We know the struggle of finding snacks that are both nutritious and tasty enough to pass the picky eater test.
Fear not!
We’ve got you covered with these 12 healthy and delicious school snacks that’ll keep your kiddos fueled and focused throughout the day.
12 Healthy and Delicious School Snacks Your Kids Will Love
1) Apple Slices with Almond Butter
Crisp apple wedges paired with creamy almond butter create a perfect balance of sweet and protein-rich goodness. This snack is not only delicious but also provides a good dose of fiber and healthy fats. To prevent the apples from browning, try squeezing a bit of lemon juice over them. For nut-free schools, sunflower seed butter makes an excellent alternative. You can even sprinkle some cinnamon on top for an extra flavor boost!
2) Homemade Trail Mix
Create a custom blend with a variety of nuts, dried fruits, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips. This snack is infinitely customizable – try adding pumpkin seeds for extra crunch, or coconut flakes for tropical flair. The combination of nuts and dried fruit provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars for sustained energy. Plus, making it together can be a fun weekend activity that teaches kids about portion control and balanced nutrition.
3) Greek Yogurt Parfait
Layer creamy Greek yogurt with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey for a snack that’s as pretty as it is nutritious. Pack granola separately to add some crunch just before eating. Greek yogurt is packed with protein and probiotics, while the berries provide antioxidants and vitamins. You can switch up the fruit seasonally – try peaches in summer or pomegranate seeds in winter. For a fun twist, use cookie cutters to cut shapes out of melon slices to add to the parfait.
4) Veggie Sticks with Hummus
Colorful carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks paired with creamy hummus make for a crunchy, satisfying snack. This rainbow of veggies provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, while the hummus offers protein and healthy fats. To make it more fun, try using cookie cutters to create veggie shapes, or include some whole-wheat pita triangles for dipping. You can even experiment with different hummus flavors like roasted red pepper or spinach and artichoke.
5) Whole Grain Crackers with Cheese
Pair whole grain crackers with slices of cheddar or string cheese for a classic, protein-rich snack. Whole grain crackers provide fiber and complex carbohydrates, while cheese offers calcium and protein. To make it more interesting, try different types of cheese like mild gouda or swiss. You can also include some turkey slices for extra protein, or a few grapes for a touch of sweetness. This snack is like a mini cheese board that kids can assemble themselves!
6) Homemade Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn seasoned with a little sea salt or nutritional yeast is a whole grain snack that’s fun to eat and much healthier than microwave varieties. Popcorn is high in fiber and low in calories, making it a great snack option. Get creative with seasonings – try a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat, or Italian herbs for a savory twist. You can even drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over it for a more indulgent (but still relatively healthy) snack. Popping it yourself also allows you to control the amount of oil and salt used.
7) Hard-Boiled Eggs
These protein powerhouses are easy to prepare and pack. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper for extra flavor. Hard-boiled eggs are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D and B12. To make them more appealing, try cutting them into shapes using egg molds, or turning them into “deviled eggs” with a touch of Greek yogurt and mustard. For a fun twist, dye the egg whites naturally using beet juice (pink) or turmeric (yellow) before filling. Include some whole-grain crackers on the side for a complete snack.
8) Fruit and Cheese Kabobs
Thread chunks of cheese and various fruits onto kid-safe skewers for a fun, finger-friendly snack. This combination provides a good balance of protein, calcium, and vitamins. Mix it up with different fruits like grapes, strawberries, melon chunks, and pineapple. For the cheese, try cubes of cheddar, mozzarella, or even cream cheese rolled in finely chopped nuts. You can make it seasonal by using star-shaped watermelon for the 4th of July or alternating green and red apples for Christmas. Don’t forget to pack a small container of yogurt dip!
9) Ants on a Log
The classic celery sticks filled with peanut butter and topped with raisins never go out of style. This snack offers a satisfying crunch, healthy fats, and a touch of sweetness. For nut-free versions, try sunflower seed butter or cream cheese. Get creative with the “ants” – use dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even mini chocolate chips for variety. For a savory version, fill the celery with hummus and top with diced bell peppers. You can also use cucumber boats instead of celery for a different twist.
10) Roasted Chickpeas
Toss chickpeas with a little olive oil and your favorite spices, then roast until crispy. They’re like healthy chips that pack a protein punch! Chickpeas are high in fiber and protein, making them a filling snack. Experiment with different seasonings – try cinnamon and sugar for a sweet version, or chili powder and lime zest for a tangy kick. These are great for older kids who might be craving something crunchy like chips. Pack them in a small container with a surprise message or joke at the bottom for extra fun.
11) Banana Sushi
Spread peanut butter on a whole grain tortilla, add a banana, roll it up, and slice into rounds. It’s a fun twist on the classic PB and banana combo! This snack is rich in potassium, fiber, and healthy fats. For added nutrition and crunch, roll the outside in chopped nuts or granola before slicing. You can also try different nut butters like almond or cashew, or use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. For a dessert-like treat, drizzle a little honey over the rolls or add a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips inside.
12) Mini Caprese Skewers
Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto toothpicks for a bite-sized version of the Italian classic. This snack provides a good balance of vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. To make it more substantial, add a cube of whole-grain bread to each skewer. You can also try using different types of cheese like cubed cheddar or tiny balls of fresh mozzarella. For a sweeter version, replace the tomatoes with strawberries or melon balls. Don’t forget to pack a small container of balsamic glaze for dipping!
Remember, the key to making these snacks a hit is to involve your kids in the preparation and selection process. This not only makes snack time more fun but also teaches them about making healthy food choices. Happy snacking!