There’s nothing worse than a ‘hangry’ child, and as any parent knows, snacks are your best friend when toddlers turn. But it’s not always easy to know what fun and healthy snacks for kids you should be serving.

Well, you’re not alone. A recent study by Sabre, which interviewed 2,500 parents of school-age children, found that the vast majority (85%) of parents want to provide better snack choices for their children than they had as kids. But, such are the realities of being a busy parent, that two in five parents simply don’t have the time to provide healthy snacks.

If you are in the 63% of parents that wish that rustling up healthy snacks for kids wasn’t so time consuming then read on. We’ve got 15 quick, fun healthy snacks for kids that take no time at all.

Guidelines around popular kids snacks

But first, it’s worth knowing what the current recommendations are for healthy snacks for todders uk.

According to NHS and ‘Change 4 Life’ guidelines, fruit and veg are the best snacks for kids.

Since children under 1 year’s old don’t really need to snack, it tends to apply to children over this age. They suggest that if your child is having packaged snacks, then aim for just two snacks a day maximum.

Healthy snacks are a good way to top up little one’s energy levels, as well as plug the gap on busier days when mealtime schedules go awry. In fact healthy snacks on the go, can be handy for fussy eater toddlers, ensuring they maintain energy levels and nutrients. It’s not just for the home though, toddler snack ideas for daycare can be helpful to have to hand, especially at pick-up time.

Healthy snacks on the go

Make your life easy for the busier days, and always have the following easy to hand:

• Travel-size plastic containers or pots
• Freezer bags
• A kids cooler bag
• A plastic kids plate to take with you (see below)
• Reusable water bottle
• Plenty of wipes!

Inspiration - fun healthy snacks for kids

Here’s 14 super easy and super quick healthy snacks for toddler recipes and ideas.

1.Fruit kebab

When it comes to fun healthy snacks for kids, these are visually appealing and ever so tasty. Using skewers alternate sliced grapes, banana, strawberries, and orange. This one needs supervision when serving.

2. Hard-boiled egg

Make this your go-to on the go! Boil beforehand and store in your cooler bag, it’s like a mini meal and highly satisfying! It’s also an excellent source of high-quality protein.

3. Sticks and dips

Sliced carrots, cucumber and breadsticks are the perfect dipping friend, along with hummus to dip dip into!

4. Avocado on whole grain bread

Such a delicious treat, and one that takes no time at all to make.

5. Rice cakes topped with cream-cheese and cucumber

One of the yummy recommendations on the Change 4 Life site.

Simple, delicious and even more appealing when served on a fun kids plate!

7. Malt loaf slice

An approved healthy Snack for Toddlers and Preschoolers, a slice of malt loaf cake is always a winner.

8. Oatcakes with peanut butter

These can be a little dry, so always have a drink to hand, or serve with fruit like tangerine segments

9. Melon lollipops

It couldn’t be easier, simply cut watermelon into triangle wedges and serve on a stick!

10. Cucumber sandwiches

This one doubles up as a snack for kids lunch boxes too. Simply cut some cucumber slices up, and let your child fill them with cheese, ham, or crackers, as a sandwich filler.

11. Quinoa chips (crisps)

Did you know these can be softer than normal ones, as well as higher in protein – it’s a win-win.

12. Watermelon towers

You don’t need to be a food artist to make fun healthy snacks for kids. Watermelon slices stacked atop each other is a fun creative preschool snack idea.

13. Pita bread triangles and bean dip

If you’re plumping for a healthy snack option, then opt for wholegrain pitta. This is a popular kids snack, especially for fussy eaters.

14. Banana and peanut butter

Since 69% of parents want their kids to eat more plant-based foods (according to the above study), this is a great alternative to animal-based foods.

15. Cold penne with tomato dip

We’re all about minimising waste, so save some of your penne pasta from the night before and serve with a tomato dip.

There you have it, 15 delicious, quick and healthy snacks for toddlers and young children.