Backpack filled up with school supplies... ✓
School-year curfew initiated... ✓
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Healthy snack ideas... ?
As summer vacation quickly comes to an end and our kids are preparing to go back to school, we may have forgotten one of the most important things to get them through the day: healthy snacks! Luckily, healthy snacks aren’t difficult to prepare in "bulk" and in advance. Adding in some variety throughout the year is a great way to keep you and your kids from getting bored with the same old thing.
Snack time is also a great opportunity to sneak some extra nutrients into your child’s diet—and yours! We all know the usual suspects, carrot sticks, celery or apple slices with nut butter or hummus, grapes, and the list goes on. Sure, it’s fine to buy some prepackaged snacks occasionally; I encourage you to make sure you look for those with fewer ingredients, no artificial colors or flavors, and low to no added sugar. Here are some of my personal favorite healthy and delicious kid-approved snacks adults can enjoy too. (Just be sure you leave enough left over to pack in their lunchboxes!)
Classic Hard-boiled Eggs
Keep hard-boiled eggs in the refrigerator for a quick, high-protein treat on the run. Eggs are highly nutritious and an excellent snack for kids. They provide a protein boost and several vitamins and minerals including vitamin B12. Check out our recipe for classic hard-boiled eggs now!
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Cookies probably aren’t the first thing you think about when it comes to a nutritious snack, but our recipe for banana oatmeal cookies not only taste great but they're a healthier option, too. Be careful, your kids and family will keep coming back for more so watch those portion sizes! These cookies provide much-needed potassium as well as fiber that our bodies need to stay healthy.
Another addition you can sprinkle into/onto these cookies is raisins! Raisins have nearly all the nutrients found in fresh grapes but in a smaller package. They contain a decent amount of iron, a nutrient that many children don’t get enough of, which is needed to transport oxygen throughout your body.
Energy Bites
Our recipe for chocolate energy bites results in a snack that's made of nutritious, whole ingredients and is a great source of fiber, protein, and antioxidants. A healthy alternative to commercial granola bars and easy to make.
Additional Snack Ideas
Other healthy snack ideas include yogurt, apple chips, turkey roll-ups with cheese, string cheese, apple sauce, nuts, trail mix, granola, olives, and even freshly popped popcorn. Don’t forget to pack a water bottle to stay hydrated!
Kids and adults often get hungry between meals. Having a quick, easy, and healthy snack available can provide the energy you need to get you through the day along with the vitamins minerals, and nutrients our bodies need. Always consult with your doctor or your child’s pediatrician for specific dietary needs. For more snack ideas, I encourage you to visit the healthy recipes section of our website!