Introduction
After a long day of school, it can be hard for kids to have the energy to do their homework, have time for extracurricular activities, and just have fun. That’s why it is important to ensure that your child is getting a nutritious snack after school. Snacks that are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats can help your child stay full and energized. Here are some nutritious after-school snack ideas that are easy to make and are sure to be a hit with the kids.
Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
This snack is easy to make and is packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for your child’s growth and development. Start with a layer of plain Greek yogurt. Add a layer of chopped fresh or frozen fruit. Top with a sprinkle of nuts or granola for a crunchy texture. This snack is rich in protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants that will help your child stay energized throughout the afternoon.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup of chopped fresh or frozen fruit
- 1 tablespoon of nuts or granola
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and the chopped fruit.
- Transfer the yogurt and fruit mixture to a serving bowl.
- Top with the nuts or granola.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition:
This snack is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in sugar and saturated fat, making it a great choice for an after-school snack. One serving contains approximately 130 calories, 7 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat, and 13 grams of carbohydrates.
Smoothie Bowl
Smoothie bowls are a great way to get your kids to eat their fruits and vegetables. Start with a base of frozen fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, banana, or mango. Then, add in a scoop of your favorite protein powder and some yogurt or almond milk. Top with your favorite topping such as nuts, seeds, or granola. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins will help your child stay full and energized.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of frozen fruit
- 1 scoop of protein powder
- ½ cup of yogurt or almond milk
- Toppings such as nuts, seeds, or granola
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the frozen fruit, protein powder, and yogurt or almond milk.
- Blend until smooth.
- Transfer the smoothie to a bowl.
- Top with your desired topping.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition:
This snack is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It is also low in sugar and saturated fat, making it a great choice for an after-school snack. One serving contains approximately 160 calories, 14 grams of protein, 6 grams of fat, and 17 grams of carbohydrates.
Veggie and Hummus Wrap
This wrap is a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies. Start with a whole-wheat wrap and spread hummus on one side. Then, add in a variety of fresh vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Roll up the wrap and cut into pinwheels for a fun snack. The combination of protein and fiber will help your child stay full and energized.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole-wheat wrap
- 2 tablespoons of hummus
- ½ cup of fresh vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes
Instructions:
- Lay the wrap on a flat surface.
- Spread the hummus on one side of the wrap.
- Add the vegetables to the wrap.
- Roll up the wrap.
- Cut the wrap into pinwheels.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition:
This snack is a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. It is also low in sugar and saturated fat, making it a great choice for an after-school snack. One serving contains approximately 150 calories, 8 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, and 16 grams of carbohydrates.
Conclusion
Snack time doesn’t have to be unhealthy. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can make nutritious snacks that your kids will love. These after-school snack ideas are easy to make and are sure to be a hit with the kids. And, they are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats that are essential for your child’s growth and development. So the next time your kids come home from school, have a nutritious snack waiting for them!