Now taking requests. I may not use them and secretly scoff behind your back, but I will graciously consider them. Like today. A new found BFF asked me to write about what to feed her kids for after school snacks. She genuinely wanted some good options. Not freaky, sprouted tofu options but enticing foods that kids would gladly eat. Given this is the first week of school for many of us, I felt it fitting. My post on sweaty back hair must wait til next time. (Certain to be a crowd favorite).
We live in the most convenient city on the planet. We have everything at our finger tips. And, for the right price, we can have it. All wrapped up nicely in plastic wrap. No extra work, no forethought, no preparation. This power, my friends, can be deadly when used carelessly. I’m talking about snacks. Snacks for you, snacks for your kids. It is SO EASY to go to the store and pick up the Frito Lay snak-pak of chips. Cheetos, Doritos, Sun Chips. Oreos, Nutter Butters, Lorna Doone. Food Coloring, Hydrogenated Oils, High Fructose Corn Syrup. Perfectly packaged for your kids. An allergy and ADHD cocktail. Trust me, you aren’t doing anyone any favors–unless you are the Frito Lay rep.
The key to having your kids eat healthier snacks is to stay ahead of the game. Make it convenient for better choices. That means plan. Just a little. Give them something to eat before they ask for it. Have a plate of cheese, hummus, veggies and nuts sitting out on the table. Or something yummy waiting in the fridge. Here are a few of my (and my kids’ favorites). Let me know yours.
Fresh Popped Popcorn in coconut oil. Back to my earlier ‘expose’ on the microwave kind, this popcorn is AWESOME. You have to get a Whirly Pop or one of those Cusinart machines. So worth it and fun to make.
ProBugs yogurt drinks are a favorite around here. 9 grams of protein plus probiotics. They come in several different flavors.
HAIL MERRY! Chocolate Macaroons are amazing. And made by my very BFF. Addicting to say the least!
Frozen Grapes. Just what it sounds like. Grapes in the freezer. They are addicting. On that note, there is a Zoku popsicle maker that you just pour in any kind of juice and it freezes it in less than 10 minutes. Super cool. http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/zoku-duo-quick-pop-maker/?pkey=cctlsptice
Edamame. Easy to make (buy it frozen, boil for 1 min, add sea salt) and you can keep in the fridge for a quickie.
Tias Ranch flavored tortilla chips. It is still junk food, but it is under the non-toxic junk food. These taste very much like their evil twin Doritos, but without the unrecognizable ingredients. REALLY yummy. For that matter good ole Lays chips and Fritos are atleast free of additives and creepy stuff. Add fresh salsa or guacamole.
Nitrate free beef and turkey jerky. Whole Foods has their own brand.
Frozen Lemonade. Grab a blender and add some natural lemonade and ice. Kids LOVE it!
Clif Bars. They are almost everywhere–and are free from junk additives.
Quesadillas with organic cheese and beans. Good stuff.
And the good old standby: Peanut butter and honey. Except choose organic (regular peanuts are RIDDLED with toxic pesticides). Almond butter is even better. On whole wheat bread, rice cakes, sliced apples or Elvis style on a banana.
http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/2011/DallasFortWorthEvent2011?px=6183831&pg=personal&fr_id=1622