After a long day at school, kids usually come home feeling hungry and ready to grab something to eat. As parents, it’s important to have healthy snacks ready that not only taste good but also give them the energy they need. The best after-school snacks are those that are yummy and packed with the nutrients growing kids need.
Here are some easy and healthy after-school snack ideas your teens and tweens will love:
1. Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit is one of the healthiest snacks you can offer. Whether it’s an apple, a juicy orange, or a bunch of grapes, fresh fruit provides natural sweetness and important vitamins. It’s a quick and easy snack that’s perfect for after school.
2. Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a tasty and colorful snack. If you want additional protein, go with greek yogurt. You can get plain greek yogurt and flavor it with honey, jam, or anything else!
3. Meat Sticks
If your kids like something savory, meat sticks are a great option. They’re full of protein, which helps keep kids energized. Look for meat sticks that are low in sodium and free from preservatives.
4. Veggie Sticks with Hummus
Cut up some veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, and serve them with hummus. This snack is not only crunchy and fun to eat but also full of fiber and vitamins. This makes for an incredibly healthy after school snack.
5. Avocado Toast
Avocados are a great source of vitamins and nutrients, and is delicious on some toast. Simply cut open an avocado, mash it, and spread it on toasted slices of bread. You can top it with bagel seasoning for added flavor.
6. Veggie Straws
Veggie straws are a tasty and crunchy alternative to regular chips. They’re made from vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and potatoes, making them a lighter, healthier choice. They’re great on their own or paired with hummus.
7. Smoothie
Smoothies are a great way to pack in a lot of nutrients in one easy-to-drink snack. Blend together spinach, a banana, frozen berries, and some almond milk for a refreshing and healthy treat. You can also add protein powder or a spoonful of nut butter to make it a more filling after school snack for teens.
8. Trail Mix
Make your own trail mix with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a few dark chocolate chips. It’s easy to customize based on what your kids like, and it gives them a mix of healthy fats, protein, and carbs to keep them going.
9. Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is a light but filling snack. Season it with a little olive oil, sea salt, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Popcorn is also a good source of fiber, making it a healthy choice for after school.
10. Apple Slices with Cinnamon
Apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon make a simple yet tasty snack. The sweetness of the apples and the warm spice of cinnamon make a delicious combination that’s also full of antioxidants.
Summary of Healthy Snacks for Teens
Providing your kids with healthy after-school snacks is a great way to make sure they’re getting the nutrients they need to grow and stay active. With these tasty options, you can feel good knowing you’re giving them some of the best after-school snacks that are healthy and something they’ll actually enjoy eating.