If your house is anything like mine you often hear the all too familiar call "Mom! I'm hungry!" around 3 o'clock in the afternoon. So today, I’m sharing a few tips that help me keep my kids’ after school hunger at bay and in between activities.
My first tip is a very popular one on my YouTube channel. That is, adding pre-made frozen smoothies inside my kids’ lunchboxes. By doing so, I’m able to keep their lunch cool; plus, they quench thirst and satisfy hunger at the same time.
I don’t know about your kids, but when my three are hungry, they want something, and they want it fast! For this tip I’ve partnered with Lance Sandwich Crackers, to show you how we often carry them with us on-the-go.
I love pairing the apple slices with a pack of Lance Toast Chee or Whole Grain crackers because they offer up to 5 grams of protein, made with real peanut butter or cheddar cheese; a combination kids just love.
For my middle son, who follows a gluten-free diet, I’ll add a pack of their Gluten-Free Sandwich Crackers.
A snack like Lance Sandwich Crackers is conveniently wrapped in individual packs, providing the opportunity to be enjoyed on-the-go and in between our kids’ activities.
Our next tip is about making sure the lunchbox has enough nutrition to keep kids satiated longer.
In many schools, lunch time can be as early as 10:30 and very short so making sure that kids get through most of their lunch is a good idea. I like packing things like pinwheels, which is essentially a wrap cut into smaller pieces so they can eat easily while still socializing with their friends.
Our next tip is one we often hear but don’t always associate with after-school hunger. That is, making breakfast part of your morning routine is essential for setting the kids up for success.
Two of my favorite breakfast ideas that are easy to make ahead of time include my quick breakfast burritos and overnight oats. They provide just the right amount of fuel and protein to help kids focus in school.
The last tip is to rule out thirst. Since thirst can often masquerade as hunger, it’s important to have water available at all times.
Tuck an extra water bottle in your kid’s backpack and offer a cup when they get home. To encourage drinking more water, make it more fun by placing fresh orange slices or berries inside their cup.
We all know that after-school hunger can strike at any moment, especially with kids, so ultimately, having a balanced snack on hand is a sure way to provide the fuel they need until dinnertime.
What are some of your go-to tips to keep kids’ hunger at bay after school and in between activities?
From time to time, I work with awesome companies to develop recipes for this website. Today's post was brought to you by Lance crackers and snacks. All opinions are 100% my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that encourage my creativity.
JD Coleman says
On Sundays I precut a bunch of veggies and put them in a large fruit/veggie Tupperware. The kids grab the container and eat whatever they want all week.
lisa franklin says
smoothies made with yogurt and fruit; unsalted peanuts and raisins, giant carrots they peel themselves and walk around with to eat, clementines. i like to stick with fruits and veggies so as not to ruin dinner appetites
Barb says
We always keep fresh fruits and veggies, Lance variety pack from Sam’s Club, fruit snacks, and popcorn on hand for afterschool snacks.
Kristy says
We love the fruit pouches for a quick, easy and healthy snack.
Sarah L says
My kids love making their own snacks. I always have the ingredients for wraps, fruit bowls or trail mix ready to go. Not only are they healthy and satisfying snacks, the activity keeps them busy while I finish up with my day!