One minute you’re lounging by the pool, sipping something cold while your tween cannonballs into summer. The next, you’re parked in the school drop-off line, clutching your coffee like a lifeline and wondering how it’s already September.
Our tween is officially back in school, and while we’re still figuring out how to get out the door without forgetting shoes, lunch, or sanity—I thought I’d share a few lunch ideas to help ease the transition. Because let’s be honest: packing a lunch that’s both edible and exciting five days a week is no small feat.
Lunch Ideas for Tweens Who Are “So Over Sandwiches”
Here are a few tried-and-true combos that have actually made it back home with fewer complaints than usual:
1. BBQ Chicken Sliders
Mini slider buns filled with shredded BBQ chicken, a slice of cheddar, and a pickle. Wrap in foil to keep warm or serve cold with a side of coleslaw.
2. Crunchy Turkey & Pickle Roll-Ups
Spread cream cheese on a tortilla, layer with turkey slices and thin dill pickle spears, then roll and slice into pinwheels. Tangy, crunchy, and super snackable.
3. Cold Pesto Pasta Cups
Toss cooked rotini with pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls. Serve in a cup with a fork—easy to eat and full of flavor.
4. Pizza Bagel Bento
Pack a halved mini bagel with marinara, shredded mozzarella, and pepperoni slices. Let them build their own pizza at lunch—bonus points for a toaster oven at school!
5. Greek Chicken Pita Pockets
Fill pita halves with grilled chicken, cucumber, tomato, and a dollop of tzatziki. Fresh, flavorful, and easy to hold.
6. Banana Sushi
Spread peanut butter on a tortilla, place a whole banana in the center, roll it up, and slice into rounds. Fun presentation, great energy boost.
7. Walking Tacos
Pack a small bag of corn chips (like Fritos or Doritos), and a separate container of seasoned ground beef or turkey, shredded cheese, lettuce, and salsa. At lunch, your tween opens the chip bag, adds toppings, and eats with a fork—no plate needed!
Pro Tip: Include a napkin and a sturdy fork. Bonus points for guac or sour cream in a mini container.
8. Classic Chicken Salad
Shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with mayo, celery, Old Bay, and pepper. Serve in a croissant, lettuce wrap, or with crackers. It’s comforting, protein-rich, and feels “grown-up” without being fussy.
Optional Add-ins: Not into Old Bay, add chopped grapes, apples, pecans, or dried cranberries for a different texture and flavor.
9. Homemade Lunchable
Use a bento box or divided container to pack:
- Sliced turkey or ham (or meat of choice)
- Cheese cubes or slices
- Crackers (whole grain or pretzel thins)
- Baby carrots or cucumber coins
- A treat like a mini cookie or fruit leather
Why It Works: It’s interactive, customizable, and way healthier than the store-bought version.
10. Apple Nachos
Thinly sliced apples topped with a drizzle of almond butter, granola, and mini chocolate chips. Pack the toppings separately to avoid sogginess.
And because lunchtime should feel a little special—even if it’s just 20 minutes at a cafeteria table—I’ve started slipping in a little something extra.
Lunchbox Notes to Brighten Their Day
Whether it’s a silly joke, a sweet reminder, or a mini pep talk, these notes are my way of saying “I see you” even when I’m not there. I know how much a little love tucked between the apple slices and cheese cubes can mean, so I’ve created a set of motivational free printable lunchbox notes just for you. Grab yours below and make lunchtime a little more magical!
Back-to-school may be chaotic, but it’s also a fresh start. So here’s to routines that work (eventually), lunches that get eaten (mostly), and kids who feel loved—one note, one bite, one beautiful mess at a time.
With coffee in one hand and chaos in the other,
💛 Bethany