Even though my appetite decreases in the summer my kid seem to be just as hungry as ever. When it is hot no one wants heavy meals so eating throughout the day is best. It is also important to stay hydrated in the hot summer days. So allowing the kids to graze on healthy refreshing snacks will keep them satisfied. I also like to make sure I have plenty of ice cold water on hand to prevent my kids from consuming too much sugar.
Fun Snacks for Summer:
Watermelon: It is sweet, refreshing, crisp, light, and full of water. Everyone one craves on a hot summer day. It is also an easy and inexpensive snack to have on hand. Just keep some sliced in an airtight container in the fridge for snacking.
Fruit Kabobs: You can use toothpicks and make a big plate of mini fruit kabobs perfect for little snacking hands. Simple add grapes, pineapples, melons, or any fruit in season. Simple, delicious, no cooking required and you can use whatever fruit you already have in your kitchen. You make an easy dip by mixing yogurt and fat free whipped topping together until smooth.
Veggies and dip: I have found with the right dressing my kids will consume large amounts of vegetables. Our favorite dressing is Garlic Expressions. Most kids like ranch but my kids prefer Italian type dressings. I like to have carrot sticks, broccoli, celery and peppers cut up and ready for dipping. I will also make mini salads with spinach for them to munch on.
Snacking this summer does not have to be difficult. Try to be creative by serving it on cute plates or using ice cream bowls for fruit. Kids are enticed by what they see so if you make a feast for the eyes your ordinary fruit will become