Build a balanced lunchbox-cutting and sticking activity

Balanced lunchbox cutting and sticking activity for EYFS and Year 1, with 24 food pictures and a printable lunchbox template.

Children choose, cut out and stick food pictures into their own lunchbox. This simple activity encourages discussion about balanced meals, everyday foods and sometimes foods, while developing cutting skills and food vocabulary.

The familiar foods, clear illustrations and child-friendly labels make this an accessible addition to healthy eating topics.

What’s included?

• One large, blank lunchbox template with a name line.
• Two sheets containing 24 labelled food and drink pictures.
• Familiar choices including sandwiches, pasta, fruit, vegetables, yoghurt and water, alongside cake, crisps, chocolate and biscuits.
• Straight, dashed cutting lines around each picture.
• Cards approximately 5 × 5 cm, allowing six to fit comfortably inside the lunchbox.

Learning focus

• Exploring variety and balance in a lunchbox.
• Naming familiar foods and drinks.
• Explaining choices and listening to others.
• Developing scissor control and hand-eye coordination.

Ways to use

Ideal for EYFS and Year 1 healthy eating topics, PSHE discussions, small-group activities or adult-supported independent work. Encourage children to describe their lunchbox and discuss what they could add or swap, without labelling foods as “good” or “bad”.

Provide pre-cut pictures for children who need support, or extend the activity by asking children to explain their choices.

Printing and file details

Three-page A4 colour PDF. Print at 100% / actual size to keep the cards and lunchbox at the intended scale.