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In the Kitchen: 15 Snacks for School Days

Snacks play an important role nutritionally, especially for children and people with small appetites. Children and some adults may not be able to get the nutrients and energy they need from meals alone. This is where snacks come in. Snacks can help provided the necessary nutrients and energy for kids to grow healthily, and can provide a boost of energy throughout the day. In fact, snack time may be the key to feeling good, staying focused, and doing everything on your schedule.

Choosing healthy snacks can help children and adults meet the nutrition recommendations from MyPlate. We’ve pulled together some of our favorite snacks from across MyPlate to help you bridge the gap between meals. 

sliced apples around bowl of yogurt, set on green plate; wood background

This sweet dip is the perfect way to enjoy a crisp apple. 

Bowl of baked banana chips

Crunchy and sweet, banana chips are simple to make. With just  two ingredients, they make a healthy, tasty snack for at home or on the go.

browned cereal and pita chips on a metal baking sheet

Cereal snack mix can be a great way to add more whole-grains to the day. Plus, it makes a perfect on-the-go snack! 

graham crackers in hummus topped with chocolate chips in a blue bowl on a blue placemat

A sweet version of classic savory hummus, this recipe is just like the real thing! Enjoy the taste of raw cookie dough without the bacterial risk, plus a little protein and fiber.

Cottage Cheese and CNP Herb Ranch Seasoning combine to create a healthier Ranch-like dip, perfect for veggies.

Two glasses of yogurt, strawberries, blueberries and granola

Creamy yogurt, sweet fruit, and crunchy granola are not only a perfect match in flavor, but also a good balance of food groups. Enjoy your fruit parfait with your favorite fruit and remember, all forms count: fresh, frozen, canned, and dried. 

Hard boiled eggs cut in half to show the yellow center

Eggs are a great source of protein and when hard-boiled, can go in lunchboxes and coolers. Enjoy them on their own, Deviled, or in egg salad

hummus in blue bowl with sliced red peppers, carrots, and celery on a cream colored board with a brown placemat

This savory chickpea dip tastes great with many seasoning combinations. Spread on bread for a tasty sandwich or enjoy with veggie sticks!

Crisped kale chips laid on parchment paper on a metal cookie sheet

These crispy kale bites are a great way to get in a serving of vegetables without giving up the potato chip crunch.

Bowl of salsa made with beans, tomatoes, corn, and peaches.

Chips and salsa make a tasty snack. Change up your salsa routine with this fruity, tangy Peach Black Bean Salsa

rolled peanut butter balls on white plate

Nutty, a little sweet, and so satisfying, try peanut butter balls when your next sweet treat craving hits. 

Bowl of granola on a wooden background

Crispy and lightly sweetened, this granola is perfect for a make ahead breakfast or grab and go snack!

Three cups of popcorn in red and white striped boxes on a wooden background. Popcorn has different kinds of spices on it.

Popcorn makes a tasty snack and it is a whole grain. Pop it from kernels and add your favorite spices for a perfect homemade treat!

Rice cakes topped with yogurt and fruit

Rice cakes provide a crisp base for this tasty snack or simple dessert. Pick your favorite fruits for a healthy sweet!

roasted chickpeas spilling out of a red bowl onto a brown background

This crunchy snack is quick to bake and they disappear fast! Try these beans with your favorite mix of spices.

* The Cent$ible Nutrition Program is funded by USDA SNAP-Ed and EFNEP. SNAP-Ed assists individuals and families who receive, or are eligible to receive, benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). EFNEP assists families and youth with limited resources  in acquiring the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and changed behaviors necessary for nutritionally sound diets and contributes to their personal development and the improvement of total family diet and nutritional welfare. Visit our Qualify page to learn more. 

This material was funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. This material was funded by USDA’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program-EFNEP. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. The full nondiscrimination statement can be found here

Issued in furtherance of extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Kelly Crane, Director, University of Wyoming Extension, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming Extension, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming 82071.

The University of Wyoming is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution.

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