by Ellen Page

Created on: May 12, 2011   Last Updated: March 12, 2012

Kids are constantly on-the-go, they are burn lots of energy throughout the day, so they may need snacks to keep them fuelled and energized. Kids often become hungry, which can lead to crankiness if they are not satisfied. To keep hunger at bay whilst keeping energy levels up, there are many nutrient-rich snacks that are great for on-the go to keep kids happy.

Here some healthy snack ideas:

• Preparing snacks

Place easy to eat snacks in bags or food containers and have them easily accessible for kids to be able to snack on-the-go. Select foods that store well and that won’t perish, as well as food items that are not too messy to eat. Healthy snacks are a good way to ensure kids get important vitamins and minerals, as they are likely to eat healthy foods as part of a snack that are bite size when they are hungry. Offer a good variety of snacks and don’t forget to allow for some sweet treats, too.

• Fruit and veggies

Sliced up fresh fruit and veggies are easy to prepare, they make an ideal healthy energy boosting snack, and are easy to eat on-the-go. Offer a good variety to provide a colorful nutritious snack. Fruit and veggies that are cut into manageable pieces are far more appealing than whole foods, as kids can handle them easier. Busy children will happily munch through these when they are hungry. Fruits and veggies are nutritious and are an essential part of a healthy diet.

• Raisins and dried fruit

Juicy plump raisins make an ideal snack, as they are easily portable and are great to munch on-the-go. A handful of raisins will provide key vitamins and nutrients, providing a great healthy snack. Raisins are a fuss free snack, as they require no preparation. They come packaged in individual boxes for convenience.  However, a large bag is better value for money, and is easy to divide up into little containers. Dried fruits are tasty and nutritious, and there is a good variety available to offer a different snack.

• Trail mix

This nutritious snack is packed with fiber, and provides energy for busy active kids. It is an easy to eat on-the-go snack that is easily portable. Trail mix can be purchased ready-made, and there are many varieties on offer. It is easy to whip up a homemade batch, which gives control over what is put into the mix. Keep it healthy and avoid adding candy and sugar laden treats, as this snack is sweetened by dried fruit. Trail mix can be adapted to keep it interesting, so that there are different flavors and textures to enjoy.

• Cereal and popcorn

Dry cereal is easily portable, and is a nutritious snack for any time of the day. There are many types of cereal that can be transferred into a food bag to provide a great on-the-go snack. Kids will happily munch on cereal, and as they are dry they create little mess. Popcorn is a favorite with kids, and it is a snack that is versatile, as it comes in many flavors. It is another dry food that is easy to eat on-the-go, and is filling and tasty.

• Sweet treats

Whilst parents and caregivers aim to encourage healthy eating, a good balance is essential to improve a child’s eating habits. Providing the occasional sweet treat will ensure that kids eat a good variety of foods, and are less likely to binge on sugary foods, if they are given little and often. Homemade cookies and muffins can be baked ahead of time, and they can be made in bulk to provide a tasty treat. They take little time to prepare, and are highly popular with kids.

These great on-the-go snacks are nutritious, tasty and filling. They are easy to prepare and are easily portable, making them great snacks for busy kids.

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