This is how buying lunch works in our school system:

• Parents deposit dollars into their child’s lunch account at school.
• Every time a kid buys lunch, the cost is subtracted from the balance.
• When the account is close to zero, parents get a notice from the school cafeteria to send in more lunch money.
• And the cycle continues.

This system worked well when my kids were younger. But as they grew, their appetites grew right along with them. Between buying double lunches and a la carte items at the middle school, my lunch money bills were getting a bit out of hand. (remember - 4 kids!)

To put a stop to this madness, I set a limit. On the first of every month I send in a check for x dollars per kid. (you can decide what amount is right for your family). And when this money is gone - well, it’s GONE. No more until the first of the following month.

I can’t believe how well this system has worked for us. My kids now plan out the days that they are going to buy lunch. They circle their choices on the menu and add up the total. And they make darn sure that they don’t go over their budget or come in under.

The bonus: any arguments between me and them over buying and taking lunch are gone.

The kids know their limit and budget their money accordingly. They feel in control. A win win situation all around!