Tasty After School Snacks That Kids Can Make Themselves

School's out for the day, and at this time, your child probably needs a light snack right away. Most kids need to refuel after spending hours doing schoolwork, and the majority of children will eat first before doing anything else once they get home. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, kids need to eat one to two snacks per day to stay healthy, and snacks need to be offered one to two hours before the next meal. The problem is, most youngsters will reach for chips, cookies, or other packaged snacks over healthy fare as they're readily available to quell their hunger pangs.

 

Experts say that snacks should be nutritious, filling, and sustaining so that children can get the energy and nutrients that they need. Instead of filling your pantry with packaged snacks or processed foods, consider teaching your kids how to make their own mini meals. Not only is it healthier for them, but they'll also be more invested in what they're eating. Here are some tasty after school snacks that kids can make themselves.

 

Berry Smoothie

To encourage your child to make and eat wholesome snacks, make sure to have some healthy and delicious food options on hand, and store them in such a way that they're accessible to your little one. Fruits and veggies should be washed, prepped, chopped or sliced, and stored in containers inside the fridge, while staples such as sliced bread should be placed on the table or kitchen counter. Also, kids who are old enough to use small appliances, such as a toaster, microwave, or a blender should be taught safety measures to avoid accidents in the kitchen.

For a simple, delicious, yet filling snack, teach your child how to make a berry smoothie. Berries are one of the most nutritious foods that kids can eat since they're loaded with vitamins and fiber. Adding yogurt to the smoothie enables your child to get some probiotics in their system, which supports gut health and boosts immunity. To make a yummy smoothie, simply blend three-fourths cup of plain or Greek yogurt with 1 and a half cups of frozen mixed berries, 1 sliced banana, and 1 and a half cups of whole milk or almond milk. Blend until smooth. If the smoothie tastes a bit tart, add a drizzle of honey to sweeten it, then blend again. Pour into two glasses, and enjoy.

Pizza Toast

Pizza toast is an easy and tasty snack that anyone can make in about 5 minutes. If you plan your ingredients well, your child will be able to consume some protein, starch, and even veggies in one portable snack. To make pizza toast, spread some tomato sauce or marinara sauce on slices of rye bread, sourdough bread, or wheat bread. Add some salami or bits of ham, then some sliced peppers and mushrooms. Top with mozzarella cheese, then pop them in the toaster oven for about 5 minutes or until the cheese melts. You can also make a meatless version by putting sliced mozzarella on the pieces of bread, then top them off with slices of beef tomatoes and a few fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top before toasting for 5 minutes, and enjoy while they're hot.

Buttered Sweet Corn

Most kids love corn, and not only is it a delicious snack, but it's also rich in fiber which can enhance your little one's intestinal health. If you've got 3 minutes, make some buttered sweet corn for your child. Place a cup of corn kernels in a microwave safe bowl or cup, then microwave it for 3 minutes on high. Take out the corn and mix in 1 teaspoon of softened butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Snacks are essential to your child's health. Consider these easy recipes to encourage kids to make their own after school snacks, and see how healthy snacking can improve their wellbeing.