The first rule of parenting: Never leave home without snacks. The second rule of parenting: Pack more snacks than you think you'll need.
This tidbit of wisdom was passed on to me from a friend of mine when my kids were just beginning to eat solid food. I didn't really think much of it until I was victim of the biggest meltdown I have ever witnessed from lack of snacks. When you have a hangry child, that experience stays with you, and you'll never forget the snacks again.
Packed with healthy nutrients, this collection of snacks is perfect for the whole family to enjoy while on-the-go. You are sure to find something in this list that you and your children will happily consume.
Fruit
The perfect snack that can be taken anywhere.• Clementines
• Bananas
• Apples
• Pears
• Applesauce squeezers
• Small boxes of raisins
• Fruit leather
Veggies
Look for individual packs of fresh veggies. Offering a small container of ranch dressing for dipping is also a fun option.• Baby carrots
• Snap peas
• Cucumbers
Crackers/Grains
A favorite for those who like a little crunch. Look for options that are whole grain and nut free if needed.• Popcorn
• Mini bagels with cream cheese, nut butter or sunflower butter
• Mini pretzels
• Organic cheesy bunny crackers
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great source of protein for long lasting energy.• Low sugar granola bars
• Trail mix
• Nut free trail mix
• Almonds
• Larabars
• Kind Bars
Dairy
Most kids like yogurt or string cheese. You can buy it in a large quantity and each is individually wrapped. Frozen yogurt squeezers make for a cool treat.
• Frozen yogurt squeezers
• String cheese
If you have time to whip up your own snacks, here are four homemade energy bars and bites recipes that don't require any fancy ingredients and are full of real ingredients like oats, seeds or nuts for protein-packed staying power to keep the hangries away. You most likely already have all the ingredients in your kitchen cabinet just waiting for you to whip up something delicious.
Three Ingredient Cookie Bites: tastes just like a cookie only with no baking and a much lower amount of sugar. The whole family will love this portable and popable treat.
Superfood Breakfast Bars: portable breakfast bars for anytime of the day.
Chocolate Cherry Trail Cups: a copycat Larabar in its own portable cup.
Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats Energy Bites: whole grain energy bars that are easy to make, healthy and portable for the whole family to snack on.
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