As a mom, I know how homework time can be.... we have tried to set up routine, find the right time. I know afterschool my daughter wants some time to "relax" before homework and with soccer, dance, band and other extra curriculars, it is tough to keep on schedule sometimes.One thing is for certain, that afterschool snack can make whatever the plans are, a little smoother. There are a lot of great posts with after school snack ideas - but this one had some quick and easy, healthy ideas...
As a parent trying to help your children learn, sometimes it's beneficial to look past the books to find other ways to help them succeed. The perks of a healthy diet are widespread and well-known and can also have a substantial impact on how students perform in school. As the old saying goes, we are what we eat, so why not give your kids nourishing, nutritious food? Before parents sit down to help with homework or provide school work help, they should try giving kids brain fuel: healthy snacks that can promote energy, concentration and vitality. Take a look at these great options that all kids will love:
Ants on a log
A more old-fashioned choice, ants on a log has been a favorite simple, friendly snack for generations. It packs protein, fiber, healthy fat and crunch, so kids may not even realize it's healthy. To make ants on a log, spread peanut butter into the crevices of celery stalks and dot the stalk with raisins.
A more old-fashioned choice, ants on a log has been a favorite simple, friendly snack for generations. It packs protein, fiber, healthy fat and crunch, so kids may not even realize it's healthy. To make ants on a log, spread peanut butter into the crevices of celery stalks and dot the stalk with raisins.
Fruit smoothies
Smoothies are sweet and personalizable, so kids of all ages are sure to find varieties they love. Everything from bananas and strawberries to mangos and oranges go great in smoothies and provide a great base for more unique flavors. Parents can add yogurt or flax seeds for added protein, or even sneak spinach and other leafy greens into the smoothie to trick kids into eating their vegetables.
Smoothies are sweet and personalizable, so kids of all ages are sure to find varieties they love. Everything from bananas and strawberries to mangos and oranges go great in smoothies and provide a great base for more unique flavors. Parents can add yogurt or flax seeds for added protein, or even sneak spinach and other leafy greens into the smoothie to trick kids into eating their vegetables.
Hummus
Kids love dipping, and hummus may just become their new favorite! This Mediterranean dip can satisfy a salty craving and goes great with vegetables, pita or crackers. Made primarily from chick peas, hummus is a protein-packed snack that will help keep them going until dinner time.
Kids love dipping, and hummus may just become their new favorite! This Mediterranean dip can satisfy a salty craving and goes great with vegetables, pita or crackers. Made primarily from chick peas, hummus is a protein-packed snack that will help keep them going until dinner time.
Mini pizza crackers
Pizza is one of many kids' favorite foods, and in being creative, parents can create healthier snack-sized versions! Top large crackers or mini pitas with sauce and have kids add their own toppings – vegetables or meats should do the trick – before sprinkling with cheese. Place them into the oven for a few minutes until they're golden and bubbly, then your treats are ready to go.
Pizza is one of many kids' favorite foods, and in being creative, parents can create healthier snack-sized versions! Top large crackers or mini pitas with sauce and have kids add their own toppings – vegetables or meats should do the trick – before sprinkling with cheese. Place them into the oven for a few minutes until they're golden and bubbly, then your treats are ready to go.
Candied chickpeas
If kids like snacks that are sweet and crunchy, candied chickpeas are a great way to satisfy both cravings. Check out the Northwestern University Spoon's recipe for roasted cinnamon sugar chickpeas that have just the right amount of sweetness.
If kids like snacks that are sweet and crunchy, candied chickpeas are a great way to satisfy both cravings. Check out the Northwestern University Spoon's recipe for roasted cinnamon sugar chickpeas that have just the right amount of sweetness.
http://www.pearsonathome.com/parent-enrichment/five-after-school-snacks-to-keep-kids-satisfied-through-homework-time/
