Sweet & Simple: 5 Easy & Healthy Snacks for your Kids
Move over chips – there are some fun and healthy snacks in town! When your kids are hungry and cranky, you may think the easiest thing to do is to grab that big bag of chips out of the pantry. However, over indulging on those types of foods can not only create a bad tummy ache but can lead to life long bad eating habits. According to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, kids and adolescents currently eat an average of 12.4% of their daily calories from fast food.
Eating right can be fun! With just the slightest bit of prep work, you can provide your kids healthy snack options that will make you both feel better.
Show Your Love
Nothing says, “ I love you” more than a heart. Pick up a heart shaped cookie cutter to create a rainbow of fruits, veggies, and meats. You can also make your own crackers as described in this recipe.
Breakfast Of Champions
Ice cream for breakfast? Well, not exactly but it’s just as fun and it’ll give your child the energy he or she needs to start the day. Use a super-sized scoop of your favorite yogurt and top with bananas, strawberries or blueberries. Add a dash of sprinkles and a cherry and you’ve got one happy kid!
In The Lunchbox
To give your kids a special treat in their lunchbox, all you need is a clothespin. Simply fill a plastic bag about half way with their favorite snacks. Cinch the middle and secure it with the clothespin. It’s a great way to serve up cheese and crackers or goldfish and fruit without anything getting soggy.
A New Twist On Popsicles
Eating healthy never looked so good! Your kids will be eating fresh fruits with just 3 simple steps
- Slice up fruit
- Fill mold with fruit and cover with coconut water
- Freeze until solid
To make it even more fun, have your child make their own popsicles. Encourage them to make patterns or color block with the fruits.
Super PB&J
Take your typical peanut butter & jelly snack up a notch with these delicious protein balls. Using fresh fruit, oats and protein powder, you can fuel your kids with tons of positive energy. Keep a stash handy in your bag for after school car rides or on the way to the soccer field.