Healthy snack ideas

You have an important role in developing your child’s knowledge in, and attitudes, to healthy eating and oral health.

Read the transcript for this film 'healthy snack ideas'

A varied, tasty and enjoyable diet as a child supports lifelong healthy eating habits.

Pre-school children have small appetites and need regular meals and healthy snacks in between to help their growth and development.

Some suggestions for healthy snacks:

  • Bite-sized fresh fruit - apple, pear, satsuma, orange, banana, kiwi, melon or strawberries.
  • Chopped raw vegetables - carrot, pepper, cucumber, celery, cherry tomato and courgette.
  • Toast & bread - toast, bread rolls or French bread with a small amount of polyunsaturated spread.
  • Small sarnies - sandwiches with cheese, tuna, thin slices of meat. Pitta bread pockets – on their own or with a filling.
  • Muffins, pancakes & crumpets - specifically, English muffins, Scotch pancakes & crumpets.
  • Potato or corn snacks.
  • Oatcakes & other nibbles - Low salt oatcakes, rice cakes, crackers, and crispbreads.
  • Yoghurts - Natural yoghurt or plain fromage frais with fresh fruit.

Dried fruit has a high nutritional value and is counted as one of their five-a-day. However, as it sticks to teeth and contains a lot of sugar, it can cause dental decay; it should be given at mealtimes only. Get more information on hidden sugar in food and drinks.

2.2.3_Bite sized fruit and vegetables

Foods and drinks containing sugar should be kept to a minimum and are best given at mealtimes.

Snacks on the go for older children are important to maintain their energy levels, you should still provide snacks that are healthy and tasty.