The Brightside: Chi’s Tips for Simplifying School Lunchbox Overwhelm by Chi Shurn Lo
If you’re deep in your lunchbox era, you’re not alone. Between early mornings, picky eaters, school rules, and the pressure to “do it right,” packing lunch can start to feel like a full-time job. Banabae friend and fellow parent Chi (@chi_lo / @yummmchi) is here to gently remind us that lunchboxes don’t need to be perfect to
be good.
With a few simple systems (and a whole lot of self-kindness), you can turn lunchbox time from overwhelming into… dare we say… manageable. Here are Chi’s go-to tips for simplifying the daily lunchbox juggle.
1. Involve Your Kids in the Process
Even small choices can make a big difference.
Ask simple questions like:
• “Which fruit do you want today?”
• “Crunchy carrots or cucumber sticks?”
Giving kids a bit of control helps them feel invested — and reduces the chances of surprise (and disappointment) when they open their lunchbox at school. Bonus: it builds independence and food confidence over time.
2. Keep a Simple Lunchbox Formula
Chi swears by a no-fuss structure that takes the guesswork out of packing:
1 main (sandwich, wrap, leftover slice, pasta salad)
2 pieces of fruit
1 serve of veggies
+ a treat now and then (because balance matters)
And yes — it is 100% okay to pop in something pre-packaged every now and then. You’re a parent, not a robot.
Chi also loves a “Friday fun snack” tradition — a little sweet surprise to celebrate the end of the week.
3. The Freezer Is Your Best Friend
Future-you will be very grateful for this one.
Batch-cook and freeze easy lunchbox staples like:
- Mini muffins (banana, zucchini, blueberry)
- Homemade sausage rolls or veggie rolls
- Pikelets or pancakes
- Frittata slices
- Meatballs
- Mini quiches
On busy mornings, you can grab, pack, and go — no fresh cooking required.
4. Get the Right Gear
The right tools make everything easier (and last longer).
- Stainless steel lunchboxes – durable, non-toxic, and basically indestructible
- A thermos – perfect for keeping yoghurt cold or sending hot lunches in winter
- A quality water bottle – one that actually keeps their water cool all day
- Lunch Bag - An insulated lunch bag to keep everything cool and spills contained
- Good gear = fewer leaks, fewer replacements, and fewer morning meltdowns.
5. Eat Fruit & Veg Seasonally
Seasonal produce is cheaper, tastier, and easier to find — and kids are more likely to enjoy it when it actually tastes good.
Build your lunchboxes around what’s in season and rotate fruits and veggies as the months change. It keeps things fresh without you having to reinvent the wheel.
6. Repetition Is Totally Okay
This one’s big: you do not need a brand-new lunchbox menu every day.
Kids love familiarity. If they’re happy eating the same wrap three times a week, let it be. Repetition reduces decision fatigue for you and builds consistency for them. Win-win.
A Gentle Reminder
Lunchboxes don’t need to be Pinterest-perfect. They just need to be packed with enough food, a bit of love, and zero guilt. Some days will be homemade bliss. Some days will be crackers, fruit, and a muesli bar. All of it counts. You’re doing a great job — even on the rushed, messy, “what’s left in the fridge?” mornings.
Chi Shurn Lo
“Just a dad”
Co-host of Beyond the Balls podcast and talented home chef.
Follow Chi:
@beyondtheballs podcast
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