Tips for Back to School (and Snack Ideas too!)

Grab some pencils and a notebook, because it’s time to go back to school! Every August, parents, teachers, and students prepare themselves for going back to school.

As a parent, you are probably getting all the new school supplies in order and preparing your kids to be back in the learning environment. There are some tips that you can use to make the transition from summer into academia a healthy one!

Whether you are a parent with a child going to school for the first time, or you have gone through back-to-school preparations many times before, a refresher on a few eating tips can’t hurt!

5 Tips for Parents:

Nutrition is a very important aspect of every stage of life, but children especially need the proper nutrients to stay healthy and strong. Getting your children into the right habits will help them later in life and will stay with them forever.

1. Eating a well-balanced breakfast is essential: Many studies have shown that children that eat a well-balanced breakfast before they get to school have more energy and better concentration throughout the school day.

2. Limit the added sugars: Limiting the amount of added sugars your child consumes throughout the day can help can reduce their risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes and Heart Disease.

3. Pack Nutritious Lunches: Choose whole grains over refined grains and choose fresh produce over fruit juices when you can. Whole grains and fresh produce offer more fiber which keeps fullness lasting longer.

4. Set a good example with what you (as the parent) eat: Children are very smart and if they see you eating an apple, they will want one too. Being a good role model in relation to food is crucial to them being more open to trying new foods and getting into healthy eating habits.

5. Dinner time reserved for family time: This may be difficult if your children are involved in many after school activities, but studies have shown that children that have family dinners have higher self-esteem and ultimately do better in school.

4 Yummy After-School Snacks

It is so easy to create delicious and nutritious after-school snacks that your children will rave about! When they have you as a role model setting a good example, they will understand the power of nutrition.

1. No-Bake Energy Bites: These pop-in-your-mouth snacks are filled with fiber, and protein to keep your child full of fuel after a long day.

2. Ants on a Log: This super fun snack combines celery, peanut butter, and raisins for texture and is a super fun way to get your kids to eat celery.

3. Trail Mix: This yummy snack provides healthy fats and antioxidants from nuts and dried fruits. Adding M&M’s add some sweetness that the kids will definitely enjoy.

4. Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites: These frozen treats are the perfect snack that provides the fuel your kids need to keep going until dinner.

Now you and your family can celebrate National Back to School Month knowing some tips to keep your children healthy, and by filling them with nutritious food!

Your turn to take action: What is one tip you learned that will stick with you most? Let me know in the comments below!

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