With back to school right around the corner for many of you and actually here for my family, I though this would a convenient time to share with you a couple of green and frugal tips for your children’s lunches. If your child takes her lunch every day like mine, chances are you are spending a lot of time and resources preparing it. You probably use plastic bags, paper towels, individually packaged foods and drinks, all of which put a strain on your budget and the environment.
With just a few minor adjustments to your daily routine and buying habits you can save a bundle over time and do your part for the environment.
*Instead of using plastic bags to put your kiddlet’s lunch goodies consider purchasing reusable plastic containers. These can be used for everything from sandwiches to dried fruit and other goodies.
*Purchase an easy to open small sports bottle and fill each day with your child’s favorite drink. Just make sure it has a good seal, we don’t want it to spill out and soak kiddlet’s food.
*Stop buying individually packaged foods. I know this is one you’ve heard before, but I can’t stress enough how easy and how big of a money saver this is. Individually packaged foods not only cost more, but require more natural resources to package.
*Let your child pick out their favorite cloth napkin design and I suggest purchasing 5 or so. It may seem like up front, but you’ll be glad you don’t have to wash the same napkin every night. Plus you’re more likely to continue using them if it isn’t a hassle.
*Invest in a sturdy, insulated lunchbox sans characters. Yes, they’re cute and yes, your child is going to whine for one..but putting the money down on a good one now that will last them many school years with save you money in the long run.
*Rather than sending plasticware each day, spend a little money and pick up a couple packages of cheap toddler reusable forks and spoons. Toddlerware is great because if your child accidentally throws it away it’s no big deal and they can be washed and reused.
We’ve been doing these few small things since KG started school last year and it has saved a ton of money along the way. I’m also impressed by how much KG has gleaned from these small practices; she asks for snacks in bowls/containers rather than in a snack bag and loves to drink out of her very own water bottle.
I would love to hear your frugal or green back to school tips!
Please share them with me here!!
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We use snack bowls too. All the plastic bags really add up. Great ideas by the way! DAWN
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