A diet rich in fruit has been linked to a reduction in the risk of heart disease, cancer and high blood pressure, reports the Center for Science in the Public Interest. Children who eat plenty of fruit each day are protected from these health conditions now and as they get older. Some creativity can help you create healthy fruit snacks that your child will enjoy eating while supporting her health at the same time.
Kabobs
There seems to be something about food on a stick that appeals to children and fruit is no different. Peeled and cubed fruit that has been threaded onto skewers provides children with a fun and healthy fruit snack that you can serve at home or take along when going to the park or the mall. Trim pointy ends to prevent injury. You can use any fruit your child likes, but good options include bananas, mangoes, strawberries, apples, pears, pineapple, cantaloupe, oranges and watermelon, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest. For kids who like to dip their food you can serve a small amount of peanut butter or plain yogurt on the side, both of which boast protein.
Frozen Treats
Pureeing fruit and freezing it allows your child to enjoy a kid friendly treat that isn't loaded with sugar. Many products are available that you can pour your pureed fruit into that will mold an ice pop when frozen. Fruit that works well for this includes watermelon, berries, bananas, or any fruit that you can juice, such as oranges or pineapple. Many manufacturers also offer ice pops made from 100 percent fruit juice that are also a healthy option, according to Fruits and Veggies More Matters.
Packaged Fruit Snacks
Many people associate the term "fruit snacks" with packaged gummy bites that claim to be made with fruit when many are not. However, Parenting Magazine recommends a couple of these items that do offer real fruit in them. One example is Archer Farms Simply Balanced Strawberry Banana Real Fruit Bars, which contain enough fruit to equal one serving and have a little bit of yogurt on top for added flavor. Another is Grape Clif Kid Twisted Fruit, which is like one big fruit snack shaped like a piece of licorice. According to Parenting Magazine, this healthy fruit snack is made with 100 percent fruit juice, which means it contains a healthy dose of vitamin C.
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