Snacks are an important part of a child's diet. Children are highly active, are growing at a quick pace and have a fast metabolism. They also have a small stomach and cannot eat large meals throughout the day. Snacks can help keep a kid energized between meals. Because snacks are eaten for energy and because your child is developing, it is imperative to make healthy snacks for your kids. Homemade snacks are a good choice because it gives you control over what exactly is going into your child's body. Substitute ingredients for healthier versions or to fit your kids' preferences.
Step 1
Select nutritious snacks. Use fresh, natural ingredients for a healthy snack. Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy and lean protein to give your child a variety of nutrients. You can make yummy dips for fruits and vegetables, roll up some turkey and cheese for a fun protein-packed burrito and cut whole-wheat bread into fun shapes with a cookie cutter.
Step 2
Offer choices. Letting kids make their own decisions helps teach them responsibility and autonomy. It also gives them a level of control so you can avoid the "I don't like that!" tantrum. Give your child a choice between about three healthy options that you have readily available.
Step 3
Choose snacks that your kids can help you make. A child is more likely to eat a snack that he helped make than one that is plopped in front of him. A fun, healthy snack for kids is Pizza Muffins. Allow your child to smear tomato sauce (look for lower sugar and sodium versions) on a whole wheat English muffin. Have her choose her favorite vegetable. You can cut the vegetables up and let her plunk them on top of the muffin. She can sprinkle on some mozzarella or parmesan cheese. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees F for 10 to 15 minutes.
Things You'll Need
- Sliced turkey and cheese
- Whole wheat bread
- Whole wheat English muffins
- Tomato sauce
- Vegetables
- Mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
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