Growing children tend to get hungry between meals. Some kids are known as perpetual snackers and just snack all day long. Snack time is a perfect opportunity to sneak in some extra nutrients into your child’s diet. Serving them more whole foods will help keep their bellies fuller longer and help them grow healthier. We tend to get in a rut as parents by grabbing the same snacks every time we go to the store, and most of them are prepackaged and not the healthiest. So if you’re looking for healthy snack options that your kids will love, we’ve got you covered!
30 Healthy Snacks Your Kids Will Love
Here is a list of 30 snacks that will help spice up your snack game with your child and give you more nutritious options for the pantry and fridge!
1. Apples and Dip
Pairing fruit with a dip makes it so much more exciting to eat. Apples and nut butter are such a delicious combination. You could even try apples in yogurt.
2. Granola Bars
Try finding ones high in protein and not too many chocolate chips, like this Perfect Kids Bar! They are a simple way to fill their bellies and can be very convenient. Or you can try making some on your own granola bars! This recipe by the Brown Eyed Baker is easy and doesn’t require baking.
3. Hummus
This family favorite dip is great to pair with crackers, veggies, and even whole wheat pita. Start with original flavors and then maybe venture to a new flavor to expand their taste buds!
4. Veggie Tray
Those party veggie trays do not always have to be for a party. Presenting veggies in different ways and on a platter might be just the ticket for your little one to try a healthy crunchy snack.
5. Turkey and Avocado Roll-Ups
Who doesn’t love a rolled-up snack? Just slap a slice of turkey and a slice of avocado in a tortilla and roll it up! These protein-packed rolls will help carry your child over until it is mealtime.
6. Raisins
If your child is old enough to eat these true snack favorites, then add them to your list. Their sweetness is a treat without the sugar effects of candy!
7. Banana Bread (or Muffins)
If this is not a staple in your house, it should be. The variations of this are endless. Serving fresh banana bread as a warm snack in-between meals is such a treat. Here is a recipe for old-fashioned banana bread (like grandma’s!) from Bacon is Magic.
8. Hard-Boiled Eggs
These are so simple to make ahead of time for the week and then allow you to grab and go when you need them.
9. Smoothies
Smoothies are the perfect vessel to sneak in a green item or two without your child knowing. Make it fruit, veggie, or protein-packed; this snack is sure to keep their bellies full and satisfied.
10. Cheese and Crackers
You can elevate this snack by making a small charcuterie board. Choose whole wheat or gluten-free crackers to keep it as healthy as possible.
11. Oatmeal
We tend to put this in the breakfast category, but it doesn’t always have to stay there! Add different toppings to make it interesting. This warm snack is so filling.
12. Cottage Cheese
Such a great choice, especially for infants who are still working on their chewing skills. Another great way to add protein throughout the day. Try adding a fresh fruit topping, like strawberries, pineapple, or peaches.
13. Trail Mix
Having a mix of snacks is always fun for children. Make it personalized by having them “make their own” trail mix. Set out all the snacks and have them create their own versions. Some staples to include are mixed nuts, raisins, dried fruit bits, or granola.
14. Celery with Nut Butter and Raisins
Some may know this snack as “Ants on a Log.” This old-school favorite is sure to be a hit.
15. Yogurt
It seems simple, and it is. But this snack is packed with protein, and the flavor combinations are endless. Greek yogurt tends to have more protein and less sugar and is deliciously creamy!
16. Applesauce
We may be used to pouches of this by now, but do not forget this traditional favorite when it comes to snack time.
17. Fruit and Dip
Just like the veggie tray suggested above, this idea of fruit and a sweet dip will get your little ones wanting more. You can make the dip very simple using plain greek yogurt and some honey.
18. Guacamole
Even though it’s green, it can be quite a hit with children. To make it even healthier, skip the chips and opt for carrot chips or pepper strips.
19. Healthy Banana Split
Cut a banana in half and top with a dollop of vanilla yogurt. Sprinkle with raisins, granola, and chia seeds. For an added yum factor, drizzle some warmed-up nut butter on top!
20. Mini Bagel with Cream Cheese
Make a mini version of a go-to breakfast item to keep them at bay until dinner is ready.
21. Snap Pea Crisps
New to the food aisle, this tasty snack will crave their salty and crunchy needs. Maybe pair it with a piece of string cheese or a small apple for a well-rounded snack!
22. Mini-Sandwich
We do not want to spoil their meals, but making a half or quarter sandwich is a great healthy go-to option for snack time.
23. No-Bake Energy Balls
You can make these protein-packed small bites ahead of time and store them for a quick healthy snack. These are filled with healthy ingredients like peanut butter, oats, honey, and a handful of dark chocolate chips. Try this easy recipe from Build Your Bite.
24. Pretzels and Honey Mustard
Taking an ordinary pretzel and adding a honey mustard dipping sauce creates a whole new spin to a traditional snack!
25. Egg Bites
Make mini egg bites in a muffin tin. Add veggies, cheese or keep them plain. These mini “quiches” will keep them wanting more.
26. Sliced Apple Sandwich
Core an apple and cut it into round slices. Slather one slice with a nut butter of your choice. Sprinkle on some granola and top with a second apple slice. Voila! Apple sandwich!
27. Mini Muffins
Make your favorite healthy muffin recipe or bread, but use a mini muffin tin. These will make the perfect bite-size snack.
28. Fruit Leathers
A much healthier version of a fruit roll-up, this new fun snack is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It also serves up their daily dose of fruit.
29. Popcorn
Always a hit with kids, this snack just makes any day better. To make a fun snack mix, you could even add a few more ingredients, like pretzels and raisins!
30. Pizza Toast
Spread some ready-made pizza sauce on a slice of bread. Top it with shredded mozzarella and a few pepperoni slices. Pop it in the oven for a minute or two, and you’ve got a fun snack!
Snack time doesn’t need to be boring or unhealthy when you have options like these! Try some of these healthy snack ideas for kids and let us know which ones are a hit for your kiddos!
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