5 Favorite Summer Snacks for Kids

It took some time, and rain, but summer is here. Like most parents, I often find myself stuck trying to find a healthy quick snack for my kiddos. It's hot, they are active, and you want something that is not only healthy, but something they will actually eat and enjoy. Most of us, also, don't have time to try every awesome pinterest recipe we find. So I try to K.I.S.S. This way I can grab and go.

Here is my go to, top 5 snacks for summer. My girls love them, and will ask for them often.

1. Frozen Grapes

My girls think frozen grapes are just the best thing ever. If I don't have a couple of containers available, they will remind me. Frozen grapes are refreshing, and perfect for hot summer days. We will also take bags of these with us to the movies, for a sweet treat. I think they are slightly better once they start to defrost. 

2. Cucumber and Watermelon Hydration Smoothie

This has become a new favorite at our house this summer, and its very simple. Cube up the desired amount of seedless watermelon, 1/4 the amount of cucumber, a couple of mint leaves, and blend away. You can freeze the watermelon cubes before, if you you'd like. My kiddos like there a little runnier. You could also take this same smoothie and make it into popsicles.

3. Sugar Snap Peas - Straight From the Garden

If you have space for these in your garden, these little gems are amazing for kids. Fresh off the plant they are full of sweetness. My kids will eat them as is. If your need a little coaxing, try offering some tatziki sauce, or hummus. 

These can be planted early, as they can handle a bit of frost. My kids love going out to the garden and looking for them. If you don't have space for a garden, per se, try growing them in a pot on the porch. 

4. Homemade Jerky

You could also buy a good quality store bought version, but we typically make our own deer and elk jerky every year. Chidren's little bodies need ample amounts of B vitamins during the summer to endure their busy, active days. B12 is important for physical development and stamina. Good quality red meat provides a good source of B vitamins, and minerals needed to replenish lost electrolytes. 

5. Ants on a Log

Do remember this from your childhood?
 This is still one of my all time favorite snacks, even as an adult. Get creative and mix it up. My oldest does not like raisins, so substitute dried cranberries, or unsweetened dried blueberries. For those of you who are NOT familiar with this snack, its simple. Take a celery stick, smear with nut butter of choosing, and top with dried fruit. DONE.

Celery is crunchy, and hydrating. It is rich in vitamins A, K and potassium. Nut butters are rich in Vitamins E, B's, Magnesium, and Potassium, and depending on the fruit you use, you'll also be giving them a good boost of antioxidants.