The word ‘snack’ often conjures up images of chocolate biscuits, sugary snack bars, sweets and crisps, all of which should be eaten sparingly. Many children enjoy a snack between meals and indeed most schools now provide a mid-morning snack to boost children’s energy levels (and therefore help concentration) until lunchtime. Snacks need not be sugar heavy and can be just as nutritious as a meal. Here are some suggestions for healthy snacks suitable for home or school:
* a small savoury or fruit pot (for suggestions, see here)
* a slice of ham or cheese between crackers
* a small savoury sandwich, wrap or roll
* cream cheese or peanut butter in celery sticks
* a slice of pizza or quiche
* samosa, onion bhaji or pakora
* a sausage or soy-sausage roll
* a slice of fruit loaf, a fruit bun or a scone
And don’t forget the drink. Whenever a child has a snack they should also have a drink of water. It is as important to keep the body hydrated as it is to provide it with energy from food.