“I do feel a lot of guilt about the lunchboxes”: Exploring caregiver perceptions and experiences of packing school lunches

This study highlights the significant demands of lunchbox packing, as caregivers navigate multiple pressures from societal expectations, logistical challenges, and children's preferences with limited support. Participants found measuring up to lunchbox ideals challenging, feeling they must justify and manage their approaches accordingly. These findings emphasise the need for systemic approaches to better recognise and support the undervalued and complex work required to feed children on school days.

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Publication Details

Journal
Appetite
Published
2026-01-06
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2026.108441
Citations
2
Primary Topic
Early Childhood Education and Development
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
385.39
Controls
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article

“I do feel a lot of guilt about the lunchboxes”: Exploring caregiver perceptions and experiences of packing school lunches

Georgia Middleton, Crystal Seow, Brittany J. Johnson, Jennifer Black
2 citations
Appetite
Early Childhood Education and Development
385.39
article

“I do feel a lot of guilt about the lunchboxes”: Exploring caregiver perceptions and experiences of packing school lunches

Georgia Middleton, Crystal Seow, Brittany J. Johnson, Jennifer Black
article en
2 citations

Abstract

This study highlights the significant demands of lunchbox packing, as caregivers navigate multiple pressures from societal expectations, logistical challenges, and children's preferences with limited support. Participants found measuring up to lunchbox ideals challenging, feeling they must justify and manage their approaches accordingly. These findings emphasise the need for systemic approaches to better recognise and support the undervalued and complex work required to feed children on school days.

AppetiteVol. 220
University of British Columbia (CA), Flinders University (AU)
Openalex Percentile: Top 0%
Early Childhood Education and Development
385.39
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