Snack Guidelines for Kids Part 2: Quick Tips!

Fuel with food!
Pair protein and fiber to pack a punch of nutrients and increase feelings of fullness. Protein foods are nuts, seeds, cheese, yogurt, beans, lean meat, and fish. Fiber comes from foods like fruit, veggies, popcorn, and whole grains. ​

​Set a Schedule
Plan a meal or snack for about every 3 hours over your child's day. Snacks should provide energy for brain power and play, but shouldn't spoil dinner. ​

Teach Appetite Awareness
If your child is requesting more food after eating a snack, ask if they are feeling:

• Hunger
• Boredom
• Tired
• Thirsty
• Or just wanting something sweet as a treat

​Stay Hydrated!
Kids should drink 6-8 cups of water each day, or more if they are physically active. Eat fruits and vegetables, which also provide water! 

• 3-4 servings of fruit (1/2 cup = 1 serving)
• 3-6 servings of veggies (1/2 cup = 1 serving) 

For practice making kid-friendly snacks, as well as the chance to ask questions of your local Registered Dietitian, join us for our Sensational Snacking class at the Verdant Community Wellness Center on Saturday, May 6th. The hands-on portion of the class is for kids ages 7-11 years old, while the parents get to have their own information session with a Registered Dietitian. We will all sample the tasty snacks together! Register online.