If there’s any time you’re likely to trip up on dietary decisions, it’s snack time. And the same is true – if not more so – for kids. Conventional snacks can be tricky: they often pack in loads of calories and fat and other nasty things to provide a quick fix and satisfy hunger. Why not make your own and keep your kitchen (and car and purse, etc) stocked with these healthy snacks. When snack time calls, you’ll be ready with a healthy answer. Some recipes involve a little prep work, but others require very little at all. Assembled from some of our favorite places online, here are our top picks.
Crackers & Grains
Sometimes a satisfying crunch is in order. These savory snacks are just that, plus they can be packed (in lunches or pockets) and stay fresh all day.
“Cheesy” Crackers
https://havecakewilltravel.com/2007/08/12/cheezy-quackers/
Salt and Vinegar Roasted Chickpeas
https://ohsheglows.com/recipage/?recipe_id=6002030
Homemade Wheat Thins
https://ohsheglows.com/recipage/?recipe_id=6001808
Blueberry Cashew Trail Mix
https://mywholefoodlife.com/2014/02/25/blueberry-vanilla-cashew-trail-mix/
Rosemary Roasted Almonds
https://www.yummly.com/recipe/Rosemary-Roasted-Almonds-MyRecipes-212392?columns=5&position=8%2F79
Sweet Treats & Fruit
The end of a long day (or an adventure on the high seas!) calls for something special. Compared to conventional sweet snacks on the market, these treats are still relatively healthy.
Vanilla Pudding
https://www.yourveganmom.com/your_vegan_mom/2008/05/happy-mothers-d.html
Kiwi Pops
https://weelicious.com/2012/07/12/pea-wee-kiwi-pops/
Almost Raw Coconut & Apricot Balls
https://vegangela.com/2011/10/06/almost-raw-coconut-apricot-oat-balls/
Healthy Rice Crispy Treats
https://deliciouslyella.com/healthy-rice-crispy-treats-vegan-gluten-free/
Breakfast Banana Pops
https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/2012/06/20/breakfast-banana-pops/
No-Bake Almond Butter Chews (in 5 minutes!)
https://ohsheglows.com/recipage/?recipe_id=6001774
Strawberry Oat Squares with Homemade Jam
https://ohsheglows.com/recipage/?recipe_id=6001725
The Basics
And then, of course, there are the basics. We love these simple snack suggestions from the Global Healing Center (https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/10-best-vegan-foods-for-kid/), which encourages healthy eating habits from an early age while also providing vitamins and nutrients:
carrots
almond butter
oranges
bananas
green veggies
berries
apples
sunflower seeds
oats
avocados
Pair any of these with some soy yogurt, and you’ve got a mini meal.