Looking for a little (healthy) lunch box inspiration for your Girls on the Run (GOTR) kid as school starts up again? 

Megan Timm, SSM Health’s Wisconsin region director of community health and registered dietician, has created three kid-approved, budget-friendly lunch menus that will leave your kids feeling full - and focused - during class and rolling into GOTR practice after school. 

Nut Butter Power Lunch

Nut butter and fruit (banana or strawberry) sandwich – spread your choice of nut butter on bread and layer on sliced fruit for a tasty jelly-inspired pairing. Include a cheese stick, pretzel sticks and raisin box. This lunch includes 24 grams of protein.

Rolling Up Flavor Lunch

Apple and nut butter tortilla rollup – layer nut butter and apple slices on a small tortilla, roll it up and secure it with a toothpick. Include a low sugar yogurt tube, goldfish baked cheese crackers and cucumber slices. This lunch includes 18 grams of protein.

Pizza Fun in a Lunchbox  

English muffin pizzas (with an option to add pepperoni!) – Slice muffin in half and add low or no sugar pizza sauce, cheese and veggies for a personal pizza. Quickly heat in air fryer, toaster oven or microwave to melt cheese. Include a small Caesar salad and a clementine. This lunch includes 21 grams of protein. 

The key is finding balance between protein, fat and carbohydrates, as that balance helps fuel our bodies well for learning and physical activity.