There are so many things to comment on I don't know where to begin. First 80cents isn't going to cut it for 4 people eating cereal and milk. Plus my 9 yr. old DD also needs protein or she is starving an hour later. So we throw in a few eggs or something. Plus there are no snacks. Once again my very active 9 yr. old DD eats about 7 or 8 times a day. She would starve. My youngest DD also eats 2 to 3 snacks daily. Also, I don't know how .75 covers 4 grilled cheese sandwiches. You also list no fruits in your diet, that is a no-no. Also, .66 isn't going to cover 4 peoples veggies, even from farmers market. We do grow some ourselves, but not all. I could give up the soda and capri suns, but they would drink milk, skim for oldest DD and soy for youngest. Your family would be malnourished.
I skip breakfast. I shouldn't, but I do not allow my kids to skip, even when they want to. I buy generics, don't eat organic and I'm not a food fanatic. Heck, we had ballpark franks and mac and cheese today for lunch (with carrots, cucumbers and watermelon) and we do that about 2x per month. But you just aren't being realistic. Has this just become a game to you?? A growing child should never eat this little. That is the only thing that has bothered me about this thread. I love getting frugal meal tips, but some kids represented on this thread are not eating enough. I would be very worried if my 9 year old only ate as much as some of you post your kids eat. My DD 9 developed GERD earlier this year and lost down to 68lbs. and I was worried sick. She was lethargic, couldn't finish her soccer games and just gaunt looking. Not her at all. Now with meds. she is up to 75lbs. and herself again. She is very athletic and basically all muscle. Please consider the affects of letting your children not eat well. Sorry so long, I just had to say this. Also, I'm not trying to insult anyone, I'm just really concerned.