Everyone loves a snack! Snacks should be a planned part of your child’s daily food intake. A good snack can help them to make it from one meal to the next, serve as a little treat, or even give a burst of energy before an activity. Here are some tips for making the most of snack time…
With their smaller stomachs, children may find it uncomfortable to wait hours between meals. Snacks give you the opportunity to teach your child about new foods, how food gives us energy, and to help them develop healthy eating habits. Use snacks as an easy way to add more nutrition to your child’s diet by choosing options from the MyPlate five food groups:
- Fruits- Sweet and colorful berries, sliced apples, and orange sections are easy for little fingers to pick up.
- Vegetables: Keep celery and carrot sticks in a container in the fridge for a crunchy alternative to chips.
- Whole grains: Let your kids snack on whole grain versions of their favorite cereals, bread, or crackers for a healthy and happy tummy!
- Proteins: Sliced hard-boiled eggs, nuts, and hummus help to build healthy muscles.
- Low-fat Dairy: Give your little one a choice of cheese cubes or plain yogurt with fruit and help them have a say in what they snack on.
Ready, set, snack! Try these fast and budget friendly snack recipes that will make you and your little one smile:
Fruit Dip Add a citrusy sweet treat with their favorite fruit slices
Bugs on a Log Kids can create their own combinations of “logs” and “bugs” for a fun and healthy snack activity.
Honey Milk Balls Sweet and protein packed no-bake “cookie balls”.
Sources: Cornell Cooperative Extension; USDA My Plate