It’s here kids! 2026! A new year filled with new possibilities…With schools across the country opening their gates for 2026, this past Wednesday, classrooms once again buzzed with laughter and chatter. Back to school also means having a healthy lunch during your lunch break, to give you energy and to help keep you focused. In this edition we have featured some lovely ideas & tips for school lunches, below. Dear kids, may your days at school be filled with learning and laughter that makes your school days special. Remember, every lesson is an opportunity to grow and every challenge is an opportunity to shine. Work hard and always believe in yourself, because the future belongs to you! Until next time, here’s to a bright and successful 2026 school year!
Competition Rules
The Editor’s decision is final.
- Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries.
- This competition is open to all children between the age of 5 and 12 years who live in the main distribution area of the LAUDIUM SUN.
- Closing date: Thursday, February 5, 2026.
- All entries must be hand delivered at the Laudium Sun office, Jhina Centre, Laudium reach us not later than the closing date. CBD, or E-mail: info@laudiumsun.co.za or post to P.O Box 786, Pretoria, 0001 to reach us not later than the closing date.
- Only entries cut along the dotted line will be accepted, and must include a recent clear photograph of the entrant.
Congratulations to our Winners!!!
Below are the three Kids Corner readers who really excelled in our December contest and are our chosen winners! And here we stress chosen winners…as the number of entries we receive each month never ceases to astonish us! It is amazing – and the quality absolutely breathtaking (our judges certainly have their work cut out for them!) We are thrilled! To think that such incredible talent lies in the hands of our young readers! What a great thought, knowing that we can expect only great things from you! We’d say, keep it up, but we just know that’s what you plan on doing in any case, without any prompting from us! Let’s rather say, keep us amazed!
Healthy, fun, lunch box ideas for 2026
- Sandwiches with a twist…Try using whole wheat bread, wraps or mini rolls filled with grilled chicken and lettuce, cheese, cucumber and tomato, hummus with grated carrot or tuna and sweetcorn, amongst others.
- Fresh fruit gives natural energy…
Try packing small portions of mixed berries, cubes of watermelon, melon or pineapple, naartjie segments or apple slices with a squeeze of lemon (so they don’t go brown or add in avocado, sliced, mashed as a guacamole or in a sandwich. - Snack smart… Try carrot or cucumber sticks with a small hummus dip, yoghurt cups, lightly salted popcorn, cheese cubes or boiled eggs.
- Mini pasta salad, chicken strips or carrot muffins are also lovely lunch box ideas.
- Don’t forget to pack water! Juices are O.K., but water is best for keeping kids hydrated and focused. Add slices of lemon or fruit for a subtle flavor to the water.
- Moms, here’s to a school year filled with nourishing lunches.
You’ve got this!
Smile-a-while
Why did the echo get detention the first day?
It kept answering back.
What is a Math teacher’s favorite season?
Sum-mer.
Where do writing utensils go on vacation?
Pencil-vania.
Where does a surfer go to school?
Boarding school.
Why did the kid cross the playground?
To get to the other slide.
Children in what grade have the greenest thumbs?
Kindergarden.
Why did the teacher jump into the pool?
He wanted to test the water.
Why can’t you work in an orange juice factory during school hours?
Because you can’t concentrate.
Why did the kid study on an airplane?
He wanted a higher education.
How did the music teacher get locked out of her classroom?
Her keys were on the piano.
What did the pen tell the pencil on the first day of school?
Looking sharp.