Valentine’s Day can be a time for kids to learn about healthy snacking. The following are treats which incorporate low-fat dairy, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Many of these can be assembled in a classroom.
The first idea is about spreading cheer through messages. Fun messages can be written on the peels of clementines or bananas using a felt-tipped marker. The second idea focuses on strawberries, which are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. A simple and delicious way to enjoy them is to top the strawberries with a small dollop of whipped cream or yogurt. The third idea is to let the kids make individual snack plates. The ingredients can include cut up vegetables, whole-grain pita chips or crackers, low-fat cheese cubes, and dip like tomato salsa. The fourth idea is a spin on a banana split. A peeled banana can be split down the middle and topped with low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt and sliced heart-shaped fruit. The fifth idea is a protein-packed, naturally sweet drink. Create pink milk by blending strawberries and low-fat milk. The sixth idea transforms sandwiches into valentines. Nut butter and jelly sandwiches on whole-wheat bread can be transformed into hearts by using a cookie cutter. The seventh idea is all about the color red, the unofficial color of Valentine’s Day. Red fruits include apples, blood oranges, grape tomatoes, red grapes, and red peppers. Cinnamon and low-fat vanilla yogurt can be mixed to create a sweet dip. The eighth idea is a naturally sweet and pink colored smoothie. Blend cranberry or pomegranate juice with low-fat milk, bananas, and canned pineapple. The ninth idea is trail mix with a Valentine’s Day theme. Combine O-shaped cereal (the Os), pretzel sticks (the Xs), bright red dried cranberries, and dried strawberries.
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