The ability to do for ourselves and think for ourselves is one of the higher attributes for which we all strive. Including children in everyday activities and showing them how to complete daily routine tasks is the perfect way to help them build independence. The activity of preparing one’s own lunch provides a perfect opportunity to talk to your child about nutrition and what is meant by a balanced diet.
Using a picture of the food pyramid can be helpful, and your child can refer to the picture himself independently. Begin by packing the lunches together and gradually allow your child to take on more responsibility.
I would recommend packing the lunch the night before. First, prepare the environment by keeping items to be selected in places where your child can reach them. A bowl of fruit on the counter with an available stool, or on a lower shelf in the refrigerator, can be a handy place for children to access. Putting their available choices in bowls or bins separated by food groups is easy and your child can help. Children love to sort and select.
Children as young as 4 and 5 years old can be shown how to pour liquid into a thermos, as well as scraping a carrot, washing, and cutting celery, and spreading peanut butter and other spreadable foods on bread.
These are common “practical life” activities in Montessori preschool-kindergarten classes.
If you are making a sandwich or wrapping something in foil, or even sealing a plastic baggie, demonstrate and break down each task into easy steps. Always allot enough time to do this. Therefore, I recommend packing lunches the night before. Finishing a complete cycle is important too, so have your children clean out their lunchboxes at the end of the day. When your children need help, be sure to offer just enough assistance for them to take the next step independently.