Healthy School Snacks for Kids

Kids are natural snackers, which is why it’s a good idea to keep a stash of healthy snacks for kids in the house that are ready to pack in their lunch boxes or backpacks as they head to school. The right options not only taste great but also give kids the energy they need to power through the school day and to keep them going strong during after-school sports, activities, and playtime.

Here are 8 healthy school snacks for kids that parents can feel good about them eating:

Trail Mix – Homemade or store-bought, trail mix is a great way to mix protein, fiber, and other nutrients into one snack. Choose blends with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, and skip the candy-heavy mixes. This healthy trail mix takes minutes to make and is healthier than many store-bought versions. Pre-portioned bags make it an easy, healthy kid snack for school.

Whole Grain Granola Bars – Not all granola bars are created equal, so look for ones with minimal sugar and at least a few grams of protein or fiber. Even better than store-bought bars are these delicious and nutritious oatmeal breakfast bars that double as a satisfying snack. They’re the perfect snack ideas for kids at school, in the car, or before practice.

Roasted Chickpeas – Crispy, crunchy, and full of plant-based protein, roasted chickpeas make an excellent alternative to chips. They’re also naturally gluten free, making them one of the best gluten free snacks for kids. You can buy them ready-made or roast your own with spices in the oven or air fryer. These crispy chickpeas are easy to make and are tasty, too.

Fresh Fruit – Bananas, apples, clementines, and grapes are simple, no-prep healthy school snacks for kids. They travel well, provide natural sweetness, and are packed with vitamins and fiber. Pair with cheese cubes, nuts, or yogurt for a more filling, higher protein option. Or send kids to school with these fun-to-eat fruit kebabs with yogurt dipping sauce.

Nut Butter – Natural peanut, almond, or cashew butter has healthy fats and protein that help kids stay satisfied longer. Spread on whole-grain toast, dip apple slices, or portion into small containers for easy on-the-go snacking. This easy peanut butter and banana sandwich is a kid favorite. For nut-free schools, try sunflower seed butter instead.

Mini Veggie Packs – Carrot sticks, celery, or snap peas are crunchy snacks that kids can munch on anytime. To make them more satisfying, pair with a single-serve hummus cup or make your own garlic hummus and send it in a small container for a protein boost. These are also the perfect healthy kid snacks for school lunches since they’re mess-free and easy to pack.

Yogurt – Kid-friendly yogurt tubes and cups are fun and nutritious. Opt for low-sugar or Greek yogurt, which delivers extra protein and calcium for growing kids. Add fresh fruit or a sprinkle of granola or this almond muesli for a nutritious snack that feels like a treat.

String Cheese – Portable and fun to peel, string cheese is a classic protein snack for kids. It’s rich in calcium and helps keep kids full between meals. Pair it with whole-grain crackers for a balanced pick-me-up that provides fiber and steady energy. Or send kids to school with a healthier cheese quesadilla for a tasty treat.

Stocking your fridge and pantry with healthy snacks for kids makes it easier for them to make better choices on their own and also makes packing their lunch box and backpack for school less stressful each morning. When wholesome options like fruit, yogurt, roasted chickpeas, healthy trail mix, and protein-rich snacks are just as easy to grab as chips or cookies, kids are more likely to eat foods that keep them fueled, focused, and feeling good throughout the day.