Easy summer lunches: “buffet style”

Kind of a silly thing to write about but it’s been working so well for us these days, I thought I’d share. Generally, I prepare lunches for the kids the normal way – each kid gets a plate with all the same things on it. I decide what they eat and provide a first portion.  If they want more of something, I give them more. Pretty standard.  But, with the warm weather, the kids have been wanting to eat outside and I’ve found that it’s easier to serve them lunch in what I call “buffet style” as that is what it seems like to me…

I bring out a tray or two of mostly healthy foods and three plates.  Then I set it all down on the patio table and step out of the picture. The kids love it.  They love getting to choose what to put on their plates and how much. They love seeing their favorites and, for some reason, this approach encourages them to try different foods and to eat more.  I don’t understand it, but they get so excited when they see the trays come out.

Today, Jasper requested a buffet style lunch outside in the backyard. They all squealed with delight with I walked out with the trays. On the menu were watermelon slices, sugar snap peas, deli turkey slices, and saltines.  I try to offer different fruits and veggies, with some protein and carbs thrown in to help keep them full. Other days I’ve done mini pepperonis, summer sausage, peas, carrots, green beans, blackberries, strawberries, apple slices, nuts, wheat thins, ham, cucumbers, cheese sticks, sunflower seeds, popcorn, etc.  With 3 growing boys, I’m going to have to keep expanding the menu, but I think this is how I’m going to handle summer lunches from here on out, as it is an easy way to keep everyone happy!