The school year is officially in full swing, which means busy schedules and hungry, growing kids. When things get hectic and you need ideas for back to school snacks, don’t turn to processed foods lacking in essential nutrients. Instead, keep the kids going with these 6 healthy back to school snacks that are simple and easy to make.
1. Watermelon Slices and Cheese
Watermelon is an excellent source of Vitamin C and offers a boost of extra hydration since its made up of 92% water. Paired with gouda or mozzarella cheese, it’s the perfect back to school snack to keep your child’s energy up after P.E. or before athletic practice.
2. Hummus
This chickpea-based dip is loaded with protein, iron, fiber and B vitamins. Served with fresh-cut raw vegetables, it’s a great source of nutrients for those that are vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free.
3. Fresh Fruit Smoothies
Everyone deserves to be rewarded with a tasty after-school treat but keep it simple with only 4 ingredients. Choose two of your child’s favorite fruits and blend with unsweetened Greek yogurt and milk (nut, soy, animal).
4. Edamame
Edamame is a young soybean that’s is full of protein, fiber and healthy, unsaturated fats. For quick and easy preparation, take frozen edamame and warm them in the microwave. Sprinkle with kosher salt, and they’re ready to be peeled and enjoyed.
5. Bananas and Almond Butter
For a healthier alternative to the classic peanut butter and banana combo, try unsweetened almond butter as a great source of protein with higher fiber content, and fewer saturated fats than your standard peanut butter. Combined with a potassium-rich banana, it’s the perfect combo of essential nutrients needed to support strong muscle and bone development in kids.
6. Baked Kale Chips
Kale is a super-food that’s packed full of vitamins A, K and C. When baked for 10 minutes with a little bit of olive oil, it turns in to a great crispy alternative to processed chips loaded with trans fats. Baked kale chips are also a great crunchy substitute for those that are gluten-free or diabetic.
Learning to cater to the special dietary restrictions and needs of your child can be a challenge, but we’re here to help. In honor of back to school, enjoy your first meal on us when you sign up for a service. For more information, contact us.
Or for more ideas to kick-start healthy eating this school year, click here try our Taco Bowl recipe for their next school lunch.
To learn more about child nutrition and guidelines for a healthy diet click here.