So your children are hanging around all the time on summer break, but never seem to wander too far from the fridge. Here are some ways to prepare some healthy choices for them to self-serve in the fridge.
Buying produce is healthy and is enjoyed by many kids, but needs a little work in order to make it an “easy” choice. Pre-washing and prepping veggies and fruit and putting them into small bags for little hands will really make them more enticing.
These are some ideas for kids to promote healthy eating choices during the summer. If you are not fortunate enough to have a fridge with a pull-out kid drawer, you can make your own designated area using a plastic tub. The picture below shows a tub for the fridge and a tub of non-refrigerated snacks.
If you are looking for a healthy frozen treat, here are 2 ideas. You can freeze fresh fruit in a spoonful of yogurt on a cookie sheet. Once frozen, they can be popped off and put into bags for small, individual treats. Freezing your favorite smoothie in a small cup with a straw or stick in the middle will create a healthy pop. These frozen, sweet treats would be delicious on a hot day.
There are SO many great, healthy choices that come in individual packaging for kids. Grocery stores cater to our need for healthy, easy snacks for our children. Low fat string cheese, small size yogurt, individual hummus to dip veggies in, pre packaged apple slices etc. are just a few choices in the refrigerated section. There are many healthy choices for crackers, pretzels and cookies- also don’t forget the variety of granola bars.
Labeling a bin and placing those items inside, putting them on a low shelf within reach will help encourage kids to serve themselves. Using a picture tag may be helpful for pre-readers.
Putting kid-friendly dishes and utensils in a lower cabinet will help to encourage independence. Starting with smaller meals like breakfast and lunch to promote kids helping at meal times would be very beneficial. Teaching children how to provide for their own meals will make life easier when teenage years are upon us.
Even if your child is not helping themselves, the prepping ahead method will help your entire family to eat more healthy choices. Preparing your healthy snacks ahead will help to eliminate throwing away items that went bad before being used as well as help you to avoid stopping for a drive-thru fast food meal.
Happy, healthy snacking!
