Children often come home from school hungry and in need of a quick snack before diving into homework or after-school activities. Choosing snacks that provide the necessary nutrients without contributing to unhealthy weight gain is essential. With September being Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to focus on child nutrition and healthy after-school snack options that can help keep kids fueled!
Here are some healthy lunchbox ideas, too!
Why healthy snacks matter
Snacks play a significant role in a child's overall diet. They can either be an opportunity to provide essential nutrients or a source of empty calories that contribute to obesity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 50 years, with nearly one in five school-aged children in the United States being affected. This statistic underscores the importance of making conscious choices about what we offer our children to eat, especially during snack time.
Providing healthy snacks can help children maintain a stable energy level throughout the day, support their concentration and learning, and prevent overeating at meals. Here are some easy, nutritious, and delicious after-school snack ideas that kids will love!
Fresh fruit with peanut and almond butter
Pairing fresh fruit with peanut butter is a simple and satisfying snack that offers a great balance of carbohydrates, fiber and healthy fats. Apple slices with peanut butter or bananas with almond butter are classic combinations that kids love. If your child has a nut allergy, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative.
Greek yogurt parfait
Greek yogurt is a protein-packed snack that can be customized to your child's taste. Create a parfait by layering Greek yogurt with fresh berries and a sprinkle of granola. For added sweetness, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup. Greek yogurt provides probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health, while the fruit adds vitamins and antioxidants.
Veggie sticks and hummus
Encouraging kids to eat more vegetables can be challenging, but pairing crunchy veggie sticks with a tasty dip like hummus can make it easier. Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips and cherry tomatoes are perfect for dipping. Hummus is rich in protein and fiber, helping kids feel full and satisfied. This snack is colorful and fun to eat!
Whole-grain crackers and cheese
Whole-grain crackers topped with slices of low-fat cheese provide a satisfying combination of complex carbohydrates and protein. This snack is easy to prepare and can be packed with calcium and fiber, crucial for strong bones and sustained energy. Opt for crackers with minimal added sugars and ingredients you can pronounce for the healthiest option.
Smoothie
Smoothies are a fantastic way to sneak in fruits, vegetables and even protein. Blend together a mix of spinach, banana, frozen berries, Greek yogurt and a splash of almond milk for a nutrient-packed snack that feels like a treat. You can also add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
See how we help with child nutrition
Healthy after-school snacks are an essential part of a balanced diet, providing kids with the energy and nutrients they need to stay focused and active. By choosing nutritious options, parents can help combat childhood obesity and promote lifelong healthy eating habits. During Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, let's commit to offering our children snacks that are not only delicious, but also support their overall well-being!
DREAM offers after-school programs with various activities and nutritional snacks to assist with child nutrition. We’re always looking for partners and volunteers to keep this program going. Contact us today if you’re interested in volunteering or partnering with DREAM!
