After-School Snacks: Quick and Healthy Energy-Giving Treats

In the 21st century, kids do not have it easy anymore. They have multiple engagements throughout the day, be it tuition, karate classes, or dance lessons, and that too after more than 6 hours of rigorous discipline, challenging classes, and stressful triggers. But instead of being able to rest or have fun after a grueling day of education, they are whisked away to their next obligation.

Of course, all of it does contribute to their progress, but what about their physical well-being and mental peace? That is why school kids should be given proper rest and a healthy and energy-giving after-school treat that combines nutrition and enjoyment. While the tasty flavors work magic on their taste buds, nourishment slips in and keeps them going. Here are some quick and easy energy-boosting after-school snacks to treat your little one's next time.

Quick And Healthy Energy-Giving Treats

1. Apple and Peanut Butter

Apple slices with peanut butter are an excellent snack combination that not only helps regulate weight and calories but also reduces inflammation and blood sugar levels while promoting heart and digestive health. Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Being a natural energy booster, they work more effectively and nutritiously than caffeine on our bodies. Combine sweet and tart apple slices with the luscious creaminess of peanut butter, which holds its own by aiding in digestion, metabolism, and regulating sugar levels, and you have a perfect after-school snack for kids that is healthy and tasty.

2. Homemade Fruit Roll-Ups

Fruit roll-ups are always fun and convenient to eat on the go. Thanks to the jerky-like texture, of pureed fruits, instead of meat, tearing and chewing them gives equal delight to kids and adults. But instead of going for the store-bought brands which are mostly filled with sugar and artificial sweeteners, it is better to make these easy treats at home with honey, maple syrup, or brown molasses. All you need is a microwave oven, your choice of fruits, and a handful of home ingredients. And this is the perfect set-up to feed your fussy, fruit-hating kid some gifts of nature in a unique, healthy, and convenient way.

3. Fruit Ice pops

Fruity ice pops or ice lollies are an easy and convenient way of sneaking some fruits and color into the meals of school kids who wrinkle their noses at the sight of fruit. Use berries, kiwis, and citrusy fruits to make a juice and then pour it into ice-cream molds. But remember to spare a few extra to sprinkle within the molds. That way, your kid gets their way of having a cool treat after school, while you get to feed them some fruits brimming with antioxidants to give them the energy they need to get through the day.

4. Multi-grain quesadilla in Indian Style

Quesadillas, a primarily Mexican cuisine dish, is a favorite among kids and adults alike, thanks to their simple and cheesy taste. But since most quesadillas at restaurants come loaded with fat and carbs, most do not consider them as healthy snacks. But what if you made them nutritious? Swap the usual tortillas for multigrain or whole wheat options, and use shredded cheddar and mozzarella, or grated parmesan cheese, instead of high-fat processed cheeses. Make sour cream at home, instead of going for mayo or other high-fat sauces. Use fresh vegetables and grill the quesadilla well, with minimal oil, to make a filling, nutritious, and energy-giving after-school snack.

5. Homemade Energy Bites

Energy Bites are a great way of introducing superfoods into the diets of school kids without boring them. Use some rolled oats, nut butter of choice, seeds of choice, honey, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract to create a simple, easy-to-make, no-bake set of nutritious balls that fulfill most body requirements, like protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, energy, and important minerals. Box up a couple of homemade energy bites for emergency ration in your kids' bag and have them rarely down in the dumps, even during summer.

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Quick and Convenient energy-giving after-school snack recipes that are both healthy and delicious

1. Energy Bites recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ⅔ cup shredded coconut (preferably toasted)
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ⅓ cup honey
• ½ cup ground flax seeds
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

• Take all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir thoroughly, till everything is combined well.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture till it is chilled. That will help the ingredients stick together better.
• Roll them into balls, or shape of your choice.
• Serve and enjoy. Energy bites can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 1 week, and kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Using these quick and healthy energy-giving snack ideas will not only rejuvenate your school kid after a bad day, but prepare them for what lies ahead. Not only will these after-school snacks serve as treats for them, but the whole family can enjoy these snacks guilt-free. Easy-to-make and store, these snacks will not only nourish your kid’s stomach but also evolve their minds and taste buds.