As a dad it is often so easy to stop off and get a candy bar, ice cream or something quick, fatty and not very good for your child. Lately, I've been getting better at choosing better snacks for my kids, pre-planning trips and taking into account duration, food access, and having snacks handy from recent grocery purchases to keep costs down. I hate buying anything other than gas at a gas station. I usually try to keep things clean, simple and shelf-stable depending on where we're headed. Things like beef jerky, sandwiches, organic suckers, cereal/granola bars, fruit bars, and nuts are snacks we usually incorporate into a busy day. I've attached some links that also have some good ideas to maintain your child's health during busy work weeks. If you have any other ideas let me know! I fall into habits pretty easily.
http://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/feeding/healthy-eating/the-20-best-snacks-for-kids/
http://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler-nutrition/healthy-snacks-for-kids.aspx
Hi Stephen!
ReplyDeleteThe busy on-the-go snacking/meals have become quite common in our house now that the kids are having more activities. And being budget and health conscious absolutely means avoiding gas stations and fast food! I buy those snack sized ziplocks and fill them with various snacks like cereal, pretzels, and fruit at the beginning of the week. Then, when we are on the fly or I am making lunches, I can grab those quickly and easily. I also make several PB&Js and have those in the fridge daily and those tend to be a popular choice for breakfast. This is convenient for busy times, but also eliminates my children getting resourceful and choosing their own snacks if I am busy or away from the kitchen.
Great blog - I can relate! And yay for Minnesota! I am from there also!