Many parents know the challenges of dealing with a picky eater. I remember that my youngest daughter just hated certain food textures and there was nothing anyone could do. (I’m happy to report that she now loves pretty much everything. Parents: Hang in there!)
It can be frustrating to have a picky eater, especially when you’re trying to keep your little ones fueled with nutritious options. As the back-to-school season rolls around, it’s even more important to have some great grab-and-go snacks on hand for kids to eat. Things like dairy foods, nut and seed butters, whole grain crackers and fruits and vegetables are nutrient-packed choices, but some kids just aren’t interested.
What if you could turn those snack-time woes into wins? We’re here to help with some healthy and yummy options, plus some great recipes from United Dairy Industry of Michigan/Milk Means More.
Cheese sticks not a hit? Try yogurt pouches instead
Cheese sticks are a fantastic grab-and-go snack. They’re packed with protein and calcium, and their mild flavor is usually a hit. But what if your child isn’t a fan of that chewy texture?Â
No problem! Swap it out for a creamy Greek yogurt pouch. Like cheese, Greek yogurt offers bone-building calcium and comes in kid-friendly flavors like vanilla and mixed berry. Plus, the convenient pouch makes it perfect for lunchboxes or an after-school snack.
Is Greek yogurt too tart? Sweeten the deal with a mini yogurt parfait
Greek yogurt is a powerhouse of nutrition, but its tangy taste can be off-putting for some kids. If plain yogurt doesn’t appeal to your child, why not turn it into a fun, layered treat? A mini yogurt parfait is a simple way to add a touch of sweetness and nutrition to plain yogurt.
Layer the yogurt with your child’s favorite fruit — strawberries, blueberries or banana slices — and sprinkle a bit of granola on top. The added flavors and textures can make this snack irresistible and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Veggie sticks not their thing? Whole grain crackers with nut or seed butter to the rescue
Veggie sticks are a crunchy, colorful snack packed with vitamins and fiber, especially when paired with a tasty dip like hummus. However, raw veggies can sometimes be a tough sell.Â
If your child isn’t a fan, swap those carrot and cucumber sticks for whole grain crackers with a spread of peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. The crackers offer a satisfying crunch, and the nut butter provides protein and healthy fats — perfect for keeping them energized throughout the day.
Another good swap for reluctant vegetable eaters? Fruit. Some veggie haters are fruit lovers, so offering kids a simple fruit salad is a tasty way to keep the vitamins, minerals and fiber of veggies without the struggle.
Cottage cheese a no-go? Give cheese cubes a try
Cottage cheese is nutritious, creamy, mild and pairs beautifully with sweet fruits like pineapple or peaches. But let’s face it, the texture isn’t for everyone. If cottage cheese isn’t winning your child over, try offering bite-sized cheese cubes instead. These little squares of goodness are familiar, easy to eat and just as nutritious.Â
You can even make snack time a bit more fun by using different shapes of cheese or pairing them with crackers or fruit slices.
Grab-and-go-snack swaps for picky eaters can open your child up to new foods
One of the best things about snack swaps is that they can turn an ordinary snack into an adventure. You get to explore new flavors and textures with your child and they learn that healthy eating can be both fun and delicious.
By keeping an open mind and being ready with alternatives, you’re not only ensuring your picky eater gets the nutrients they need — you’re also teaching them to enjoy a variety of foods.
Need some recipe ideas?
Here are five recipes from United Dairy Industry of Michigan/Milk Means More that are easy to make, delicious and nutritious.
Greek Yogurt Bark with Berries
The right snacks can make all the difference in your child’s day, helping them stay focused and energized through school and play. So stock up on these nutritious options and watch your picky eater transform into a healthy snacker!Â
Discover more about dairy and find more kid-friendly family recipes at milkmeansmore.org. Metro Parent has many more articles on healthy eating for kids when you click here.
