Best after-school snacks for busy families

Sep 01, 2011 3:13 PM by Wendy Marie

Posted in Living / School & Education / School Food

Quick After-School Snacks

After-school snacks are as essential to school as backpacks, books and number 2 pencils. This is the chance to give your children (and sometimes busy carpooling parents, too) an extra boost between school and homework or extra-curricular activities. Forget those packaged sugary snacks and opt for one of these tasty, quick and easy snacks; they taste so good that you’ll forget they’re good for you.

Apple slices with peanut butter

Veggies

Sliced bell peppers, carrot sticks and broccoli make excellent, easy-to-transport and even easier-to-eat snacks. Add some extra flavor with a creamy dill dip or hummus.

Peanut Butter & ...

Not just a mate for jelly, peanut butter pairs well with fruits, vegetables and grains. Plus, peanut butter is high in protein and fiber, ensuring satisfaction until dinner time. Spread peanut butter on top of apple slices, then sprinkle with slivered almonds, granola or other nuts and seeds. Another quick idea: Fill celery sticks with peanut butter and top with raisins for a fun, savory and sweet treat. Don't forget that peanut butter is a prime pair for all types of crackers.

Trail mix

Toss together your favorite salty and sweet treats to make a quick snack. Nuts, seeds, dried fruits, cereal, crackers, pretzels and even chocolate are perfect for this after-school pick-me-up. Let your imagination and tastebuds select the ingredients.

Homemade granola bars

This requires a little pre-planning. but the payoff is worth it. Let your kids customize these chewy granola bars with ingredients of their choice.

Fruit

Don't feel limited to just fresh whole fruit. Frozen chunks of melons, mangos and other fave fruits make for a yummy treat, especially on those hot and humid days or between sports practices. Quick and simple ice pops are another way to present fruit in a fun and fast way.