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Choosing Healthy After-School Snacks for Kids

Two kids cheering with ahimsa stainless steel smart snacking bowls

Getting back to school is all about learning new routines, so now is a great time to develop healthier snacking habits. Packaged snack foods can be an easy, convenient choice for after school but often provide too many added calories and not enough nutrition. Snacks don't have to be complicated! And while snacks tend to be of lower nutritional value than meals (which make up most of your child's nutritional intake), choosing the right snacks can help enhance healthy eating habits. Here are some great tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics:

  • Use snack times as a way to increase fruit and vegetable intake. 

    Most kids do not eat the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables. Snack times offer a great opportunity to increase access and exposure to these nutrient-dense foods. Consider pairing them up with dairy products or dairy substitutes (such as grapes and cheese), lean proteins (such as celery and peanut butter), or whole-grain cereals and bread (such as banana sandwich on whole grain bread).
  • Keep a range of healthy foods handy at home.

     It is much easier to make easy, healthy snacks when you keep a few key items stocked at home. Ideas include different types of raw vegetables and fruit, yogurt dip, hummus, and cheese sticks. 
  • Avoid processed foods and added sugars

    Processed foods (made in a factory and sold in bags and boxes) do not have many nutrients and often have a lot of added sugar and salt. In addition, children may become hungry faster after eating processed foods. 
  • Teach your children to eat a rainbow of colors

    Arrange your children's foods to show the beauty of fresh, brightly colored foods. Talk about the farms where food comes from and the farmers who help grow it during your time together after school.
  • Pack ahead.

    Pre Packaged some healthy options that are nutrient-rich in small glass or stainless steel containers for traveling to after-school activities. 

Child going back to school with Ahimsa Stainless steel cup

I like to support age-appropriate portion sizes for kids with our intentionally designed smart snacking bowls and the conscious cup to limit any sugary drinks. 

Snack Ideas for families: Foods to keep on hand 

Snack ideas for families chart, foods to keep on hand to make healthy snacking easier

 

 

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*This website has been developed by Ahimsa LLC. This site offers health and nutritional information and is designed for educational purposes only. While many of our experts are practicing clinicians, viewing this site, receipt of information contained on this site or the transmission of information from or to this site does not constitute a physician-patient relationship. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice. Any information provided is not meant to address a specific situation, person or event, even if you provide information about a specific person or situation to Ahimsa. Always seek the advice of your child’s own physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this site. Please click here for more information on our disclaimer. Effective Date: October 7, 2019, Updated 6/17/2021. © 2021 Ahimsa LLC, All Rights Reserved