Back to School Snacks for Brain Power
Back to school is a busy time for many families. Trying to plan daily snacks to help provide much needed nutrients and energy for a child can be a daunting task and it is easy to fall into a snack time rut. Following are some quick snacks which provide healthy alternatives to pre-packaged easy to grab snacks.
Olives and a date
Olives provide healthy fats in a child’s diet and dates are filled with minerals to help provide energy.
Celery and peanut (or seed) butter
If you child is allergic to nuts or is in a nut free classroom, seed butters (i.e., Sunbutter is made of sunflower seeds) are a wonderful alternative and still provide many nutrients.
Fruit on the bottom yogurt
Instead of store bought fruit on the bottom yogurt, which can be full of sugar, consider making your own. Top frozen fruit with yogurt and granola for an extra crunch. If a little extra sweetness is desired top with a little raw honey.
Crackers with guacamole or hummus
Try rice crackers over traditional crackers. The many flavors of hummus will also help beat snack boredom.
Crispy nuts or seeds and dried fruit trail mix
Roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds are a great alternative to nuts if they are not allowed. Another alternative is to use coconut flakes or chips instead of seeds or nuts with dried fruit.
Vegetables and dressing
Mix and match carrots, snap peas, celery sticks, bell peppers and cherry tomatoes with low-fat ranch dressing or vegetable dips.
Hard-boiled egg and cherry tomatoes
It’s easy to make hard-boiled eggs and grab one in the morning. Peeling the egg before packing will cut down on time and possibly frustration for your child.
Cheese and fruit
Mixing different varieties of cheese with oranges, berries or grapes provides great flavor combinations, calcium and protein.
