This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our Privacy Policy / Disclosures
As a grandparent, one of the greatest joys is spending time with your grandchildren, and what better way to bond than over delicious snacks? After a long day at school, kids often come home hungry and in need of a quick pick-me-up. Providing nutritious and tasty snacks can help them recharge and stay focused. Here are some easy, wholesome, and fun after-school snack ideas that your grandkids will love.
Fruit Kabobs:
Get creative with colorful fruit kabobs that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Simply skewer chunks of their favorite fruits, such as strawberries, grapes, pineapple, and melon, onto wooden skewers. For an extra special touch, add a dollop of yogurt or drizzle of honey for dipping. Shop here for 7″ bamboo skewers
Homemade Trail Mix:
Whip up a batch of homemade trail mix using a variety of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and whole grain cereals. Let your grandkids customize their own mix by offering an assortment of ingredients like almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, raisins, dried cranberries, and whole grain pretzels. Pack individual servings in small containers for grab-and-go convenience. Shop here for small snack containers.
Veggie Sticks with Hummus:
Keep things simple yet nutritious with a platter of fresh veggie sticks paired with creamy hummus for dipping. Offer a colorful array of veggies such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes. Hummus provides protein and fiber while adding a tasty twist to traditional veggie snacks.
Yogurt Parfaits:
Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fresh fruit to create irresistible yogurt parfaits. Let your grandkids choose their favorite yogurt flavors and toppings, such as sliced bananas, berries, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut. Not only are yogurt parfaits delicious, but they also provide a good source of calcium and probiotics for gut health.
Cheese and Crackers:
Keep things classic with a platter of cheese and crackers that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Offer a variety of cheese options, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss, paired with whole grain crackers or crispy breadsticks. Add some sliced fruit or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
Frozen Banana Pops:
Turn ordinary bananas into a fun and refreshing snack by making frozen banana pops. Simply insert wooden popsicle sticks into peeled bananas, dip them in melted chocolate or yogurt, and roll them in toppings like crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm.
Ants on a Log:
This classic snack never goes out of style and is perfect for little hands to assemble. Spread peanut butter or cream cheese onto celery sticks and top with raisins or other small dried fruits to create “ants” on a log. It’s a simple yet satisfying snack that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Mini Sandwiches:
Make mealtime fun with mini sandwiches that are perfect for little appetites. Use whole grain bread or mini pitas and fill them with a variety of kid-friendly fillings, such as peanut butter and jelly, cream cheese and cucumber, or turkey and cheese. Cut them into bite-sized pieces or fun shapes using cookie cutters for added appeal.
Popcorn Mix:
Popcorn is a versatile and satisfying snack that can be customized with a variety of flavors and mix-ins. Air-pop some popcorn and toss it with a sprinkle of seasoning, such as cinnamon sugar, ranch seasoning, or grated Parmesan cheese. Add in some dried fruit, nuts, or mini chocolate chips for an extra special treat.
Apple Nachos:
Put a playful spin on traditional nachos by swapping out tortilla chips for sliced apples. Arrange apple slices on a platter and drizzle them with melted peanut butter or caramel sauce. Sprinkle on toppings like granola, mini chocolate chips, and shredded coconut for a sweet and crunchy finish.
When it comes to after-school snacks for grandkids, the key is to keep things simple, tasty, and nutritious. By offering a variety of options that appeal to their taste buds and provide essential nutrients, you can ensure that snack time is a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. So stock up on these easy snack ideas and get ready to create lasting memories with your grandkids!
Here is a great book you can order: The Best Homemade Kids’ Snacks on the Planet: More than 200 Healthy Homemade Snacks You and Your Kids Will Love (Best on the Planet)
Do you have any other suggestions for fun and healthy afternoon snacks?
Leave a Reply