Healthy Snack Ideas for Kids

Snack time can often be one of the most challenging times to keep our children's healthy eating goals a priority. We like to use snack time as an opportunity to increase their fruit and vegetable intake.

That tempting snack cupboard, lack of time, and midday cravings can influence us to make unhealthy choices. We all get hangry, I get it! It's important to have a "snack plan" prepared so that we can have healthier snacking options available for our children.

I have shared 10 of our children's favorite easy prep snacks that help keep us on track.

1. Apple slices with peanut butter

This is one of my daughters favorite snack. We cut/slice the apple and add peanut butter to it. Easy peasy!!

Tip: Be sure to read the ingredient list on the PB and choose one without added sugar.

2. Carrots and hummus

Carrots and hummus is such a great snack option. Not only are you providing a serving of vegetables but by adding hummus, you are also adding protein and healthy fats.

Tip: You can buy hummus from the store or make one of the recipes available on Bobbieleelicious.

Hummus

Roasted Beet and Chickpea Hummus

3. Bowl of fresh fruit.

Fresh fruit is always a great snack option, most kids love fruit. I prefer picking fruit that is in season to get the most nutrition from it.

Tip: Introduce new fruits often.

4. Plain yogurt with fresh fruit

Tip: Choose plain over flavored yogurt varieties. Flavored yogurt often contains sugar as a top ingredient. If you would like to make your own homemade yogurt, see my recipe here.

5. Crackers, cheese, with veggies.

6. A cream cheese and cucumber sandwich.

7. Smoothie

Tip: It is best to make your smoothies fresh at home. There are many varieties sold in stores, they often contain a lot of sugar and unnecessary preservatives. Also, fresh made smoothies taste much better and contain much more whole food nutrition..

Here are a few of my children's favorite smoothie blends:

Strawberry-Mango-Banana Smoothie

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Breakfast Smoothie

8. Mixed veggie plate

Try new veggies often to keep it interesting. Add dips and cheese to the plate. My kids love helping in the kitchen so I let them do age appropriate tasks, like peeling carrots and/or washing and cutting the produce with their kids friend kitchen knife.

9. Mini charcuterie board

10. Kefir with a side of fruit

Kids typically eat 2-3 snacks daily. Offering a variety of healthy snack options is a great way to help reach and/or exceed the recommended 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day.

If you enjoyed this nutritious list leave a comment and share any other healthy snacks your little ones love!