Wholesome Snacks for Children

Children need well-balanced meals and snacks to keep them going throughout the day. Since they are growing and usually very active, snacks can help boost their nutrition between meals. Snacks can also provide energy and satisfy hunger.  

Snack Time Success  

• Keep snack time consistent so children know when they will eat next.  It’s a good idea to space snacks halfway between meals.   
• Tell children what snack will be served so they know what to expect and can get excited.   
• Provide enough time for children to transition from play to the table. This will help calm children before eating.   
• Offer one or more foods at snack time, depending on your child’s appetite. This could be a vegetable or fruit, a whole grain or a protein food.   
• Allow children to decide if they would like to try the snack and how much to eat.  They are the only ones who know if they are hungry or not.  

Snack Ideas  

Use variety to keep snack times exciting! Try some of these ideas:  

• Grilled cheese sandwich with sliced apple*  
• Whole grain cereal, sliced banana and milk  
• Yogurt parfaits with berries and oats*  
• Cucumber and cheese tortilla wrap  
• English muffin pizza  
• Peach slices and cottage cheese  
• Smoothie made with milk, yogurt and fruit  
• Whole wheat pita bread and hummus  
• Broccoli with a yogurt dip*  
• Whole grain crackers and cheese slices*  

*Apple slices, whole berries, crunchy vegetables and hard crackers are choking risks for children under the age of four.  

Keep Dental Health in Mind  

Limit sugary foods and drinks such as:   

• Pop, sports drinks, fruit juice and fruit drinks   
• Soft, sticky sweets such as toffee or chewy candy  
• Sticky and dried fruit snacks and fruit leather  
• Hard candy and lollipops that stay in the mouth for a long time   

Did you know that adding firm cheese to snacks helps protect teeth? For more information, order our brochure Dental Health: Good Habits Start Early.   

For more inspiration, check out our videos of kids making snacks. Try our Strawberry Banana Parfait or Crunchy Rainbow for fun, colorful snack options.