Ready to Go Snacks for Kids

SNACK – PREP FOR KIDS

Learn how to create healthy self serve snacks for your kiddos. This can help kids manage independent snacking.

When children are little, they rely on us big people  to choose which foods will be made for meals and snacks.  As parents, we have to take this charge seriously! Why? The more consistent we serve fruits, veggies and other healthier options during our kids youngest years, the better we set the bar for their eating habits down the line. Plus, let’s be completely honest, little ones are not developmentally ready to choose raisins over chocolate chips. Am I right?? This doesn’t mean we have to take complete control when it comes to our kid’s diets. Nor should we! Because especially when young ones grow and mature, they need a chance to make choices, develop preferences and listen to their bodies.
What is a self – serve snack box? A self – serve snack box, bin, basket, bowl – whatever you would like to use is something you keep stocked with healthy foods your kids can get and eat by themselves. You can create one in you pantry, fridge or on top of your table. It’s what you prefer!

BUILDING A SNACK BOX

A medium sized bin that fits on your shelf, refridgerator or table. Some containers or Ziploc baggies. (these are easier for your under 3 years of age munchkins to get in to) and of course some healthy options!

STOCKING THE BOX

Gather your favorite healthy snacks! Here are some ideas:

Protein:

• Hummus
• Cheese Sticks
• Hard Boiled Eggs
• Yogurt (don’t get one loaded with sugar, check the labels)
• Peanut Butter

Veggies:

• Carrots
• Celery
• Cucumbers
• Edamame
• Cherry Tomatoes

Fruits:

• Grapes
• Cuties
• Berries
• Apples
• Raisins

Kids gotta have ranch with their veggies? We have a healthy alternative for ranch!

GREEK YOGURT RANCH

Ingredients:

• Non – Fat Greek Yogurt
• 1 Ranch Seasoning Packet

Directions: Combine 1 1/2 cups non-fat plain Greek yogurt with 1/2 seasoning packet and stir to combine. Add more seasoning/yogurt to get your desired flavor strength. Enjoy! 🙂

There’s not doubt that feeding families well takes work! But this healthy snack box can take a little pressure off during the week. YOU’VE EARNED IT!

– Chasidy Alvarez