The perks of sending lunch box notes with your child's PB&J

Why sending lunch box notes to kids matters

Lunch box notes are all over social media, but they're way more than a viral trend. They can offer lifelong benefits, too. Whether it's a simple "I love you" or a positive affirmation, lunch box notes remind kids that they're loved and valued, which can have profoundly positive effects on the brain Don't worry: Even if kids think it’s cheesy, they can still reap the benefits.

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Lunch box notes and self-esteem go together like PB&J

Knowing that you’re thinking of them during the day is like another brick in your child’s wall of confidence — it has major self-esteem-strengthening benefits. It's also an excellent chance for parents to give mini pep talks and confidence boosts. 

But it goes even deeper. Experts say these notes can skyrocket a kid's self-esteem in ways that benefit them well into adulthood. So yes, a little note can make a huge difference in how kids see themselves.

How to do lunch box notes with minimal cringe:

• Keep it positive. This isn't the time to bring up last night's epic meltdown in the candy aisle.

• Avoid “diet culture” talk. Resist the temptation to say, "Eat all your veggies" or "No sweets today!" Seize the opportunity to boost and celebrate who your kids are right now, not what they should aspire to. 

• Be specific. Instead of a generic "Good luck on your test!" try something personal like, "You've been studying so hard for this math test. I believe in you!"

• Use humor. A well-placed pun or joke can brighten a gray day. Share an inside joke or a funny story to inspire a smile.

Elevating your notes game to MVP status:

You can even use lunch box notes as learning opportunities. Sneak in a few bucks to teach your kids about money and math. A note like, "Your budget is $1 for milk and $2 for snacks" can kick off a meaningful conversation about managing money, spending, and saving.

 Lunch box notes are more than just cute. They make it easy to connect with your child even when you’re not together.

CTA: Speaking of teaching kids about money, the Greenlight Learning Center has tons of fresh ideas about kids, money, and parenting.