(NewsUSA) - As the costs of things rise, it is more important than ever for families to shop smart at the grocery store, especially when preparing for the back-to-school season and all those school-day lunches children will need. Incorporating simple tips and tricks into your shopping trip routine can help you cut costs while still prioritizing healthy, delicious meals.

“Being on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t fill your cart with healthy foods,” said Emily Hicks, a registered dietitian nutritionist for KinderCare. “Plan ahead and think creatively, and you’ll find that you can feed your family a variety of tasty, nutritional meals without breaking your budget.”

1. Buy in bulk. Take advantage of large quantity deals for items your family frequently eats. A large package of chicken breast can go into chicken tacos, pulled chicken sandwiches or chicken and rice bowls. This also helps to make packing lunches easier because if you already have some items prepped, school lunch can be grab-and-go. You can also prepare double batches of some family favorites to freeze for a quick, go-to meal on busy days. Be sure to store these items properly to maximize their shelf life and reduce waste to get the most bang for your buck.
2. Plan ahead. Create a meal-planning list and stick to it. Before your grocery trip, compare prices and search for coupons to find the best deals on the items you need. Remember, frozen fruits and vegetables often have the same nutrition benefits at a fraction of the cost of fresh or prepared options. They may also be less expensive than fresh produce, especially if they’re on sale. Eggs, cheese, and yogurt are also excellent animal protein foods and are less expensive than meat, so consider adding them into your meal rotation.
3. Power up with plants. Swap some meat meals for plant proteins, which offer unique health benefits at lower costs. Beans, lentils, soy, quinoa and nuts are all great ways to add protein to a meal without the expense of meat or fish. Peanut butter or other nut butters are excellent plant protein options that are cheap and filling. Try black or pinto beans instead of ground beef or turkey. Make some quinoa and veggies for a plant-powered bowl. Incorporating more fruits and vegetables helps get more fiber into your diet and keeps you feeling full for longer.

“Grocery shopping can also be a fun and educational experience for your kids,” said Hicks. “Bring them along and let them choose fruits and vegetables to prepare and eat for the week. This can foster a sense of unity and shared responsibility in the family, as well as encourage children to try new foods. Studies show that children are more excited about eating healthy foods and more open to trying new foods when they're involved in the process.”

For more nutritionist-approved and kid-tested recipes and tips and tricks for a successful back-to-school season, visit KinderCare.com.