Snacks for Kids

Nutrition experts agree that snacks are an important part of healthy eating for children. This is especially important for children who are on the go. Their nutritional needs change as they grow and as they are more physically active throughout the week. Snacks give kids staying power when they start to run out of steam between meals. A quick energy boost can delay fatigue that leads to crankiness or ultimately discourages them from participating in physical activity. The key to healthy eating, including snacking is in providing a balance of food choices that your child can enjoy. So, instead of eliminating snacks, plan for them and help guide your children to balanced food choices. For example, Holy Cow bars provide quick energy in the form of carbohydrate and milk proteins, as well as part of the daily recommendations for vitamins and minerals that every child needs.

Feeding your Active Child

Your child may not be a Super Athlete, but all active children need carbohydrates, protein and fat to get them through school, gym and after-school activities. Even sitting in class requires brain food. The food groups which supply these nutrients are indicated in italics, along with Canada’s Food Guide recommended servings in the colour boxes below each food group. School-aged children should eat from the lower to middle range. If your child is even moderately active, he or she may need more calories than an adult, so let them choose the higher number of servings.

Girls between 7 and 9 years have energy needs similar to adult women. Energy requirements are even higher for girls aged 10 to 12, and boys aged 7 to 12.