Whether they are packed in a lunchbox or easy to grab when kids get home from school, stocking your kitchen with healthy snacks for kids helps make sure there is always something for growing brains and bodies to snack on.
Kids require even more of the important nutrients our bodies need on a daily basis. Lean sources of protein like eggs, complex carbohydrates like oats, and sources of healthy fats like avocados are the key cornerstones to focus on when choosing a healthy, balanced snack for your child. Omega-3 DHA is a type of healthy fat that is crucial for brain development-making it of special importance to young children who are still rapidly strengthening their brains and absorbing new information every day.Omega-3sare found in fatty fish like salmon and in some fortified foods such as yogurt, eggs and waffles.
Healthy After-School Snacks Kids Will Rush Home For
Other nutrients to include in healthy snacks for kids are calcium for building bones, fiber to keep them full, iron and vitamins A, C and D to nourish their growing bodies. Beyond just food, drinking enough water is also key to making sure they are energized throughout the day. Try our recipes forHealthy Snack Ideas Kids Will Actually Eat.
Need help fueling the little ones in your life? Fill your kitchen with these 10 healthy snacks for kids.
1. Smoothies
Pictured:Make-Ahead Smoothie Freezer Packs
Healthy Smoothie Recipes for Kids
2. Cheese
Pictured:Fruit, Veggie & Cheese Plate
String cheese and cheese cubes make great protein-packed finger foods for all ages! Cheese is rich in protein and calcium, key nutrients that help muscles and bones grow bigger and stronger at a time when children need these nutrients the most. Opt for full-fat or 2% cheese to help the kiddos feel more satisfied at snack time.
3. Whole-Grain Cereal
Pictured:Chocolate-Cherry Snack Bars
Read More:Top Healthy Breakfast Cereals
4. Hummus
Veggie sticks, whole-grain pita bread or broccoli with hummus for dipping is an easy-to-pack snack for all age groups. Cruciferous vegetables, which include broccoli and cauliflower, are rich in vitamins and disease-fighting phytonutrients. Tahini (crushed sesame seeds), an ingredient in hummus, provides healthy fats, while whole-grain pita bread and vegetables supply satisfying fiber to keep kids fuller longer.
5. Freeze-Dried Produce
If raw fruits and vegetables just won’t cut it all the time, freeze-dried produce is a great snacking alternative that doesn’t (usually) contain added sugar. Dehydrated broccoli, edamame, okra, beets and kale are a great place to start to get your kiddos to load up on vegetables. Freeze-dried raspberries, blueberries, apples, bananas, peaches and other fruits are tasty for the kids and full of antioxidants too. New to freeze-dried produce? Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods and Target have a great selection. Dried fruit is also rich in fiber and can help with keeping kids regular; just make sure to choose ones without added sugar.
Make Your Own Dried Fruit & Veggies for a Healthy Snack
6. Whole-Grain Muffins
Pictured:Zucchini Mini Muffins
Making muffins from scratch is an easy way to ensure a whole-grain, veggie-filled option that you can store for eating all week long. Add shredded zucchini, carrots, pureed sweet potatoes or fresh fruit to your mix to pack these snacks full of antioxidants and fiber. Have kids top warm muffins with their favorite nut butter to amp up the nutrients even more.
7. Hard-Boiled Eggs
8. Nut Butter
Pictured:Apple with Cinnamon Almond Butter
Whether they prefer peanut, sunflower, almond or others, nut butters are an excellent source of kid-friendly healthy fats. Smear their favorite spread on apple slices, blend it into a smoothie, or combine it with Greek yogurt for a tasty dip for fruit.
Homemade Nut Butter and No-Nut Butter Recipes
9. Frozen Fruit Pops
Pictured:Granola & Yogurt Breakfast Popsicles
Want a treat that will get the kids excited? Try serving them frozen fruit pops at snack time! Choose treats made with 100 percent fruit and fruit juices to keep added sugars to a minimum. Or, just make your own and get the kids to help! Yogurt squeezes found in the dairy aisle can be frozen into a tasty, protein-rich snack the kids will love. Fruit pops also help with hydration and cool our bodies down during the hottest months.
10. Whole-Grain Waffles
Pictured:Strawberry-Ricotta Waffle Sandwich
Not only a breakfast staple, whole-grain waffles also make a tasty snack on the go. Pop them out of the freezer and into the toaster, then smear them with peanut butter and banana, or almond butter and blueberries! Let the kids choose their toppings and decorate their waffles for even more snack-time fun. For a healthy frozen waffle, look for whole grains listed first (after water) in the ingredient list. And choose brands that are at or below 200 calories, 4 grams of sugar and 350 mg sodium and that have at least 3 grams of fiber per 2-waffle serving.
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