11 Healthy Snacks for Kids

Children of all ages get hungry between meals. Their bodies need fuel to keep them actively playing, learning and of course growing.

While most of children’s nutritional intake is covered by the nutritious meals you make, snacks can be part of an overall healthy eating plan according to the Healthy Children organization from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Healthy Children recommends using snack time as a way to get your kids to eat more colorful fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. So, instead of turning to processed foods in a box or bag that contain added sugars, salt and preservatives; use these 11 suggestions to give your kids healthy and tasty snacks to grow on.

Yogurt and berries

Low-fat yogurt is loaded with protein, calcium, and vitamins. Layer yogurt in a parfait glass with fresh berries for an incredibly healthy and tasty treat. Berries come with some added summer benefits. Strawberries and blueberries decrease sensitivity to heat and fruits keep kids hydrated when they are outside playing.

Hummus with veggies

Hummus, made from chickpeas and tahini, is an incredibly healthy food because it provides over eight grams of protein per serving and it is loaded with nutritional benefits.  Serve it with a rainbow of cut-up fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and red peppers for a healthy and satisfying snack.

Homemade Ice Pops

Nothing beats the summer heat better than ice pops. Make them yourself and you can control what goes in them. This recipe for Frozen Orange Pops from The Food Network is made from orange juice and nonfat Greek yogurt.

Popcorn

While microwave popcorn is full of fats and salt, popcorn is not actually a junk food according to Healthline. Air-pop it yourself and go easy on the salt. You can drizzle a small amount of butter on it and sprinkle parmesan cheese on top to make this kid-friendly afternoon snack.

Freshly baked healthy cookies

Nothing smells or tastes better than homemade cookies. The Food Network has 10 healthy cookie recipes that include a healthier take on old favorites including: : Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies, and Oatmeal Pistachio Cookies. Pair these cookies with a glass of low-fat milk for a wholesome treat. Whip some up today!

 Cheese and whole grain crackers

Pair cheese an assortment of low-fat cheeses with whole grain crackers that contain at least three grams of fiber, have low sodium levels, and not a lot of added sugar. Eat This, Not That compiled a list of the 12 healthiest store-bought crackers you can purchase. Finger foods like cheese and crackers are an easy and fun snack.

Fresh fruit

Take advantage of all the fruits that are in season now. Enjoy a snack of watermelon, seedless grapes, or ripe peaches. Try to buy your fruit from a farm stand or farmers market to get the freshest, best tasting fruit, and locally sourced products are kinder to the earth.

Make your own trail mix

While most trail mixes you find in supermarkets contain chocolate and are high in sugar, this recipe from The Endless Meal contains mixed nuts, dried fruits, and whole grain cereal. It’s super easy to make and is a great snack for kids on the go.

Fruit smoothies

A fruit smoothie is a refreshing and healthy treat to beat the summer heat. Just remember to use fresh ingredients of fruits and vegetables – like an orange and carrot combo – and try to avoid using fruit juices because they contain a lot of sugar. Healthline says that this is a great way to get your kids to consume more veggies because the sweetness of the fruit disguises them.  

Healthy Banana Bread

Super Healthy Kids has a recipe for a healthier version of banana bread. It’s made with whole grain flour, yogurt, honey, and of course bananas. Add nuts to make it even more nutritious. Pair this sweet treat with a glass of low-fat milk for a tasty snack.

Ants on a log

This kid-friendly snack is so easy to make. Just cut a stalk of celery into “logs” and fill it with peanut butter – or any other nut butter – and put a few raisin “ants” on top. This healthy snack combines, protein, vegetables, and a dash of fruit