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Let’s face it. Kids have tons of energy to burn, and they build up an appetite quickly and can use extra calories because their bodies are growing. Of course, as parents or caregivers, you want to ensure that your children are eating nutritious foods, but don’t forget that snack time is a big deal among kids. Have plenty of easy snacks around the home for the children that they can gobble up and enjoy.
Jell-O
It’s the tasty snack that jiggles, and your kids will love it. Gelatin comes in pretty colors and flavors, and it’s an easy snack to digest and enjoy during the day. Add a dollop of whipped cream, and you’re good to go.
Hummus
The Middle Eastern and Mediterranean favorite is excellent for snack time, and there are multiple flavors to choose from such as roasted red pepper, jalapeno cilantro, roasted garlic and even chocolate hummus. Your child will find one they enjoy. You can keep some veggie sticks on hand for dipping into the hummus or slicing up pita bread for dipping. It’s a nourishing, smooth, plant-based treat made from chickpeas.
Jelly Beans
A handful of colorful, delicious jelly beans from the Jelly Bean Factory is a welcome treat for kids. Best of all, these “beans” are made with natural flavorings, plant-based colors and are 100% vegetarian! In addition, they’re free from the 14 EU major allergens. There are so many awesome flavors to choose from, too. Imagine Butterscotch, Salted Caramel, Wild Cherry and even Pina Colada. Who could resist this yummy snack?
Mini Bagels
Sometimes, nothing but a bagel will do, and for kids, our nutritional pros recommend buying mini bagels. These round treats contain zero to very low-fat content and offer up a good source of vitamin C, calcium, iron, protein and fiber. Top a mini bagel with peanut butter, and this should keep the kids full until dinnertime.
Cheese
A dairy snack is another fab option when your kids are on the hunt for a fun snack. Cheese provides a good amount of calcium and protein. Some children enjoy strong cheese or slices of American cheese. You could also offer your kids small cubes of cheddar for a nutritious snack.
Graham Crackers
This classic snack is quite versatile. One of my favorite ways of enjoying some graham crackers is with a glass of cold milk. Children love dunking them. It is one of the simplest snacks to reach for, and you could also provide a small cup of yogurt to dip the graham crackers in, instead of milk. It’s yummy and fun, either way.
Granola Bars
People of all ages enjoy these quick bites, and granola bars come in a variety of flavors and yummy chewy textures. These bars offer fiber, carbohydrates and are great to have in the pantry when your kids are wanting a filling snack. You could always bake your own granola bars for the family, or head to the grocery store and find bars in a sweet mix of grains that include oats, whole wheat, brown rice, quinoa, etc.
Popcorn
Here is a sentimental snack that many folks have enjoyed in between meals, and your kids, ages five and up, love it, too. Popcorn is at its healthiest when it is air-popped and lightly seasoned with salt. You can also add in crushed pretzels, jelly beans or Lucky Charms cereal, etc. The snack contains low fat and calories and provides energy with carbs for the kids.
Raisins
Here’s an old-fashioned snack that’s been around for decades, and we’d bet that there isn’t a kid who doesn’t enjoy their own tiny, red box of Sun-Maid Raisins. Dried fruit is an excellent snack, never messy and comes packed with fiber and healthy fats. If your child doesn’t want raisins, you could try dried cranberries or apricots.
Conclusion
Your children are growing super fast, and they need to refuel often. Snack time is an essential part of childhood, and kids truly enjoy a nice treat before dinnertime or homework. You don’t want messy snacks; easy is always best. Keep these delicious, kid-friendly favorites stocked in your pantry and/or fridge.
