Healthy Snacks Kids Can Make After School
After a busy day at school, kids often come home with big appetites. Instead of grabbing whatever’s easiest, why not turn snack time into an opportunity for them to create their own healthy, tasty treats? These simple, no-cook snacks kids can make —under adult supervision—and are designed to be quick and satisfying so they can get to homework or after-school activities in no time. Plus, a few of these can be prepped ahead, making them even easier to grab and enjoy!
For Kitchen Sprouts (Ages 5-7)
This age group benefits from simple, hands-on activities that let them explore textures and tastes safely. Parental supervision is a must to help guide and ensure safety.
1. Rainbow Fruit Skewers
- Ingredients: Grapes, strawberries, pineapple chunks, and blueberries.
- Instructions: “Let your little ones thread colorful fruits onto blunt-edged skewers to create their own rainbow snacks. Not only is this fun, but it’s a great way to encourage them to eat more fruit.”
2. Nut Butter Apple Sandwiches
- Ingredients: Apple slices, peanut butter (or a nut-free alternative), and raisins.
- Instructions: “Spread nut butter between two apple slices to make a ‘sandwich’ and press in a few raisins for a sweet, crunchy snack. Perfect for little hands to put together with some help.”
3. Yogurt Dippers
- Ingredients: Greek yogurt, honey, and sliced fruit like apple or pear slices.
- Instructions: “Spoon yogurt into a bowl, drizzle with a little honey, and let them dip fruit slices. This snack can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go option.”
For Rising Cooks (Ages 8-10)
Kids in this group are more independent and can handle a bit more complexity. These snacks involve measuring and mixing, with guidance from an adult.
1. DIY Veggie & Hummus Cups
- Ingredients: Hummus, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips.
- Instructions: “Prepare these cups ahead of time by portioning out hummus into small containers. When they’re hungry, they can grab a cup and a bag of pre-cut veggies for an easy and healthy snack.”
2. Berry Parfaits
- Ingredients: Greek yogurt, mixed berries, granola.
- Instructions: “Layer yogurt, berries, and granola in a clear cup or jar. These can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for a ready-to-eat treat.”
3. Cheesy Avocado Toast Bites
- Ingredients: Whole-grain crackers, mashed avocado, shredded cheese.
- Instructions: “These are best made fresh, but you can mash the avocado ahead of time with a little lemon juice to keep it from browning. Kids can then quickly assemble their snack when they get home.”
For Budding Chefs (Ages 11-13)
Older kids can handle more responsibility and enjoy snacks that allow for a bit of creativity. These options are quick to make and can be assembled in advance.
1. Veggie Pinwheels
- Ingredients: Whole-wheat tortillas, cream cheese, sliced veggies like bell peppers, spinach, and shredded carrots.
- Instructions: “These can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Let them assemble and slice them up after school for a colorful, crunchy snack.”
2. Energy Bites
- Ingredients: Oats, nut butter, honey, and add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit.
- Instructions: “Mix the ingredients in a bowl, roll into small balls, and refrigerate. These no-bake bites are perfect to prep ahead and store in the fridge for a quick energy boost.”
3. Mini Sandwich Sliders
- Ingredients: Small whole-grain rolls, sliced turkey or ham, cheese, and spinach leaves.
- Instructions: “Assemble these mini sandwiches and store them in the fridge. They’re easy to grab and customize with their favorite fillings.”
Making snacks together isn’t just about eating; it’s about spending time together, learning new skills, and encouraging healthy habits. Whether they’re helping out with the prep or creating their own masterpiece, these snacks are a fun way to keep your kids fueled and happy after school. Try prepping a few ahead of time so they can grab a quick bite and get back to their busy day!
