When snack time hits, kids usually want something sweet. Rather than reaching for a doughnut or some cookies, why not try these healthy snacks that they will love just as much? From yogurt to popcorn, we have compiled some healthy snacks to offer that will keep up their energy while satisfying their hunger.
Yogurt
A great source of protein and calcium, yogurt also contains calcium which is essential for kids’ developing bones. Like cereal, most yogurt that’s marketed to kids is high in sugar. Instead, go for plain, full-fat yogurt as a base, and then sweeten it with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruit. Did you know that eating one cup of yogurt can provide nearly half of your daily calcium needs?
Popcorn
You may equate popcorn with a junk food you consume while watching movies. But this nutritious whole grain can be very good for you, provided you don’t douse it in butter and other unhealthy toppings. Instead of the movie theater bags, opt to air-pop your own popcorn. This way, you can control how much butter, if any, you drizzle on it. Plus, you can even sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on the top for added flavor.
Celery With Peanut Butter and Raisins
Popularly called “ants on a log”, celery with peanut butter and raisins makes a fun midday snack. Cut stalks of celery into three or four pieces, then spread peanut butter inside. Sprinkle a few raisins on top and voila. You get a snack that provides a great balance of carbs, protein, and fat. Use natural peanut butter to avoid added sugars and vegetable oils. If your child has a peanut allergy, substitute sun butter or almond butter.
Trail Mix
Provided your child doesn’t have a nut allergy, trail mix can be a fun and healthy snack on the go. Most store-bought trail mixes are loaded with sugar from chocolate candies. For healthier versions, make your own at home with unsalted mixed nuts, whole-grain cereal, and dried fruit.
Sliced Pears With Ricotta Cheese
Pears are a favorite fruit of many thanks to their subtle sweet taste. Cut them up into slices and spread some ricotta cheese on top. This is a great way to add fiber, protein, and calcium to your kids’ snacks.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese may seem bland by itself, but this fresh and creamy snack can be spruced up with some dried or fresh fruit, or as a spread on whole-wheat toast. Cottage cheese happens to be high in protein and a solid source of calcium, selenium, and vitamin B12.
Oatmeal
Skip the prepackaged oatmeal which is often high in sugar. You can make this healthy breakfast yourself with whole, rolled oats. Top with a bit of cinnamon and diced apples for sweetness. Use milk rather than water for more calcium and protein. High in soluble fiber, oats are great for modulating the gut microbiota.
Berry Smoothie
For this tasty treat, you will need:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups frozen berries
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup whole milk or almond milk
- 1 tbsp. honey
Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard boil a dozen eggs and keep them in the fridge for a quick and healthy snack at any time of the day. Eggs are chock full of protein, vitamins and minerals (selenium, vitamin B12, riboflavin, etc.), lutein and zeaxanthin (for eye health), and choline for proper brain development.
Turkey and Avocado Roll-Up
This treat is easy to eat, which means it’s perfect for little hands. Turkey is a great source of protein for repairing tissues in the body. Plus, it’s very filling so your kids will feel satisfied in between meals. Avocados contain lots of heart-healthy fats, as well as fiber, folate, antioxidants, pantothenic acid, potassium, and vitamins C and K.
Peel and slice an avocado, gently tossing them in lime juice to prevent browning. Around each avocado slice, wrap one piece of turkey.
Carrot Sticks and Hummus
Hummus is a healthy dip that can be paired with carrot sticks or even red pepper slices or broccoli. This thick, creamy spread is made from chickpeas, containing fiber, folate, and antioxidants.
Take a Tour of Country Home Learning Center Today
Each of our classrooms, no matter what age, promotes health eating. We know how important balanced diets are for good physical and mental health. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our facilities in Austin and San Antonio.
