Food is fuel, and sensible snacks can bridge the gap between meals.
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Whether in the classroom or on the playground, children need enough energy — and proper nutrition — to get them through the day.
Dr. Tina Ardon, a Mayo Clinic family medicine physician, says planning for snack time can teach kids healthy habits while keeping them full.
Food is fuel, and sensible snacks can bridge the gap between meals.
Build snacks, including whole grains, fruits and vegetables, into your grocery list.
As for portions, elementary-aged kids need about a cup-and-a-half of fruits and vegetables per day — growing to about two-and-a-half cups per day for older kids.
“Cut up some raw vegetables and have some of that fruit prewashed so you can grab those quickly throughout the day,” says Dr. Ardon. “It’s much easier to grab something that’s available to you versus going in and finding something that’s less healthy.”
Sticking to a routine can help kids become more comfortable making healthy choices.
