Let your kids eat these healthy, go-to snacks!
The kids are going back to school, which means more time for workouts for you and lunches that need to be made. Junk food snacks are easy for kids to find but are usually filled with sugar, carbohydrates and unhealthy fats. These foods are not only unhealthy, they’re also draining of energy and brainpower. Give your kids what they need to get through the day, with these great ideas from Skinny Ms.
Trail Mix – Combine any left-over breakfast cereal with sunflower seeds, pistachios, no sugar added dried fruit (cherries, pineapple, blueberries, etc.), and almond slices. Keep this mix in an airtight container and serve it up in a small bag each day. This nutritious treat provides them with healthy omega-3 fats that boost brainpower and a healthy source of sugar that kids love.
Fresh Veggies – Cut up celery, sweet baby carrots, yellow or orange bell peppers and serve them with a small Tupperware dish filled with their favorite dip. Try different dips like ranch, blue cheese, and vinaigrettes to see what your child prefers.
Frozen Yogurt – Yogurt contains life active cultures that support a healthy digestive system. Keep you kids tummies calm and collected by adding a cup of yogurt to their daily meal. Freeze the cups so they’re ready to eat by lunchtime.
Developing New Tastes
Fighting with your kids, trying to force them to eat fruits and vegetables becomes more difficult when they are allowed to have sugar-filled snacks on a daily basis. Help them develop a palette that craves the tastes of healthier foods by preparing healthy, whole food meals at home.
Here are a few ideas for after-school snacks that are nutritious, and kid-friendly.
Edamame: These sweet beans have a rich flavor and only take about two to three minutes to heat. Also delicious cold, you can pick these up at any grocery store in the frozen food section, and, they’re a great source of vegetable protein.
Fruit Smoothie: Blend a low-fat, plain yogurt, and a combination of your child’s favorite fruits, plus a few ice cubes. Serve this with a handful of whole grain crackers for a filling snack that will hold them over until dinnertime.
Low-Fat Bean Dip and Salsa: Simple bean dip, or salsa makes a great snack. Serve this treat up hot on a plate for cheese-free nachos. Or toss a little low-fat cheese on top to make them extra yummy!
Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich: Sliced bananas and a tablespoon of natural peanut butter go great on a piece of whole grain bread for a quick sandwich that provides protein and healthy fats. Add a glass of low-fat milk to the mix and you’ve got a creamy snack that’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Check out this great Protein Bar Recipe from Skinny Ms. for an easy to make after school snack for them, and an on-the-go snack for you! Share your favorite back-to-school workout plans, or snack ideas with us by leaving a comment below.
Check out these videos for more mother approved snacks.
