When it comes to packing school lunches, sharing is caring. And now that everyone is back at school, there’s no end to needing tips to get us through the year. We asked savvy moms across the web to share how they stay organized, find inspiring lunch ideas, and get their kids to actually eat their entire lunch. Here they reveal their best lunch survival hacks. What tips would you add?

1. Give them a choice
Bay Area mama, Lisa Jackson of Good on Paper tells us that her son's lunchbox usually comes back empty when she gives him a choice of food.

2. Create a snack bin
Make grabbing snacks as convenient as possible. With a snack bin busy mornings become a bit less hectic says Samantha McBride. Pro tip from Samantha: keep the snack bin out of your kids' reach!

3. Pack ahead
Busy mom Dana Leigh says her method to the lunchtime madness is to pack her kids' lunches the day before. She reveals, "I have found it easiest to pack lunches for the next day the minute my kids walk in the door from school! They empty out and clean their lunch boxes and load them up with the next day's lunch. Our evenings and mornings are hectic so it's nice to take packing lunches out of the equation during the busiest times of the day!"

4. Teamwork
Getting out the door on time with lunches in hand is a team effort says mom of four, Renee Hill. By asking her girls to pitch in, Renee teaches her family responsibility and as a bonus, she buys herself a few more minutes to sip her morning coffee!

5. Add a little treat
Packing a lunch EVERYSINGLEDAY is probably one of the most challenging parts of the school year. Chelsea Andrews divulges one of her essential tips to streamline lunches for her picky eater. She surprises her kiddo with a treat in her lunchbox, which makes her little scholar's lunches a bit more exciting. 

6. Put your kids to work
Ken Kinzie and April Riehm are all about empowering their kids to make their own lunches. They find that their kids are more likely to eat lunches that they made themselves.

7. Trust that your kids are capable
We love Marlynn Jayme Schotland's perspective: your kids are more capable than they let on. She gives her kids tasks like washing fruit to picking out juice boxes to help guide their independence and as a bonus, it helps make her family's mornings a bit less hectic.

8. Prepare Everything on Sunday
Kendra Stanton's pro tip: pack the entire week on Sunday. She says this will save you time, energy and may even prevent some fine lines in the future!

9. Let your picky eater make the decisions
Picky eaters happen to the best of us. Sara Olsher's daughter has a long history of picky eating. To help her daughter finish up her lunches, Sara gives C a choice by letting her choose her lunchbox and what goes in it.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice Dinner

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This is quite possibly one of the most popular one-pot dinners out there, and this version from Iowa Girl Eats is perfection. Halfway between a soup and a risotto, it’s pure comfort food. It takes about an hour, but the prep work is just 15 minutes, so once you get it into your Dutch oven, it’s practically done.

One-Pot Mac and Cheese

If there’s one thing we know, it’s that kids love mac and cheese. This homemade version from Gimme Some Oven is made with just six ingredients and is ready in just 30 minutes. That’s what we call a one-pot dinner delight!

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Okay, so technically, this is a one-pan dinner, not a one-pot dinner, but you’re still using one piece of cookware, and the result is so tasty that we couldn’t resist. Made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet recipe from Cook the Story will be an instant hit with your crew.

One-Pot Baked Potato Soup

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When it comes to one-pot meals, soup is a classic (and a kid favorite). This potato soup from Sweet and Savory Meals has all the good things like bacon, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Even better, it can be made in an Instant Pot. If you’d rather take your time, check out her slow cooker version here. 

Easy One-Pot Baked Chicken and Rice Pilaf

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Juicy chicken thighs and tasty rice come together in this easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner. Get the recipe from The Wooden Skillet.

One-Pan Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

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This one-pan pork chop recipe from The Chunky Chef is lighter and healthier than a lot of pork chop recipes out there, and it doesn’t skimp on flavor. Even better, it comes together in 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal idea.

Beef Stir Fry

You can’t go wrong with a lightning-fast stir fry, and this version from Spend with Pennies is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Everything cooks together in one pan, you can adapt ingredients depending on your family's preferences, and the flavorful soy-based sauce is light but delicious. 

Greek Dutch Oven Roast Chicken

Sunday dinner just got even better thanks to this drool-worthy recipe from The Greek Foodie A whole roast chicken might sound like a daunting project, but it’s an easy one-pot meal to pull together. Plus, since there are potatoes at the bottom of the pot to catch all the chicken juices, you don’t need to worry about making separate sides. 

Chicken Parmesan Pasta

We’re always craving chicken parmesan, but it’s a ton of work to make the traditional version with breaded cutlets. That’s why we love this recipe from Erin Lives Whole—you get all those delicious flavors with a fraction of the effort. 

Veggie Pasta One Pot Wonder

It makes sense that if you cook pasta in water, you can switch out the water for stock, add chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices and the pasta will cook just as well with the bonus of a self-made sauce. That's what's going in this super simple veggie pasta dish featured in our archives. Garnish with grated cheese, and dinner's done.

Crock Pot Sweet Pork

If you don't have a Crock Pot, this sweet pork recipe from our archives might be the incentive you need to get one. With three simple ingredients in one pot, it works great when you've been raced off your feet and want an easy dinner option. Plus, it makes great leftovers. Serve with salsa and salad, and you're done.

Skillet Steak and Potatoes

Steak and potatoes are a staple almost everyone (even picky eaters) will like, and this version from Carlsbad Cravings comes together in just 30 minutes. Plus, the garlic herb butter gives it something special. Serve with your kids' favorite veggies and you'll have a hearty and easy one-pot dinner.

Related: 19 One-Pot Pasta Recipes That Keep Dirty Dishes to a Minimum

Mexican Chicken and Rice

Here's an easy one-pot dinner you can make with pantry staples. The dish from Erin Clarke at Well Plated uses canned black beans, canned diced tomatoes, and brown rice. You'll also need some fresh veggies, but the recipe is super versatile, so use what you have. Skip the jalapeño if that's too much for the little ones, and top with shredded cheese, avocado, salsa, and sour cream for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Lemony Greek Chicken

A dish of braised chicken thighs that takes little effort and includes sautéed onions and potatoes must be one of the best ways to end a long day. The only fiddly bit is flipping the meat when you sear it at the beginning, the rest is easy as pie. The recipe from Boulder Locavore has a Greek twist with feta and olives but you can always switch out the olives for raisins if you think the kids will prefer a sweeter taste.

Quick One Pot Beef Stew

It's hard to beat a hearty and comforting beef stew and this dish from NerdyMamma is a real crowd-pleaser. The ground beef is browned with fresh or canned veggies and mixed with tomato sauce for a quick weekday dinner in one pot. Head to NerdyMamma for the recipe and serve with crackers or cornbread.

One-Pot Coconut Chicken and Rice

A simple recipe bursting with flavor makes for one delicious dish, courtesy of Emily over at One Lovely Life. In under 30 minutes, you'll have a chicken and rice dish your family will be begging you to make at least once a week.  

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken

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Cream, garlic, and chicken all come together in this savory and easy one-pot meal that’s guaranteed to delight everyone in your home. If you’ve got kids who don’t love sauce, set aside a piece of chicken and serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Get the recipe from Carlsbad Cravings.

30-Minute Shrimp, Peas, and Rice

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A 30-minute easy one-pot dinner that requires zero chopping, tastes great, and can be doubled for larger families? Yes, please! This shrimp meal from Skinny Taste will be an immediate favorite.

Homemade Hamburger Helper

If this was a staple one-pot dinner when you were a kid, this version from The Forked Spoon will immediately be a favorite. It’s made with real ingredients, can be frozen as a make-ahead meal, and only takes 30 minutes from start to finish.

Sheet Pan Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

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The ultimate comfort food might have just gotten easier. By using a sheet pan, your family can customize their grilled cheese and you can make more than one at once. Get more details at Food for a Year.

Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Pork Tenderloin

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What is it about pork tenderloin that makes it a perfect dinner for a cozy night at home? This recipe from No. 2 Pencil includes all the sides and only takes 25 minutes in the oven.

Teriyaki Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

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If there’s one thing (almost) every kid likes, it’s teriyaki chicken. This easy sheet pan dinner from Six Sisters Stuff calls for veggies too, but you can steam them for picky eaters or just skip them together.

Sheet Pan Smashburgers

Smashburgers you can make without a grill? We like the sound of that! This version of a hamburger is flatter than others, which gives it a crispy edge and locks in flavor. With this recipe from The View from Great Island, you can make it all in your oven in no time. 

Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thighs

For a quick and easy dinner that looks like you've spent a lot of time in the kitchen (Shhhh! We won't tell!), try these flavorful lemon rosemary sheet pan chicken thighs with vegetables from Boulder Locavore. You won't even have to pre-marinate.  

Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner

This recipe will get dinner on the table in 30 minutes! This salmon sheet pan dinner from Weelicious is delicious and so easy to clean up after a long day. 

Sheet Pan Nachos

This recipe from Cait’s Plate is bound to be an instant favorite with your crew. You can customize the toppings to fit your family’s tastes, while still getting in plenty of veggies and protein. 

Sausage and Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner

This Oktoberfest-inspired kid friendly sheet pan dinner from The Rustic Foodie is a year-round favorite. The smoked sausage pairs beautifully with red potatoes, and a tangy mustard glaze brings everything together. 

Shrimp Fajitas

This lightning-fast dish from Meal Prep on Fleek is the perfect pick for busy weeknights. The shrimp and veggies cook up in less than 10 minutes and pair perfectly with a fresh pico de gallo and warm tortillas. 

Related: 10 Ways to Get Dinner on the Table Faster

Chicken Shawarma

You can’t go wrong with this crowd-pleasing shawarma recipe from Inquiring Chef. The well-seasoned marinade makes the chicken super delicious, and your little ones can jazz it up at the table with toppings like tzatziki sauce, veggies, and hummus.

Caprese Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Pretend you’re in Italy for the evening with this delish idea from Nicole’s Tasting Spoon. Like a Caprese salad, melty fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil pair perfectly with chicken breast.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Sausage and Broccoli

Keep things simple and healthy with this great recipe from Kalyn’s Kitchen. Sweet potatoes, broccoli, and sausage go well together, especially when you add a balsamic glaze to the equation.

Related: 25 Easy Crock Pot Recipes to Try This Fall

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Sesame oil is the pantry item you'll need for this tray bake from The Seasoned Mom. It combines pineapples, peppers, and sweet potatoes for a fresh, sweet roast of Hawaiian flavors. When you're looking for an easy sheet pan dinner to lift the family's spirits, this is it. 

Chicken Enchilada Sweet Potato Fries

These Mexican chicken enchilada fries might sound like a side dish but topped with chicken, black beans, and corn, they're likely to become a filling family favorite. The good news is that the tray can be made a few hours ahead of time and reheated to crisp up when everyone's ready to eat. Get the recipe from Well Plated, and skip the jalapeño to make it an extra kid friendly sheet pan dinner. 

Bacon Potato Skins

The humble baked potato goes a long way to filling empty tummies (check out this version in our archives). You can take it a step further with this irresistible combination of bacon and cheese in crunchy potato skins from Pinch of Yum. The kids won't even care that there's kale pesto involved! Don't be put off by the idea of scooping out and refilling potato skins—save the mash for later in the week—and treat the family to a baked potato meets pizza feast. Yum!

Baking Sheet Paella

One of our favorite sheet pan dinners is this paella dish from A Spicy Perspective. Fresh shrimp, chorizo, peas, and easy-cook rice all layer up to make a meal the family will love. It's easy and delicious, plus it can be cooked and prepped in less than 30 minutes. Switch out the chorizo for a mild sausage alternative if the kids aren't into hotter flavors. 

Chinese Five Spice Pork Chops

Marinated pork chops are the star attraction in this sheet pan dinner; they're complemented by roasted broccoli and fresh pineapple chunks. The only tricky bit is getting prepped with the marinade the night before, but other than that, this recipe from Aggie's Kitchen couldn't be easier—dinner will be ready in 20 minutes.

Chicken Fajitas

Kids will love these tasty sheet pan chicken fajitas from Boulder Locavore! Just 20 minutes of cooking time, and dinner can go straight from the oven to the table. Just wrap it in tortillas, and you're good to go. 

Pizza from Scratch

Don't be put off by the idea of making pizza from scratch—this one shapes up in an hour and will be worth the extra effort. The View From Great Island will get you going on this recipe, and then you can add your family's favorite toppings.

Parchment Paper Fish

This recipe from Weelicious calls for the ingredients to be cooked in a parchment paper envelope, so the pan doesn't even need washing! It can also be adapted for different tastes, as you can swap out the Asian flavors of ginger and sesame for basil and tomatoes or add different veggies or cooked grains—whatever the kids will eat. The contents of the bag will be gently steamed for an easy dinner. 

Related: 10 Easy Dinners You Can Make for Less than $15

Pesto Chicken and Vegetables

Chicken sheet pan dinners come in so many forms, and this one from  NeighborFood can be in your oven in less than 15 minutes. Then, 45 minutes later, the dishes are done and dinner's ready. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, and pesto are the secrets here. 

One Sheet Pan Shrimp and Vegetable Dinner

This shrimp and veggie sheet pan dinner from Weelicious is delicious and easy! Everyone will love it and kids will love to help make it. This recipe is great for getting everyone together in the kitchen. 

Sheet Pan Sausage with Cabbage and Apples

This tasty sausage with cabbage and apples recipe from Weelicious is simple to make and easy to clean up. Your family will love to eat this and your kids can help make it!

Breakfast Ideas

Overnight Oats

 

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The trick to this recipe from @myhealthydish is that you make it ahead of time. Stick it in the fridge before bed and wake up to a filling breakfast that appears like magic.

Perfect Scrambled Eggs

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Whip up a simple scrambled egg in under five minutes—@cookwithnabeela will show you how. Once you’ve perfected it, throw in veggies, cheeses, and herbs to flavor them the way you like. Our favorite is with French thyme.

Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookie

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Cookies for breakfast? Registered Dietician @preventionrd gives the green light to these that include apples, carrots, and oatmeal. Make a batch to get you through the week (and beyond).

Smashed Avocado & Poached Eggs

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Avocado toast is always an easy one for breakfast or lunch, and this version created by @foodandhomesa fits the bill. The frozen peas add a little pop that’s unexpected, and although this recipe includes homemade spinach soda bread, we’re here to tell you it’ll taste just as good on whatever bread you’ve got.

Acai Bowl

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The great thing about acai bowls is that you can top them with just about anything you’d like. Bananas, granola, and honey are pretty standard, but feel free to scoop in a nut butter for extra protein or heap on the fresh fruit when it’s in season. Find out how to make this one @chelseasmessyapron.

Lunch Ideas

Celery Soup

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This simple soup from @atasteofmadness1 can be made in under 30 minutes with just six ingredients (we’re betting most are already in your fridge). Our tip? If you’re not into transferring hot liquid into your blender, use an immersion blender instead.

Spinach Banana Smoothie

 

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If you’ve got a blender, you can whip up one of our favorite easy meals for moms—a spinach banana smoothie from @realsimplegood. Boost the protein by adding hemp hearts and throw in some extra healthy fats with half an avocado—the perfect fuel to get new moms through the day.

Obsessively Good Avocado Cucumber Salad

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A few fresh ingredients and the time to chop them all up is what it takes to make @smittenkitchen‘s avocado cucumber salad (and yes, it’s obsessively good). We love that you can use the leftover avocado to make it for lunch the next day, too.

Spaghetti Salad

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Make this tasty salad created by @theveiwfromgreatisland for yourself for lunch and you’ll have plenty leftover for dinner. It combines crave-worthy carbs with tons of fresh veggies—a great excuse to hit the farmer’s market in the summer.

Dill Pickle Grilled Cheese

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If you didn’t get too many of these during your pregnancy cravings, you’ll love them on this inventive grilled cheese sandwich @pitchforkfoodie dreamed up. Really, you could top this grilled cheese with just about anything and it would be good.

Dinner Ideas

Beef Lettuce Wraps

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What should every mom’s go-to dinner include? Something quick and something healthy. That’s what we love about these beef lettuce wraps from @momsdish. Putting them together is as simple as browning your protein (ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even tofu are simple substitutes to make) and assembling the rest of the ingredients atop a fresh bib lettuce leaf. Roll and enjoy.

Vegetable Pancakes

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What’s not to love about this simple way to use up leftover veggies from @tiffy.cooks? Take a deep dive in the fridge (yep, all the way to the back) hunting for half-finished carrots, cabbage, peppers, cucumbers, potatoes—whatever is taking up space. Shred, squeeze, and pan-fry them before topping with a tasty sauce.

Greek-Inspired Hump Day Salad

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It doesn’t have to be Wednesday to make this Hump Day dish we found @easy_salad_recipes, but it doesn’t hurt. Open a bag of lettuce, toss on the toppings, and you’ve got yourself a healthy meal in minutes. Hint: pickle red onion on your countertop by placing sliced red onions in vinegar, then adding a bit of salt and sugar. They should be ready in about 30 minutes.

Lemon Rosemary Chicken

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Pick up a pack of boneless, skinless chicken breasts from the store (or pull them from the freezer in the morning) to make this meal for moms from @themediterraneandish. Season them, drizzle some olive oil on top, then throw it in the oven. If you’re feeling really fancy, add a bag salad to this meal.

Chipotle Chicken Tostadas

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Ground chicken is the base for this easy-to-assemble recipe from @preventionrd, but you can easily sub ground turkey if it’s easier to find. The avocado and pineapple salsa add a little something extra—a tropical flair that’ll make you feel like you’re on vacation.

Crock Pot White Chicken Chili

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Who doesn’t love a meal you can start around lunch time and enjoy five hours later for dinner? This simple white chicken chili by @damn_delicious takes about 10 minutes to put together. The rest is up to your crock pot. Note: if you’re nursing or just want to avoid spicy foods, cut down on the green chilies.

Squash & Chickpea Moroccan Stew

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Dicing the potatoes is probably the heaviest lift in this hearty recipe from @smittenkitchen, but the rest of the ingredients don’t involve too much prep. Serve it over couscous or not—it’s up to you. Either way, you’ll have leftovers to enjoy the next day.

There is nothing more frustrating than preparing meals for your little person and then they refuse to eat any of it!

I finally decided to find someone who could help me. My friend, the expert (also a daycare and preschool teacher for over 30 years), thankfully taught me a genius hack that completely changed what my toddler would try in a matter of days. Not only that, but this simple yet oh-so-smart game somehow made my picky kiddo think that trying new foods was so much fun.

How Do You Play?

Introduce the game at a family meal, like dinnertime, and be sure to have everyone play it. This way, your kid will be eager to partake by the time their turn rolls around.

Let’s say the new food is to try a piece of cucumber. Give everyone (parents included) a bite-sized piece. By making it the size of one toddler bite, you increase your chances of them actually eating it (and not spitting it back out).

Now, before starting to eat dinner, say, “Now we get to play the taste game.” The key is for you and any other adults to act very excited. Explain that everyone is going to try the same new food. “We are all going to try cucumber and decide what it tastes like.” Have a parent go first. Eat the food, make some funny faces, and describe the taste (cold, kind of crunchy, sour, sweet, etc.).

Related: 4 Things NOT to Say to a Picky Eater

Remember: fun and silly. Kids love to make silly faces and watch you do the same, so use this to your advantage. Ask questions about taste and texture. Is it sour? Is it crunchy? Also, ask silly questions like, “Does the beet taste pinkalicious or purple-y?”

Then, ask who is next. Your toddler might decide they want to go next. Another tactic that you can use is when you ask, “Who wants to go next?” and have the other parent get overly enthusiastic about going next. Then tell the parent they have to wait because it’s (toddler’s name) turn. This will make your toddler feel very special. Additionally, this game gives them positive attention from their parents. You all watch and wait to see what the child decides it tastes like.

Lastly, don’t force it. You might have to play the game a few times to get your toddler to want to partake. Start with foods they will sometimes eat for you, and then once they’re really into the game, go for harder ones. If need be, call in the reinforcements. Have the grandparents over and have them play the game with you. If your toddler idolizes an older kid or a friend, then have them come play the game, too. It’s amazing what a little peer pressure can do.

Before you know it, they’ll be eating and trying all kinds of foods. They might even remind you to play the game. My toddler now asks at dinner, “What new food are we trying?”

Why Does It Work?

It might seem like just a game, but what you’re actually doing is something that you probably do in other aspects of your parenting. With toddlers and little kids, a big part of parenting is helping them understand new experiences and the emotions that come along with them.

This game is the same thing. By playing it with them, you show them that everyone tries new foods. You react in all types of ways by making funny faces. When kids try a new food and aren’t too sure of the taste or texture, you want them to know that a range of responses is okay. Instead of only two outcomes—you either like the food or you don’t—you’re teaching them that the right response is whatever they feel.

So simple but ingenious because when the goal changes from getting them to like a new food to instead describing it, then it’s okay for it to be anything. Even gross.

Consisting of 2,400 sets of twins (identical and non-identical) from England and Wales, beginning at 16 months and concluding at 13 years, according to Science Daily, the study found that “genetic differences in the population accounted for 60% of the variation in food fussiness at 16 months, rising to 74% and over between the ages of three and 13.” Wow.

The study also found that fussy eating habits weren’t as similar for the non-identical twins as the identical twins, pointing towards the likelihood that genetics plays a larger role than environmental factors. In other words, your picky eater might be predisposed to be exactly that, regardless of what you put on their plate or what tactics you use to get them to try new foods.

“We hope our finding that fussy eating is largely innate may help to alleviate parental blame. This behavior is not a result of parenting,” said lead author Dr Zeynep Nas.

Related: 4 Things NOT to Say to a Picky Eater

So, yay, it’s not our fault our kids only eat chicken nuggets and mac and cheese! Right? Not so fast. It’s important to note that these findings don’t mean other factors are completely off the table. The study also found that nurture plays a role, too, as noted in Science Daily. Kids are also influenced—to a degree—by their surroundings as they grow up. “Identical twin pairs became more different to each other in their fussy eating as they got older, indicating an increase in the role of unique environmental factors at older ages.” So, yes, some of this might be beyond your control, but that doesn’t mean you should give up trying to work with your picky eater.

“Although fussy eating has a strong genetic component and can extend beyond early childhood, this doesn’t mean it is fixed. Parents can continue to support their children to eat a wide variety of foods throughout childhood and into adolescence, but peers and friends might become a more important influence on children’s diets as they reach their teens,” said senior author Dr Alison Fildes.

Related: 19 High-Protein Meals for Picky Eaters

Something else to note: most of the survey participants were upper-class white children from the UK (meaning this sample doesn’t account for important cultural and socioeconomic factors). Nevertheless, it’s a great start to investigating the roots of food fussiness. So don’t lose heart, keep offering your kids different foods, and know that some picky eating issues are simply innate.

Chocolate Cherry Popsicles

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How delicious do these chocolate cherry pops look?! Made with Greek yogurt and fresh cherries, get this popsicle recipe from Parsley and Icing.

Rainbow Popsicles

Your kiddos will go gaga for the out-of-this-world colors of these rainbow popsicles from The First Year Blog. There are a whopping seven layers and each sports a ton of fruit and flavor. The result looks like a truly tasty tie-dyed treat!

Shirley Temple Popsicles

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Oh, the thrill of being a kid and sipping a Shirley Temple! This idea from Candy Jar Chronicle takes that same classic taste and turns it into a frozen treat.

Raspberry Cheesecake Popsicles

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Take the taste of tart summer berries, combine it with creamy cheesecake and you’ve got a homemade popsicle perfect for a warm evening.

Ripe Peach Popsicles

Need a great way to use up ripe (or slightly over-ripe) peaches? Bookmark these fruit popsicles, STAT! They're made from pureed fresh peaches and are basically summertime on a stick. Get the recipe from The View from Great Island.

Pumpkin Pie Popsicle

Get a taste of autumn any ol' time with popsicles that pack in the pumpkin flavor. They also include Greek yogurt and granola, which means you could even have a popsicle for breakfast. Get the recipe from Salt & Lavender.

Lava Flow Popsicles

You're gonna love these layers! Just picture this: creamy pineapple swirled with a fresh strawberry puree and no dyes or refined sugar. Best of all, they're the perfect combo of easy, pretty, and delicious. For the recipe, flow on over to One Lovely Life.

Healthy Raspberry Sorbet Popsicles

These beauties from One Lovely Life really pop with bright raspberry flavor! The kiddos will love covering them in chocolate magic shell and their fave toppings, but don't worry—they look fancy but are simple to whip up.

Coconut Water Pineapple Popsicles

Are you ready to get refreshed? Boulder Locavore’s Coconut Water Pineapple Popsicles are the ultimate way to hydrate this summer. Along with the coconut water, these pops also have pineapple juice, lime juice, and a handful of raspberries. They’re vegan, tasty, and (literally) cool.

 

Related: New Trader Joe’s Summer Products We’re Obsessed With

Healthy Greek Yogurt Fudge Pops

Nostalgia alert! If there’s a special place in your heart for melty, chocolatey fudgesicles, you need to try this recipe from Baker by Nature. These pops have that same taste you know and love, with a healthy twist.

 

Easy Mini Chocolate Magnum Bars

Confession: we’re obsessed with these homemade Magnum bars from A Taste of Madness. They include three simple ingredients, including melted vanilla ice cream, and are so easy to whip up.

 

Funfetti Creamsicles

These cheerful funfetti creamsicles from Garlic My Soul are the perfect treat for a hot summer's day. Made with coconut cream, orange juice, honey, and of course, funfetti sprinkles, the creamy tanginess will be a hit. 

Strawberry Watermelon Agua Fresca Popsicles

Kick up your popsicle game with these strawberry watermelon refreshers from Bitz & Giggles. On a hot day, nothing says hydration like watermelon, this time blended with sweet strawberries and tangy lime. 

Root Beer Float Popsicles

A root beer float in popsicle form? We’re in! This popsicle recipe from Boulder Locavore is basically your fave soda-and-ice-cream treat, poured into your fave molds. Genius? We think so.

Coconut Pineapple Yogurt Pops

When you can’t grab the fam and head to Hawaii, the next best thing is one oofo these tropical popsicles from Recipe Runner. They’re the perfect combo of creamy and icy—perfect for higher temps and hungry tummies.

 

Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Mousse Pops

These chocolate peanut butter pops are the perfect deviation from fruit pops. Plus, they're the perfect treat for chocolate lovers to keep around! Try topping it off with some whipped cream or your favorite topping. You'll find this recipe at The Kitchen McCabe.

 

Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles

Any kid worth his salt knows that lemonade is pretty much a summer requirement. Add on the taste of fresh strawberries and tangy yogurt and you’ve got a refreshing match made in heaven. You can thank Pass the Sushi for this homemade popsicle inspiration.

 

Cookies and Coconut Cream Popsicles

What’s black and white and sweet all over? These Oreo-inspired popsicles from The View from Great Island! These fantabulous treats have honest-to-goodness whole cookies inside them, so every bite has the potential to be your favorite bite.

 

Triple Berry Paletas

Here’s the scoop on paletas: they’re Latin American ice pops that are usually made from fresh fruit. That means they’re extra refreshing and extra easy to make yourself. These Triple Berry Paletas from Lola Cocina fit the bill, and they can be customized to your kid’s palate with different berry combinations.

Sunrise Popsicles

Good news - these homemade popsicles are as yummy as they are pretty! Emily from One Lovely Life combines orange juice and strawberries to create these vibrant pops.

Dairy-free Patriotic Popsicles

Just like the rocket pops from the ice cream truck, but way healthier, these patriotic popsicles will be a sure-fire hit at your summer BBQs. Get the recipe from Beth at Pass the Plants.

Cherry Lime Popsicles

This classic flavor combo comes together in a refreshing homemade popsicle that's perfect for cooling down in the summer heat. Erin from Food Fanatic breaks down how easy this recipe really is!

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

We’ve left out more obvious choices because we know you’re already a pro at grilled cheese, taco Tuesdays, quick eggs, and the like, but if you’re looking for other easy family dinner ideas, check out recipes that only take 30 minutes, our favorite air fryer recipes, and simple rotisserie chicken recipes perfect for weeknights.  Consider your meal plan done!

Creamy Tomato Tortellini with Pesto

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The base for this filling dish is cheese-filled tortellini, which is pretty much the most kid-friendly pasta around. Add some mini meatballs or sliced pre-cooked sausage if you want to up the protein in this dish.

5-Ingredient Lemon Chicken with Asparagus

Whether you go with chicken thighs or chicken breasts, this 5-ingredient recipe from Pinch of Yum is super flavorful and easy to make. The citrus from the lemon is mellowed out with honey to satisfy those picky palates.

Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

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We love how flavorful these lettuce wraps are. Butter lettuce works best, and you can serve it over rice for those picky ones in your family.

Easy Crockpot Ranch Chicken

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If your kid isn’t a Ranch fan yet, now is the time to indoctrinate them. This 4-ingredient recipe from The Cookie Rookie makes kid-friendly chicken in a veg-free sauce, so you’re more likely to avoid the mealtime tantrums.

5-Ingredient Coconut Curry

There’s something super comforting about this coconut curry from Pinch of Yum. It uses chickpeas instead of meat so that means it will come together super fast.

Paleo Gnocchi Bolognese

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Your family won’t even know that you’re using Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi as the base of this delicious dish. Get the recipe from Mary’s Whole Life.

5-Ingredient Zucchini Fritters

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This recipe is a great way to use up your summer bounty of zucchini. We suggest cooking them on your electric griddle if you have one.

Pa Amb Tomàquet (aka Catalan Tomato Bread)

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Any vehicle for including more ripe tomatoes in our lives is a must-try. Also, this bread looks like a fun way to get the kids in on the cooking action. Get the details on this 5-ingredient recipe over at Gimme Some Oven.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

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Not only does this recipe have only 5 ingredients, but it’s a one-pot wonder as well. Chicken thighs, Brussels sprouts, and garlic are the main players in this flavorful dish. Get the recipe from The Endless Meal.

5-Ingredient Trader Joe’s Branzino

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This recipe uses three of our favorite TJs items: branzino, lemony arugula salad kit, and frozen country potatoes.

One-Pot Pasta

One-pot meals are a weekday dinner staple, and this one from Kristine’s Kitchen Blog serves up sausage with pasta. Bonus: You don’t even need to drain the pasta as it cooks right in the sauce.

Lemon Butter Scallops

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Head over to Damn Delicious to snag this recipe that cooks up quickly and is great paired with asparagus or broccoli.

Quick Duck Stir Fry

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A stir fry is a great way to use up any veggies that might be sitting neglected at the bottom of your fridge. This 5-ingredient recipe from the BBC uses duck, but you could easily swap it for chicken if you prefer.

Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu

Our advice for this full-of-flavor recipe from Pinch of Yum is to double it. It’s that good.

Spaghetti Carbonara

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Any meal that starts with cooking up some bacon is destined for greatness, and this spaghetti carbonara from Damn Delicious is no exception.

Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

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You’ll get lots of flavor development in a short amount of time with this recipe from Amy + Jacky. We like to serve it on toasted ciabatta rolls topped with Swiss cheese.

Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala

@lainiecooks

4 ingredient Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala #traderjoes #traderjoesmeals #easydinner #chickentikkamasala

♬ vlog, chill out, calm daily life(1370843) – SUNNY HOOD STUDIO

Our biggest dinnertime hack is using Trader Joe’s items to create a meal that is full of flavor and short on cooking time. This chicken tikka masala is the perfect option when you need dinner on the table ASAP.

Viral Feta Pasta Bake

@kelseyoppenheim

Someone stop me from eating this daily #traderjoesfoodreviews #traderjoes #fetapasta #traderjoescookbook

♬ Jazz – Aylior

This recipe has been all over TikTok, and we understand the hype. Just throw some cherry tomatoes and feta in the oven to bake, and boil up some pasta to mix in at the end. What could be easier?

Cacio e Pepe

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We love that this pasta recipe is full of flavor but contains no visible vegetables that may turn your crew off dinner. Gimme Some Oven explains the easy steps to making this Italian favorite.

No-Fuss Prime Rib

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Save this recipe for the holidays when time is short. You’ll impress your guests with homemade prime rib, we know it.

Trader Joe’s Lobster Bisque Pasta

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Yes, this recipe uses Trader Joe’s lobster bisque to make the creamy sauce, and we are here for it. Click through for the recipe!

5-Ingredient Chicken Lo Mein

@kennedychugg

Replying to @user9761876775593 CHICKEN LO MEIN …or is this chow mein? I get so confused INGREDIENTS: ramen, chicken, veggies, soy sauce, oyster sauce Add seasoning to your chicken then fry on high heat. Remove and add veggies to pan. Boil noodles for 3 mins or package directions. Mix osyer sauce, a splash of soy sauce, ramen seasoning, and water. Combine everything and enjoy! If you want to jazz it up add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to your veggies when cooking! #budgetmeals #51030meals #ramennoodles #lomeim #chowmein #dinnerideas #easydinnerideas #cheapeasymeals

♬ Keep Dat Clean Radio Edit By iCandy – Soap Radio.

This is an easy (and cheap) way to make those ramen packets into a dinner the whole family will love.

5-Ingredient Chili

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We love a chili recipe that comes together in a flash. You can even sub in meatless crumbles if you’d like to make this recipe from Gimme Some Oven vegetarian.

If you’re looking for more summer dinner ideas, check out our favorite no-cook dinner ideas, the best grilling recipes, slow cooker chicken recipes perfect for summer, and the best Trader Joe’s foods to take to the cookout.

Pea and Bacon Pasta Salad

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It’s like their favorite pea and ham pasta, but served up cold. If you aren’t a huge fan of mayo, half the amount that goes in the dressing. Get the recipe from The Southern Lady Cooks. 

Chilled Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad

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While there might be some ingredients in this pasta salad recipe from Skinny Taste that aren’t super kid-friendly, you can easily separate some of the tortellini and shrimp to toss with the dressing for your little ones and make the regular version for the adults. FYI: It’s even better the day after you make it!

BLT Pasta Salad

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Bacon, lettuce, and tomato plus pasta? We are SO in! This BLT pasta salad recipe from Budget Bytes is simple to make, uses spinach instead of lettuce (less wilting is a bonus), and uses ranch dressing to top it off.

Kid-Friendly Greek Pasta Salad

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Plain Chicken‘s Greek pasta salad recipe is packed with flavor, which makes it perfect for a potluck or dinner at home. Fresh ingredients like tomato, basil, and lemon juice make this kid-friendly pasta salad a crowd pleasure and will transport you straight to Greece!

Strawberry and Chicken Pasta Salad

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This summer pasta salad from Recipe Runner is a perfect quick dinner idea. It’s a little sweet, a little tangy, and filled with protein. If you’ve got extra-picky eaters, separate everything and give them a dipping cup of dressing to try on the side.

Kid-Friendly Tri-Color Pasta Salad

This go-to kid-friendly pasta salad recipe is as easy as it comes. You can use cheese, olives, cucumber, or any other assortment of veggies. You can even swap regular pasta for tortellini. Get the recipe here. 

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

What do you get when you combine pasta and Caesar salad? This dish from Life Made Simple! It’s loaded with all the classic flavors you expect—crisp romaine, pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and lots of cheese.

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese is a great way to entice little ones to eat fresh veggies! Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil come together with the pasta shape of your choice in this recipe from Pip & Debby. You can't go wrong with this kid-friendly pasta salad, especially if you add chicken. 

Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

Oh, my, orzo! Here's why this pasta salad is a thing of beauty: it only has a few ingredients, the flavors are fresh and summery, and it's delicious cold or at room temperature. Add it as a barbecue side or serve it as the main course! Get the recipe here.

Pepperoni Pasta Salad

Do your little ones love pizza? Then this dish from Dear Crissy is sure to be an instant hit! It's got the all-important pepperoni, and you can customize it with additional "toppings" that usually grace your 'za. 

Garden Veggie Tortellini Pasta Salad

Tortellini is a kid favorite, so why not take a cue from Peas and Crayons and turn it into a delicious cold salad? Toss with homemade dressing and healthy veggies of your child's choice, and you're all set! 

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Looking for the most flavorful pasta salad around? Dive into this dish from Chelsea's Messy Apron, which has tons of veggies, an adaptable chili-lime dressing, and tons of summer corn! While this might not be a top hit with the kids, we couldn't help but include it because, trust us, the adults will want seconds.

Related: New Trader Joe’s Summer Products We’re Obsessed With

Nut-Free Basil Pesto Pasta

Pass the pesto! This nut-free sauce makes any pasta salad delicious and can be paired with all the additional ingredients you want. (Veggies? Cheese? Both?) It's a cinch to make—get the recipe here.

Broccoli Sausage Pasta Salad

Bring on the broccoli with this dish from Boulder Locavore! Kids will love the hearty sausage and the zesty dressing that takes the place of mayo in this recipe.

Thai Chicken Pasta Salad

Amp up an average summer barbecue! This pasta salad recipe from I Wash You Dry sports crisp veggies and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Bonus: It calls for ramen noodles and rotisserie chicken—no muss, no fuss! 

Poppy Seed Chicken and Grape Pasta Salad

Does your kiddo love grapes? Then it's time to bust out this great pasta salad recipe from Cooking Classy. It has a slightly sweet dressing and is a refreshing addition to a summer picnic. Note: if you have young children, cut the grapes into fourths. 

Spaghetti Salad

Chances are you have spaghetti in the pantry—and this idea from Dinner at the Zoo is the perfect use for it! It's also filled with crunchy vegetables for an extra healthy kick. 

Gluten-Free Picnic Macaroni Salad

Prepping for a picnic? Don't forget this gluten-free dish from Boulder Locavore! It's just like the old-school pasta salad you had when you were a kid and even sports healthy twists like grated carrots. 

Meat Lovers Pasta Salad

This deli-inspired salad from The View from Great Island is a great way to please the meat lovers in your family. You can also customize it with whatever meats you have in the fridge for an extra easy summer meal.

Easy Meals Preschoolers Can Prepare

Rainbow Fruit Kebabs

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Kids of any age can whip up fruit kabobs for an easy, healthy snack. For preschoolers, keep a bowl of cut-up fruit in the fridge (or buy a pre-chopped bowl as we do) and skewers on hand. When the hangries arrive, let your littles have fun making their fruit skewers. Extra points for dips like yogurt or whipped cream! Note: You can buy kid-friendly skewers without the sharp ends here.

Nutella or Peanut Butter & Banana on Bread

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Little hands will be able to put together an easy snack like this. Use any kind of bread (we like pita because it’s a little sturdier), smear with peanut butter or Nutella, then top with sliced bananas. This is a great option for preschoolers because the spread and bananas can be prepared using a non-sharp knife.

Related: 21 Easy Recipes That Even Picky Eaters Will Like

Fruit Parfaits

It can’t get much easier than combining yogurt, fruit, and maybe even granola (we prefer Nilla Wafers) into the easy snack that is a parfait. The great part is there’s no chopping required if you use small berries and each kid can customize their own.

Easy Meals Elementary School Kids Can Prepare

Quesadilla

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If your kids can use the microwave, they can whip up a quesadilla! Just layer cheese between two tortillas and microwave until the cheese is melted. This is a great option if you have multiple kids in the house who might prefer their toppings since everyone can take turns customizing their own ‘dilla.

Oatmeal

Whether it’s a pack of instant oatmeal or you trust your elementary-age kids on the stove, oatmeal is a great breakfast, snack, or lunch option they can make on their own. Add a dollop of peanut butter, sliced fruit, or chocolate chips to give it a whole new taste.

Nachos

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At the bare minimum, your kids can whip up a plate of nachos with just two ingredients (cheese & chips). If they want to get fancy, feel free to have them pile on the olives, pico, and anything else they want after a quick spin in the microwave.

Ramen

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Ramen is a great meal kids can make on themselves because you can either do a Cup Noodle and avoid the stove by heating water in a kettle, or use the brick Ramen option that cooks in just a few minutes. Either way, make sure your older kids are mature enough to handle using hot water in the kitchen.

Related: 20 Global Recipes Your Kids Should Try at Least Once

Easy Mac or Mac & Cheese

A picky eater’s dream, macaroni and cheese is a good meal option a kid can have in their arsenal. You can go the super easy route by buying Easy Mac, which can be made in the microwave, or teach your older kids how to navigate a stovetop recipe safely. Better yet, try out an Instant Pot version!

Bean & Cheese Burritos

Pop open a can of refried or black beans, heat on the stove or microwave, then combine with cheese in a tortilla. It’s one of the most simple meals kids can make. Get more tips from Chelsea’s Messy Apron.

Fruit Tacos

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If your kids go more for the sweet than the savory, these fruit tacos might be a good DIY meal, especially for breakfast.

Easy Meals Teens Can Prepare

Texas Toast Garlic Bread Pizza

If there’s one meal most kids will never turn down, it’s pizza. This recipe for Texas Toast garlic bread pizza from Rasa Malaysia lets them avoid making a mess by trying to flip and spin the dough. Just grab thick bread and top it with sauce, cheese, and toppings before putting it in the toaster oven or air fryer.

Turkey & Cheese Pinwheels

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The last thing any kid wants during the summer is a sandwich thanks to a school year long’s worth of lunches. Skip the bread with these turkey and cheese pinwheels which require some layering of ingredients, a quick roll up, and some slicing to give that fun shape. Your kids can make it with ham, roast beef, hummus, veggies, or just PB&J.

Old Man Bagel

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Can you kids toast their own bagel and add cream cheese? Sure. But can they make an Old Man Bagel that’s even more fulfilling? YES! All you need to do is top a toasted bagel with cream cheese, avocado, and some lemon pepper seasoning to give your breakfast, lunch, or snack (because really, we could eat a bagel any time of the day) a step up.

Smoothies

Breakfast, snack, or lunch—a smoothie is always a good option an older kiddo can whip up. So long as you keep the ingredients on hand like spinach, banana, and other frozen fruits and you teens know how to operate a blender safely, this is a great option they can do on their own. Check out our post on some great recipes here.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Kids who are comfortable using the stove can easily make this classic comfort food. With so many ways to change up the tastes (think different cheeses, extra filling like avocado or ham), it’s a meal older kids should master. Get tips on how to make the perfect sandwich at Alpha Mom.