It is important for kids to have a healthy lunch so they can concentrate in school and have the energy to play. Packing a lunch box with healthy snacks is an easy way to make sure your kids are getting the nutrition they need. With a little creativity, it is possible to make healthy and tasty snacks that will please even the pickiest of eaters.

little school girls sitting on bench eating their lunch

There are many healthy snack options that are perfect for kids' school lunch boxes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Cheese and Crackers:

Combine whole wheat crackers with string cheese, cheddar cheese cubes, or peanut butter for a filling and nutritious snack.

2. Yoghurt:

Choose plain yoghurt and add in some fresh fruit, granola, or honey for sweetness.

3. Veggies and Dip:

Pack carrot sticks, celery sticks, cucumber slices, or any other type of raw vegetables with a small container of ranch dressing, hummus, or another favourite dip.

4. Fruit Cups:

Consider using fruit cups and filling them with fresh fruits like apples, bananas, grapes, berries, or pears as a healthy and sweet snack option. 

5. Trail Mix:

Mix together your child's favourite nuts, dried fruits, and whole-grain cereals for a tasty and filling snack. Just be sure to watch the portion size, as trail mix can be high in calories.

6. Popcorn:

Air-popped popcorn is a healthy and low-calorie snack option. Season it with salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, or any other favourite spices.

7. Whole Grain Crackers:

Pack crackers made with whole wheat or another type of whole grain for a nutritious and filling snack. Serve them with cheese, peanut butter, or hummus for added protein and staying power.

8. Hard-Boiled Eggs:

A great source of protein, hard-boiled eggs can be eaten as is or used in a variety of snacks. Try slicing them and putting them on whole grain crackers, making an egg salad sandwich, or chopping them up to add to a salad.

9. Chicken:

Chicken is another excellent source of protein that can be used in a variety of snacks. Try packing pre-cooked chicken slices, shredded chicken, or even a small container of chicken salad for dipping crackers or veggies.

10. Tuna:

Tuna fish is another option for getting protein into kids' lunchtime snacks. Try mixing it with mayonnaise or plain yoghurt to make tuna salad, which can be served on crackers or bread, or packed as a dip for veggies.

11. Turkey:

Like chicken, turkey is a good source of protein that can be used in a variety of snacks. Try packing pre-cooked turkey slices, shredded turkey, or even a small container of turkey salad for dipping crackers or veggies.

12. Salmon:

Salmon is another healthy option for kids' lunchtime snacks. Try packing it in small containers with crackers or bread on the side for dipping.

13. Beans:

Beans are a nutritious and filling snack option for kids. Try packing them in small containers with crackers or bread on the side for dipping.

14. Seeds and Nuts:

Seeds and nuts are another nutritious and filling snack option for kids. Try mixing them together and packing them in small containers. Just be sure to watch the portion size, as they can be high in calories.

15. Peanut Butter:

Peanut butter is a beloved kids' snack, and for good reason! It's tasty, nutritious, and filling. Try spreading it on whole grain crackers or bread, or using it as a dip for fruits and veggies.

16. Sunflower Butter:

If your child has a peanut allergy, sunflower butter is a great alternative to peanut butter. It has a similar taste and texture and can be used in the same way as peanut butter.

17. Chocolate Milk:

Chocolate milk is a kids' favourite, but it can also be a healthy snack option. Choose milk that is low in fat and has no added sugar.

18. Smoothie:

A smoothie is a great way to pack in a lot of nutrients into one snack. Try blending together milk, yoghurt, fruit, and veggies for a filling and delicious smoothie.

19. Whole Grain Muffin:

A whole grain muffin is a hearty and filling snack option for kids. Choose muffins that are made with whole wheat or another type of whole grain, and have no added sugar.

20. Rice Cake:

A rice cake is a light snack option that is perfect for kids. They come in a variety of flavours, so there's sure to be one that your child will love. Just be sure to read the label, as some rice cakes can be high in sugar.

21. Greek Yogurt:

Greek yoghurt is a creamy and delicious snack option for kids. It's packed with protein and calcium and comes in a variety of flavours.

22. Cottage Cheese:

Cottage cheese is another nutritious and tasty snack option for kids. It's high in protein and calcium and can be served plain or with fruit or other toppings.

23. Fresh Fruit:

kids eating lunch at elementary school

Fresh fruit is always a good choice for a healthy snack. Try packing apples, bananas, oranges, berries, grapes, or any other type of fruit that your child enjoys.

24. Vegetables:

Fresh vegetables are another great choice for a healthy snack. Try packing carrots, celery, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, or any other type of vegetable that your child enjoys.

25. Popcorn:

Popcorn is a light and fluffy treat that children enjoy. Because it is a whole grain, it is high in nutrients and may be flavoured in a variety of ways. Simply avoid popcorn that is heavy in salt or sugar.

26. Chips:

Chips are a kids' favourite snack, but they can also be healthy if you choose the right kind. Look for chips that are made with whole grains and have no added salt or sugar.

27. Pretzels:

Pretzels are another kids' favourite snack. They're made with whole grains and are a good source of fibre. Just be sure to choose pretzels that have no added salt or sugar.

28. Fruit Leather:

Fruit leather is a chewy and delicious snack option for kids. It's made with natural fruit, so it's packed with nutrients. Just be sure to check the label, as some fruit leather can be high in sugar.

29. Dried Fruit:

Dried fruit is another nutritious and tasty snack option for kids. It's a good source of fibre and vitamins and comes in a variety of flavours. Just be sure to watch the portion size, as dried fruit can be high in calories.

30. Juice Box:

A juice box is a convenient and portable snack option for kids. Just be sure to choose juice that is 100% fruit juice, and has no added sugar.

 

These are just a few healthy snack ideas for kids. Just be sure to watch the portion size, as snacks can be high in calories. Choose snacks that are packed with nutrients and have no added sugar.

With so many delicious and healthy options available, there's sure to be a snack that your child will love!