This post is sponsored by Stonyfield® Organic.
Snacking can help add needed nourishment into a child's day - as long as it's done right. Here are 3 Tips To Help Kids Snack Smarter.
Summer is delicious. A lot of popsicles, ice-cream cones, BBQs and pool parties went down over the last couple of months, so now I guess this post is a gentle-new-school-year-reminder to myself (and my family) that it's time to cut back a bit in the snack/dessert arena.
I'm not talking giving up snacking, no way.
I'm just saying that with school back in session (aka.. established routine), it's a great time to stop and consider whether or not I'm providing my family with the snack options that I want them to be eating. Do I have good snack choices that my kids want to eat available? Truth...not always.
I want my kids to know that there are foods out there that can serve as both a treat and a benefit to their body. To teach that lesson, well.. I've got to provide
them with some options.
Today I'm sharing 3 Tips to Help Your Kids Snack Smarter. Spoiler alert...it's really not that complicated.
Tip #1: Get Them Involved/ Offer Snacks That They Actually Want
For example, my son Campbell (4) does NOT like celery. I can add peanut butter, raisin ants marching on a log, smother it in cream cheese... doesn't matter. It's not his thing. I think often we make snacks, school lunches, etc. way too stressful. The trick isn't Pinterest worthy plates with snacks formed in the image of your child's favorite Disney character. It's as simple as finding something that they want to eat.
The latest and greatest around my house lately has been Stonyfield Organic Snack Packs. The kids love the idea of "dipping" and who doesn't like some crunch with their yogurt? Personally I'd recommend the Strawberry Yogurt & Graham Crackers Snack Pack, but my boys are all about the Chocolate Yogurt options.
Here's the deal with these little snackers.
Use the graham crackers or pretzels as "dippers"...no spoon necessary (so they are great for on the go) USDA Organic and non-GMO project verified (as are all Stonyfield® Organic products) No artificial flavors or colors.
Click HERE to find a store nearby that carries this product.
Tip #2: Create a Snack Bin/ Offer Freedom of Choice
I used to lay a snack out for the boys for when they arrived home. Honestly, it was simpler than watching them peruse the fridge and pantry, foraging for their own. This year I'm trying something new and so far...it's been fantastic. I created a snack bin in the refrigerator full of great choices that they love. When they get home, they pull out the bin and choose 1 item. They like the opportunity to choose their own snack and I like the fact that I still have a little control.
Tip #3: Offer a Snack Platter Between Snack Time and Dinner
I got this idea from Sally at Real Mom Nutrition. Once the kids have finished their snack from the snack bin... sometimes they still want more. Each afternoon I just lay out a platter, crudités style. I usually just put some chopped up veggies, nuts if I have them and a bit of fruit. Everyone is free to take as much as they want until dinner. I originally didn't think my kids would go for the raw veggies/fruit/nut situation, but there's something about arranging it on a platter that makes all the difference in the world. I always keep the platter super simple. It lasts 2-3 days and then I just refill it. It's my new favorite thing!
Would love to hear from you guys on this topic! Mosty because the whole snack thing is a challenge and I want to borrow your ideas and use them for myself!
How Do You Make Snack Time Smarter?
Also...anybody else already dreaming of lazy Summer days?? Meeeee!!!!
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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Stonyfield® Organic.
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