turns cooler.

Keep saving in mind to start budgeting for extracurricular activities.  Have a conversation with your children about how many extracurricular activities they will participate in and what is most appropriate for their age. Include those costs in the family budget.

By: Brenda Langdon

Back to School: Pack Healthy, Safe, and Tasty Lunches

Posted on by mjsaxton@ksu.edu

Students who eat full, nutritious lunches have higher cognitive function, improved mood, and better attention spans. Set your child up for success by utilizing the following tips:

  • Introduce children to a variety of whole-grain breads. If your child doesn’t like sandwiches, try an unassembled one they can eat in stages or a wrap.
  • Try “planned-overs” like hearty soups, chili, or spaghetti from the night before. Use a container that can keep foods hot.
  • Veggies and dip are always a hit. Cut up carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, or cauliflower and pack with a small container of your child’s favorite low-fat dressing.
  • Offer beverages like water and low-fat milk; 100% fruit juice should be an occasional beverage.
  • Minimize the salty and sweet treats in the lunch bag. Items like chips, “fruit” roll-ups, and cookies make it tough for small stomachs to get all the nutrients needed for good health and growth.
  • Include a favorite item along with new foods. This way if the child doesn’t care for the new item, he or she will still have the old favorite.
  • Involve children when planning lunch bag menus. They’ll look forward to lunchtime knowing they’ve helped create the menu.
  • Keep foods safe. Use insulated bags with reusable ice packs to keep foods cool.

By: Ashley Svaty

Back to School Tips

Posted on by Marci Metz

Whether you are making your own lunch for work or packing your child’s school lunch, keep these tips in mind for a safe and nutritious to-go meal!

  • Keep it cold and safe. Choose an insulated lunchbox, or always pack an ice pack if the contents contain an item that needs to stay cold.
  • Focus on colorful vegetables. Pack more dark green, red, and orange vegetables. Pack a healthy dip such as hummus to add more flavor and fun.
  • Fuel up with fruits. Choose whole fruits or fruit packed in 100% juice. Oranges, pears, peaches, berries, and unsweetened applesauce are a few great choices that will easily fit into a lunch box.
  • Shoot for whole grains. Choose whole grain foods, such as whole-wheat bread and whole wheat tortillas or crackers.
  • Pack Calcium-rich foods. Choose low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese for your child. Remember to keep these foods cold.
  • Vary the protein and healthy fats. Peanut butter, tuna, or a lean turkey sandwich are great to pack for lunch. Nuts or a hard-boiled egg are also great.

By:  Ashley Svaty

It’s Back to School Time!

Posted on by Marci Metz

Pack the book bags and pack the lunch! It’s time to head back to school! Help get your child to eat the lunch you packed with these tips:

  • Have them help choose foods at the store they like. They can also help pack their lunch.
  • If lunch time is short, pack bite sized foods. Cut sandwiches in fourths to grab easier. Pack grapes, string cheese, and whole wheat crackers.
  • Use easy open lunch bags and insulated bags with ice packs to keep cold foods cold.
  • Pack smaller portions so they don’t waste food. Keep nutrition in mind to give them good fuel on the go!

Source: www.eatright.org/resource/food/nutrition/eat-right-at-school/my-child-doesnt-eat-the-lunch-i-pack-what-do-i-do

By:  Ashley Svaty