Quick and Easy Snack Ideas for Kids [9 Healthy Options]

Feeding toddlers is a full-time job. It is very hard to keep them full and content all the time as it is  normal for them to be hungry in between meals. So you always have to keep a few snack options in hand. However, many packaged foods items are proved to be extremely unhealthy. They are packed with processed flour, sugar, and artificial additives which can be very harmful. Serve them whole foods that will provide energy and nourishment instead of highly processed snacks. Here’s a list of healthy snack ideas for kids.

9 Healthy Snack Ideas for Kids

 1. Yogurt 

Yogurt is a great snack for children because it’s a rich source of protein and calcium. Calcium is particularly crucial for the development of children’s bones. What makes yogurt special is the live bacteria found in it. The majority of yogurts targeted toward children contain a lot of sugar. So, full-fat yogurt would be the best option to go for as you always add fresh fruit or honey for sweetness. However, avoid giving honey to infants under the age of 12 months, as it might cause a deadly infection called Botulism. 

2. Jerky 

Jerky is a wonderful source of protein. It is an excellent way to get essential vitamins into your child’s diet. Jerky is a yummy, low-carb protein source that’s also high in minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium. It can provide a variety of health benefits for children, including enhanced metabolism, decreased hunger, increasing mass and muscle, and the development of strong bones and teeth. This is especially important if your child participates in outdoor sports or activities, as staying stimulated without protein might be difficult. You can get your hands on good quality jerky from reputed online stores such as https://jerkybrands.com/

3. Ants on a Log 

Ants on a log is a very fun snack idea. Peanut butter and raisins spread on a stalk of celery are all you need to make this tasty snack.  These three foods give a healthy mix of carbs, protein, and fat when eaten together, one of the most fun snack ideas for kids. Just make sure the peanut butter you buy doesn’t contain any added sugar or vegetable fats. 

4. Oatmeal 

Oats are a rich source of soluble fiber, which boosts the number of healthy bacteria in the gut and has other health advantages as well. It’s best to make your breakfast with whole, rolled oats instead of flavored ones, which are heavy in sugar. You can add cinnamon and diced apples if you prefer. You’ll get more protein and calcium if you cook the oats with milk rather than water,. However, if your kids are fond of the flavored ones, you consider getting them sometimes. 

5. Fruit Smoothie 

Fruit smoothies are a very popular snack. they aren’t very fun and easy to make, but they are nutritious too. It is an excellent method to get a lot of nutrients in a small amount of time. You can even include vegetables in your smoothie if you want to. Your child may not even realize they’re in there due to the sweetness of the fruit. Avoid store-bought fruit juice, which is heavy in sugar, instead use whole, fresh foods. You can attempt a variety of different combinations with fruit smoothies.

Many people tend to prepare fruits and vegetables beforehand to make it quick. It’s a great option for working moms. All you need to do is to clean and chop up the fruits and veggies you like and store them in an airtight container. 

6. Veggie Pita Pocket

If you struggle to get your children to eat vegetables, this is a healthy snack idea that your kids will love. You can spark their interest even more by involving them in the preparation process and making it an enjoyable  children’s activity for them, this way they will be more willing to try the vegetables. Slice up raw veggies like carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, and bell peppers and spread hummus in a whole-wheat pita pocket. Allow your youngster to choose a few vegetables to fill the pita. Many children do not consume enough vegetables, which are high in critical vitamins and minerals.

7. Cheese 

Cheese is an amazing snack that can provide your kid with calcium and protein at the same time. Researches show that eating cheese and other dairy products improves the overall quality of one’s diet. Full-fat dairy foods contribute significantly to a child’s calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A and D dietary requirements. Cheese provides high-quality protein to youngsters, which is essential for optimum growth. Protein takes longer to digest, as a result, kids will be full between meals. Furthermore, research shows that youngsters who eat cheese have fewer cavities.

8. Raisins 

Raisins are basically grapes that have been dried up. Raisins provide all the essential nutrients that are found in grapes. Raisins have a good amount of iron, so they can provide your kid with enough iron which is an essential nutrient that improves blood flow. Raisins also include plant-based nutrients, such as amino acids, which may help to protect your child’s teeth from cavities by preventing bacteria from sticking to them. Raisin snack packs are quick and easy snacks that are far healthier than other convenience meals.

9. Pickles

Cucumbers that have been fermented in salt and water are known as pickles. They’re high in vitamin K, and some include probiotic bacteria, which are beneficial to the digestive system. Pickles with vinegar do not contain probiotics, so look for pickles with live cultures in the refrigerated department of the grocery store. Sweet pickles are heavy in added sugars, so avoid them. As they are sweet and sour at the same time, kids tend to enjoy these as a snack. 

To Sum Up Snack Ideas for Kids

Growing kids have developing flavor pallets. You could also explore some easy baking recipes for the whole family to indulge in. It is essential to experiment with different things to be able to determine what they like. Otherwise, it would be very arduous to think of snacks for them. However, the snacks mentioned above are some very healthy snack ideas for kids to enjoy. So best of luck in whipping up these tasty snacks for your kids.