Healthy after-school snacks the kids will love

We’ve rounded up six super little snacks to help you make healthy eating part of the school day. Have one of these fun and tasty treats ready when the kids get back from school and the thought of crisps or chocolate won’t even cross their minds!

We know that finding healthy after-school snacks can be tricky, so we’ve rounded up seven recipes that the kids will love munching on, helping you to make healthy eating part of the weekday routine. There are savoury muffins, fruity granola bars and nutrient-packed smoothie ice lollies – all fun, delicious treats to have ready when the kids get home.

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Packed full of goodness and really filling, these delicious muffins are made with cottage cheese, mixed seeds, spring onions and either butternut squash or sweet potato – whichever you prefer. Make a batch and they’ll be great for breakfast on–the-go, too.

So easy to make, this classic houmous recipe is a simple blend of chickpeas and tahini (sesame seed paste). High in protein, fibre and with more than 10 micronutrients – including a hefty amount of the mineral copper, which keeps hair and skin nice and healthy – this is a great, nutritious after-school snack.

The best thing about making your own granola bars is you can decide exactly what you pack them with. This recipe uses sour cherries or cranberries, along with apricots and dates. Once you master the basic principle, get creative with your favourite flavours, and get the kids involved, too.

Delicious mouthfuls of seeds, nuts, dates, cocoa, honey and warming spices – these little balls are the business! Great for a burst of energy after a busy day at school, and a handy, healthy snack to pop into pockets or lunchboxes the following day.

More: Quick and healthy recipes

Have fun with a varied selection of veg (think baby carrots, long radishes and different lettuce leaves), then serve with this gorgeously fresh mint, pea and yoghurt dip. Takes just 10 minutes to make, and even less time to eat!

If you haven’t already, have a whirl at making this roasted kale recipe. You won’t believe how sweet, nutty and crispy the leaves turn in the oven. Pair with mixed toasted nuts and you’ll be surprised at just how quickly these super-greens will be gone.

Fruit smoothies & ice lollies

Jamie and Jools’ kids love these super-simple smoothies for breakfast, but pour them into ice lolly moulds, pop them in the freezer and they make brilliant after-school snacks. Have fun with whatever fruit your kids love most, then add a scoop of oats and seeds to pack in even more of the good stuff – and it’ll help keep them going until dinnertime!

For more healthy meal inspiration, check out our healthy lunch ideas for kids.