Great After-School Snack Ideas

When I was growing up my Mom always had healthy snacks waiting for me. My afternoon routine consisted of grabbing a snack while I worked on my homework. My Mom and I would spend time slicing up vegetables and storing them in water to keep them crisp and ready to dip in ranch dressing. Another favorite was yogurt and granola. They were quick and easy and didn't fill my tummy with junk.

In today's fast moving society, it is easy to grab something quick. Chips, dip and cookies can be filled with empty fat and sugar calories. If healthy options are available kids will steer away from snacking on junk foods. Here are a few options:

• Celery sticks with low fat cream cheese or peanut butter and raisins. Select 2 or three stocks of celery, fill them with cream cheese or peanut butter. Sprinkle with raisins or craisins. This snack is easy to make and is a hit with younger kids.
• Fruit or veggies with a low fat dip. Select bright colorful veggies and cut into bite sized pieces. Quantities of this snack can be stored in water in the refrigerator to be ready on demand. Use a crinkle cutter to slice carrots, cucumbers or zucchini so the vegetable will hold the dip without making a mess. Using a melon baller instead of cutting into bite sized pieces adds interest and appeal to young snackers. This is also an activity they can get involved in.
• Frozen treats like fruit sorbet made with juice and fruit. This simple snack can be made with orange juice and a banana or fruit of choice. Place ingredients in a blender puree then freeze. This treat is especially refreshing in the summer.

Teaching kids healthy eating habits and portion control is as important as the snack itself. Providing fuel to recharge them to focus on homework is essential. Snacks with too much sugar can cause them to crash and not concentrate to their best ability.