Jenna DeMoss: Fun and healthy – Summer nutrition ideas for active kids – Austin Daily Herald

As the days get longer and warmer, kids are looking forward to the freedom that summer vacation brings. But for parents and caregivers, helping kids maintain a balanced diet and stay active can be a challenge, especially with lazy days and the temptation of sweet treats. But with a little planning and creativity, kids can stay nourished and healthy all summer long.

One of the most effective ways to accomplish this is to stock plenty of nutritious snacks for a variety of summer occasions. Whether it’s pool days, play dates with friends, road trips, or family picnics, having a variety of nutritious snacks on hand will help fuel your kids’ bodies with the nutrients they need to thrive all summer long.

With all this in mind, here are my top 4 snacks to have on hand for any summer occasion.

Frozen Fruit Skewers: Thread colorful chunks of watermelon, pineapple, grapes, and strawberries onto skewers for a refreshing, hydrating treat. Freeze overnight and enjoy for a cool, refreshing snack.

Homemade Trail Mix: Mix a variety of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and dark chocolate chips for a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Portion into individual bags for an easy, on-the-go snack.

Veggie Wraps: Crispy lettuce, sliced ​​peppers, cucumber, carrots and hummus in a whole wheat wrap for a crisp, nutritious and easy meal. Customize with your child’s favorite veggies for extra fun.

Greek Yogurt Parfait: Creamy Greek yogurt with fresh berries, granola and a drizzle of honey makes a delicious, protein-packed snack or dessert. Let your kids get creative with the layers to create their own personalized parfait.

Not only are these snacks delicious and nutritious, but they’re easy enough for kids to help prepare, building their confidence and love of being in the kitchen. Plus, involving kids in the preparation process makes them more likely to try new foods and develop lifelong healthy eating habits.

A child’s food choices have a significant impact on many aspects of a child’s development, including physical, cognitive, immune and long-term health. Therefore, it is important to provide your child with a balanced diet with plenty of nutritious foods. Incorporating these healthy snacks into your child’s summer routine can help keep them healthy, hydrated and energized for their summer adventures.

Check out the recipe below and try making these delicious “fries” instead of fries, with a hint of sweetness from the coconut sugar and a hint of tartness from the lime juice.

Wave-cut fried watermelon

Serves 5

Everything you need

• 1/2 mini watermelon (5 lbs)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• ¼ cup organic blonde coconut sugar

Everything you do

1. Cut the watermelon in half crosswise and then slice into 1-inch thick rounds.

2. Using a serrated slicer/chopper, cut each round into 4 x 3/4 inch sticks. Dip one end of each round into lime juice and then sugar. Serve immediately.

Recipe Source: https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/crinkle-cut-watermelon-fries

Looking for nutritious and fun ideas to keep your kids entertained this summer? Hy-Vee’s registered dietitians can help with KidzFit in the Kitchen and on-demand KidzFit Food Group Store Tours. Plus, stay active with Hy-Vee KidzFit Clubs. Contact your local dietitian for more information at www.hy-vee.com/health/hy-vee-dietitians/default.aspx.