Tips To Help Your Kids Survive The School Cafeteria

School is almost back in session, and that means early-morning bus rides, after-school programs, and, of course, the dreaded lunchroom.  Many kids think cafeteria food is just plain gross, some find the smaller portions of processed foods less than filling, and others simply don't get enough nutrients from fries and milk. Regardless of what your child thinks of cafeteria food, we're here to share a few tips so you can help them survive lunchtime at school.

Every kid loves pizza, so partner with other parents for a monthly pizza party for the little ones. Create a pizza party pool and let the kids dine at their desks while you socialize with other moms and dads.

There's nothing like having a homemade dinner for lunch the next day. Remember, many kids don't have access to a microwave at school, so make it something that is as good cold as it warm.

Kids love to do things themselves. Let them feel independent by encouraging them to make their own lunch. Remember to give them instructions — have them include one vegetable, some fruit, and a protein. It's a great way to teach them about nutrition.

From time to time, students at Victory Christian School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, participate in lunchroom scrambles. "We mix up our students from their normal seating assignments and give them the task of learning something new about someone new," explained principal Steve Whewell. "Later, we ask them to give a report about the new person with whom they sat." — Education World

Teach your child that there are other ways to get protein. Prepare a protein smoothie the night prior and freeze it — by the time your child is ready for lunch, the smoothie will be at a consistency that's perfect to consume with a wide straw.

At Ypsilanti High School in Michigan, principal Layne Hunt aims to respect the students' free time while maintaining safety and security when large groups of students are together in the cafeteria. "We turn on the TV monitors to the sports center channel or we turn on appropriate music on a very low volume," said Hunt. "Those things can help keep the noise level low." — Education World

Shake up the sandwich by adding surprising toppings. If you cooked meatloaf the night before, create a meatloaf sandwich for your child to take to school the next day. Kids love creative lunches.

Shake up the sandwich by adding surprising toppings. If you cooked meatloaf the night before, create a meatloaf sandwich for your child to take to school the next day. Kids love creative lunches.

Once a month, plan a theme lunch for your child and his or her classmates by coordinating with other moms and dads. Pack foods that align with a certain theme, and make sure the parents of his or her friends do the same.