The most exciting part about Spring Break for any kid, no matter their plans, is staying home from school. However, for parents, especially those busy at work, the hardest part is knowing your child will be home without knowing what to feed them.
With services like meal delivery available, it can be easier to trust your kids and teens at home without fear they’ll make a mess, but that’s not always the most budget-friendly option. Luckily, not every solution has to be one that will break the bank, and just because it's cost-effective doesn't mean it has to be boring.
As they get older and become more capable and comfortable in the kitchen, it’s easier to trust that they can look after themselves. So here are some easy ideas for meals your kids and teens can make on their own during Spring break and ways to make them more exciting.
Sandwiches
As a childhood staple, sandwiches are one of the obvious choices. While they can seem boring, if your child doesn’t mind trying new combinations, there is a chance to make these easy meals more exciting and less repetitive.
For the teens who live on peanut butter and jellies, see if they’re willing to try new flavors of jelly like blackberry or almond butter instead of peanut butter.
For the teens who like lunch meat, try offering them a new spread like chipotle mayonnaise, making a big batch of sliders using Hawaiian rolls, or adding an extra element for crunch like arugula, sprouts, or maybe even their favorite chip.
Wraps
While wraps can be very similar to sandwiches, they can also be unique in their own right. Sandwich meats like turkey and ham are very common but wraps still offer some variety in terms of vessels.
Branching out in terms of fillings can make these exciting for kids at home. Try using chicken tenders and a Caesar salad kit to recreate last year's viral chicken salad wrap or using hazelnut spread and fruit for a sweet treat instead.
Quesadillas
With just two tortillas and cheese, kids can easily put together a simple, filling meal that can easily be heated in the microwave. Or, they don't have to be heated.
Since they're easily customizable, a variety of meat and toppings can be used. Try bacon or sausage for a breakfast twist, or add vegetables for a healthier spin. Of course, plain cheese is always the best option, but having a little sour cream or a favorite jarred salsa on hand for dipping might not hurt.
Salads and bowls
Although not every child is a huge fan of salads and leafy greens, there are ways to make them more kid-friendly while making sure they’re getting a balanced meal. Salads and bowls don’t have to be boring, especially if you mix up the bases with different greens or rice to enhance the experience.
One of the biggest benefits of salads and bowls, like taco or rice bowls, is that they are easy to fit to your child’s tastes. Only buy the toppings and ingredients you know they’ll enjoy.
While they can help round out the bowl, you don’t have to try and force veggies on the children if they don’t want them. With even just a simple rice and ground beef base, kids can turn their bowls into anything from an Asian inspired beef bowl to a fully loaded taco salad or whatever they want.
Smoothies
A smoothie may not be a complete meal to everyone, but it can be a great breakfast or snack, especially for kids. They’re easy to make in the blender and can also be quite nutritious, especially if your kids don’t mind ingredients like spinach or Greek yogurt for added protein.
With a little less liquid for a thicker consistency, smoothie bowls are also a quick and easy meal. They can withstand numerous toppings and sauces. Adding peanut butter or fresh berries can be a great way to fortify the bowl and add fiber.
Pasta
Pasta doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a pack of noodles and jar of sauce, it is one of the easiest meals to make, as well as accessorize or jazz up. Kids can add any leftover meat or toss in extras like pepperoni.
Pasta can be especially resourceful because it tends to be a meal that keeps very well. It can be made in advance and reheated later as leftovers.
Pizza variations
For pizza variations, think pizza English muffins, bagels, naan or even French bread. When it comes to pizza, most days kids don’t care what the base is as long as it resembles pizza. With a carb base, a bag of shredded cheese, pepperonis, and your favorite jarred sauce, these pizzas are quick and easy to throw together
If you want healthier pizzas, try offering a variety of toppings like vegetables. Or if you’re looking to go less traditional, try buying Alfredo sauce for the base or even going with breakfast pizza.
There are plenty of different ways to approach meals during Spring break. The kitchen is open and there's plenty to eat.