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As Canadian families transition back into school routines, the familiar task of packing lunches returns—a seemingly simple chore that, for many parents, carries immense mental and emotional weight. For most children in Canada, where less than 10% regularly rely on school-provided meals, this responsibility largely falls on parents, particularly mothers, who are tasked with ensuring their children have healthy, enjoyable food each day.
A recent study led by the Public Health and Urban Nutrition research group at the University of British Columbia sheds light on the complex dynamics behind school lunch preparation. The research, which included interviews with 14 mothers from a suburban school district, reveals the heavy responsibility mothers often feel in ensuring their children are well-fed during the school day.
The Weight of Expectations
For many mothers, preparing a school lunch goes beyond packing food. It is a reflection of their parenting, with some feeling scrutinized by teachers, other parents, and even their own children. One mother shared her concerns about being judged by her son’s teachers based on what she packed, while another, a teacher herself, admitted to evaluating the lunches of her students’ peers.
The societal pressure to live up to the ideal of “good” mothering—where providing healthy, balanced, and enjoyable meals is seen as essential—adds to the stress. Mothers often juggle not just physical and financial aspects of lunch-making but also the emotional weight of fulfilling their children’s dietary needs and preferences.
Emotional and Cognitive Labor
The research highlights that the effort behind school lunches extends beyond the act of packing food. Mothers spoke about the mental load of planning, budgeting, and shopping for the right ingredients. Some felt the need to appear as though they hadn’t gone overboard, while still ensuring that their children had nutritious meals. This balancing act is emblematic of broader societal expectations that reinforce traditional gender norms, where women are expected to prioritize their children’s well-being and protect them from future health risks, such as obesity.
Despite the stress, many mothers find pride and meaning in the act of preparing their children’s lunches. For them, it is a way to connect with their children and show care. One mother noted that knowing her son would have a hot lunch made her feel good as a parent. Others echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that providing nutritious meals for their children gave them a sense of fulfillment.
Implications for School Food Programs
The mental and emotional labor involved in packing school lunches has important implications for the future of Canada’s school food policies. As provinces work towards implementing a National School Food Program—a $1 billion initiative aimed at improving children’s access to nutritious food—the findings of this study suggest that more support is needed for families.
For parents, particularly those facing food insecurity, school-provided meals could alleviate some of the stress and financial strain. In 2022, one in four children in Canada lived in a household experiencing food insecurity. Research has shown that students facing food insecurity are twice as likely to skip lunch altogether.
While Canada’s new school food policy is a step in the right direction, continued investment and evaluation are essential to its success. These programs must recognize the vital role parents play in feeding their children and the emotional, physical, and cognitive work involved.
Recognizing the Labor of Lunch
The daily task of packing lunches is more than just a chore—it is an essential part of caregiving that fosters connection and contributes to the nutritional, emotional, and social well-being of children. As Canadian policymakers work to support families through improved school food programs, it is crucial to acknowledge the complexities of this labor and ensure that those who carry the burden—whether parents or lunch workers—receive the recognition and support they deserve.
