Who hasn't given in the brown bag lunch blahs? Here are kid-proven ways to pep up lunches and still stick to the budget.

Expert: Grace Parisi, culinary expert - Meet Grace and our other design experts.

Some solutions:

• Ask the children what they like to eat and make variations.
  
• Take the kids shopping to have them pick out what they like to eat.
  
• Make a variety of small portions.
  
• Try Toasted Waffle Sandwiches made with peanut butter, apple slices and honey.
  
• Load celery with cream cheese and top with toasted sunflower seeds.
  
• Core an apple and fill the center with peanut butter and granola.
  
• Stash vegetables and dip in disposable Chinese take-out containers.
  
• Camping stores may offer unique alternatives for packing school lunches.

Resource

Food & Wine
www.foodandwine.com