Make Snack Time Healthy And Fresh

Kids are all about snack time.

Between meals, they’re looking for something quick and easy to keep their bellies from growling, and parents want to be sure they’re well-fueled all day.

Most kids hope for something like cookies or chips, but those options aren’t the healthiest. Of course, a treat now and then is perfectly fine, but in general, too much junk isn’t a good choice. It can lead to bad eating habits that stretch into adulthood, even obesity.

You can provide snacks for your kids that are delicious and nutritious. They’ll give your kids energy to get through the day, as well as a quick lesson in healthy eating.

These ideas below are great for kids, they’re simple to serve, and will keep them full until their next meal. You may even be inclined to have a nibble too!

Tofu Dippers

Cut extra-firm tofu into cubes and serve with different dips. You can go savory or sweet depending upon your kid’s cravings. Some ideas include hummus, spinach dip, Greek yogurt, honey, or pureed fruit.

Fruit And Cheese Kebabs

Alternate chunks of fresh fruit and your kid’s favorite cheese on a kebab stick for something fun to eat. Melon cubes go nicely with mozzarella and strawberries and cheddar make for a tasty match. Grapes with Swiss is lovely as well. You can do this with veggies too, using chunks of bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and thicker cuts of cucumber.

Peanut Butter Pinwheels

Spread peanut butter (or another type or nut or seed butter) onto a whole wheat tortilla. Sprinkle on raisins, a dash of cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey. Roll tightly and slice into ¾ inch pieces. Try different variations using other types of dried fruit bits, jams, and crushed nuts over the peanut butter.

“Everything” Yogurt Bowls

Start with a scoop of yogurt and pile on the add-ins for a snack that satisfies. Some mix-ins to try include chopped dates, chia seeds, canned crushed pineapple, dry cereal or granola, carob chips, blueberries, sunflower seeds, and sliced banana. The more you swirl in, the more interesting the yogurt bowl becomes. Try this with cottage cheese too.

Your kids are sure to love these snacks. Get rid of the goodies and go for something healthier!

What’s a snack time favorite in your home?

For more information like this, please visit All My Children’s blogs.

By: Melissa A. Kay