Kids can be the pickiest little eaters sometimes! Sometimes it seems like the only things they’ll eat without a fight are snacks that aren’t healthy. That can be a huge source of frustration for parents, but there is hope. The truth is that there are plenty of healthy snacks out there that kids tend to love.
Trail Mix
Trail mix can be a great snack for kids. They often feature things like nuts, dried fruit, granola, and sometimes pieces of candy. While the candy component isn’t healthy, the other ingredients can be, provided they are consumed in moderation. Amp up the healthiness of your kids’ trail mix snacks by making your own homemade trail mix. Get your kids involved in making it for a fun family project.
Fruits
Fruit is a fantastic snack for kids. It’s naturally sweet and full of nutrients. Many fruits like apples, oranges, bananas, grapes, peaches, and pears can be great to grab and eat on the go. For a sweet, healthy snack on a hot day, try blending their favorite fruits to make a healthy smoothie. Your kids will love the way this snack tastes and you’ll love all the nutrients they’re getting. Fruits are known for being fibrous, which is essential for good health. Not only is fiber good for the gut, but it’s also good for the teeth. Fibrous foods can help stimulate saliva production and cleanse teeth.
Veggies and Dip
Veggies are another fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, including fiber. They aren’t usually as sweet as fruits though, which can make them less appealing to kids. Kids may be more interested in eating veggies as a snack when paired with a dip though. You can keep it simple and use a salad dressing or store-bought hummus as a veggie dip if you like. If you’re feeling more adventurous and want to take more control of what your kids are eating, try making your own veggie dip. It takes more time, but you’ll know exactly what’s in the dip.
Getting your kid to enjoy eating healthy snacks doesn’t have to feel like a battle. Remember, sometimes kids need time to adjust to new foods they’re presented with, just like adults occasionally do. Don’t give up if your kids don’t take to their new healthy snacks right away. Be patient and give it time. They’ll come around. Involve them in choosing healthy snacks and see how much of a difference a little ownership and control makes in their willingness to eat them.
Check out this article on how to keep your kids safe and healthy at the beach!
