After a long day at school, kids often come home looking for something to munch on. Providing them with healthy snacks can fuel their energy and keep them satisfied until dinner. Here are three diverse and practical examples of healthy snack ideas for kids after school that are not only nutritious but also easy to prepare.
Rainbow veggie wraps are a fun and colorful way to get kids excited about eating vegetables. They can be made in advance and packed with a variety of colorful veggies that appeal to different tastes.
To create these wraps, start with a whole grain tortilla. Spread a thin layer of hummus or cream cheese on the tortilla for added flavor and nutrition. Next, layer on a selection of colorful vegetables like shredded carrots, bell peppers, cucumber slices, and baby spinach.
Once the veggies are in place, roll the tortilla tightly and slice it into pinwheels or halves for easy handling. Serve with a side of their favorite dip, like ranch or guacamole, to make it more appealing.
This snack is not only visually appealing but also packs in fiber and vitamins, making it a wholesome choice for after-school munching.
Notes: You can switch up the veggies based on what your kids like or what you have available. Try adding sliced avocado or even some turkey slices for extra protein.
Yogurt parfaits are a delightful and nutritious treat that kids can customize to their liking. They’re perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth while still being healthy.
Start with a serving of low-fat yogurt (plain or flavored, depending on your preference). In a clear cup or bowl, layer the yogurt with fresh fruits like berries, banana slices, or diced apples. Sprinkle a handful of granola or nuts in between the layers for added crunch and healthy fats.
You can repeat the layers until you reach the top of the cup. Not only does this snack look appealing, but it’s also a great source of calcium and antioxidants. Plus, the combination of protein from the yogurt and fiber from the fruits will keep kids full until dinner.
Notes: You can make these parfaits in advance and store them in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go snack. For dairy-free options, try coconut or almond yogurt.
Energy bites are a fantastic option for busy afternoons. They’re packed with nutrients and can be made in batches, so you’ll always have a healthy snack on hand.
To make energy bites, mix together rolled oats, nut butter (like peanut or almond butter), honey or maple syrup, and add-ins like mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or seeds. Start with 1 cup of oats, 1/2 cup of nut butter, and 1/3 cup of honey. Stir everything together until well-combined, then roll the mixture into small balls (about the size of a tablespoon).
Place the energy bites on a baking sheet and refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once they’re set, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This snack is not only delicious but also provides a great balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats for a quick energy boost after school.
Notes: Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa powder, spices like cinnamon, or using different nut butters. You can also roll them in shredded coconut or crushed nuts for added texture.