It feels like we just went on summer break, and now it’s already time to shop for back-to-school supplies. Among the excitement of going back to school, kids will need the fuel necessary to excel in class from their first day to their last. Choosing the right snacks for school is an important part of keeping them energized and focused throughout the day.
Many school districts are now prioritizing healthy advancements in student nutrition by participating in federal initiatives such as the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program. In our school district, policies and standards for snacks in schools are implemented by adopting nutrition guidelines and USDA regulations, ensuring that all snacks provided meet the requirements for student health and well-being. These programs have offered healthier school meals by adhering to strict school standards and those published by the USDA, ensuring students have access to nutritious options throughout the school day.
Here’s what snacking brings to the table for your little learners and what to opt for as you’re packing.
Why is choosing healthy snacks important for kids?
We all know how we get when we skip a meal. Maybe you rushed out the door and all you had in your hand were your keys and black coffee. By about 11:00 AM your stomach is growling, your hands are shaking, and not a single decision can be made.
Now imagine your young ones in school having to soak up every ounce of learning material, meeting and playing with new friends and participating in class under those same conditions!
Snacking can help bridge the gap between breakfast and lunchtime for your kiddos. Choosing healthy snacks that provide enough calories and good nutrition is important to support learning, healthy eating habits, and overall well-being. It's also important to avoid foods that are high in empty calories; making smart choices helps children avoid foods that lack nutritional value and encourages good nutrition. Instead of feeling the stretch between established meals, they can keep their mind on their studies. Children’s Hospital Colorado notes that children should eat something every three to four hours. If this snack is included, a child is more likely to choose healthier foods come mealtime if they’re not hungry leading into it.
Preventing kids from snacking can result in anxiety, depression and sometimes aggression according to Discover Magazine.
Tips for putting together the perfect healthy snacks
Including a healthy snack should only take a few extra minutes. Involving children in meal planning and the meal preparation process can encourage smart snacking habits and help them make healthier choices. Fiber can help ensure their digestive systems are regulated and, when paired with snacks that are filled with protein, they’ll feel fuller for longer. Protein also helps build energy and muscle growth so your kids will grow big and strong!
Whole foods, like peanut butter, offer all of these benefits and more. Including whole grains in snack foods is another great way to provide balanced nutrition and meet school nutrition standards. A 2021 randomized controlled study revealed that peanut products helped improve memory and stress responses because of the bioavailable compounds found in the product.
Although the snack aisle at the grocery store is filled with crackers and chips, these salty foods can have negative effects on your child’s ability to learn and be active in school, says the American Heart Association. When choosing snack foods or food sold at school, remember that all food sold in schools must meet specific nutrient and calorie limits. Be mindful of the portion size limit, saturated fat, and accompaniments like cream cheese and salad dressing, as these are considered when assessing the overall nutritional profile and are regulated to promote healthier snack time and support students’ nutritional needs.
Snack foods ideas for healthy eating
With the foundations at hand, here are a few fun snack ideas to keep your kids fueled and their brains prepped for learning.
Snacks that are quick and easy:
-
Ants on a log.
-
Apple slices with peanut butter dip.
-
Healthy fruits like grapes, berries, or orange slices.
Snacks that require minimal prep:
-
Tomato and avocado toast.
-
Cucumber sandwiches with cream cheese or hummus.
-
Greek yogurt with granola and fruit.
All of these snacks are easy to put together, include typical household items, and can ensure your little tikes are getting the most out of their school day. For the simplest snack your kids are sure to love, check out our full menu of Perfect Bar Mini sizes.
Smart snacks that meet USDA guidelines are available in middle and high schools, and high school students may have access to a broader variety of no-calorie and lower-calorie beverage options.
For parents seeking additional ideas, consider these snacking tips: offer a variety of healthy options, including fruits and whole grains, and keep portions suitable for your child's age and school level.
