10 Easy and Healthy Summer Snack Ideas for Kids

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor adventures, family outings, and lots of playtime. But all that activity can leave kids feeling hungry throughout the day. Instead of reaching for processed snacks or sugary treats, parents can keep their little ones fueled with nutritious, refreshing, and easy-to-make options.

Here are 10 healthy summer snack ideas for kids, complete with simple recipes that parents can prepare quickly.

1. Frozen Yogurt Bark A delicious frozen treat that’s packed with probiotics and fresh fruit.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt

• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• Granola or chopped nuts

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix yogurt and sweetener (if using) and spread evenly on the baking sheet.

3. Sprinkle with fruit and granola.

4. Freeze for 3-4 hours, then break into pieces.

2. Watermelon Pops Naturally sweet and hydrating, watermelon is a summer staple.

Instructions:

• Cut seedless watermelon into thick wedges.

• Insert popsicle sticks into the rind.

• Freeze for 1-2 hours for a refreshing, no-mess treat.

3. Cucumber Sandwiches Cool, crisp, and fun to make with kids.

Ingredients:

• 1 large cucumber, sliced into thick rounds

• Cream cheese or hummus

• Deli turkey or sliced cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Spread cream cheese or hummus on a cucumber slice.

2. Add turkey or cheese (optional) and top with another slice.

3. Enjoy as bite-sized sandwiches.

4. Fruit and Cheese Kabobs A mix of sweet and savory that’s fun to eat.

Ingredients:

• Cubed melon, grapes, strawberries, or apple chunks

• Cubed cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• Toothpicks or mini skewers

Instructions:

1. Thread fruit and cheese on toothpicks or mini skewers.

2. Serve chilled.

5. Frozen Banana Bites These chocolate-covered banana bites are a hit with kids and adults.

Ingredients:

• Bananas

• Dark chocolate chips

• Peanut butter or almond butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Slice bananas and sandwich a bit of nut butter in between (optional).

2. Dip in melted chocolate and freeze until firm.

6. Veggie Cups with Dip Perfect for a grab-and-go healthy snack.

Ingredients:

• Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes

• Hummus, ranch, or Greek yogurt dip

Instructions:

1. Fill the bottom of small cups with dip.

2. Stick veggie strips upright in the dip.

7. Apple Nachos A fun twist on a classic fruit snack.

Ingredients:

• Apples, thinly sliced

• Peanut butter or sunflower seed butter

• Mini chocolate chips, granola, or raisins

Instructions:

1. Arrange apple slices on a plate.

2. Drizzle with nut butter and sprinkle with toppings.

8. Smoothie Popsicles Turn your child’s favorite smoothie into a frozen treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 banana

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

• 1/2 cup frozen berries

• 1/2 cup milk or juice

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.

2. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for 4+ hours.

9. Trail Mix Cups A customizable snack perfect for older kids.

Ingredients:

• Whole grain cereal

• Pretzels

• Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots)

• Nuts or seeds (for allergy-safe, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Portion into snack-size cups or bags.

10. Chia Pudding Parfaits Great for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds

• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• Berries or banana slices

Instructions:

1. Mix chia seeds, milk, and vanilla.

2. Refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).

3. Layer with fruit before serving.

Snack Time Tips for Hot Days

• Keep snacks chilled in a cooler bag when on the go.

• Choose water-rich fruits and veggies like watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries.

• Offer water or coconut water frequently to keep kids hydrated.

  
  

For more ideas on summer nutrition, visit HealthyChildren.org from the American Academy of Pediatrics or explore kid-friendly recipes at EatRight.org.

By keeping snacks fun, cool, and wholesome, you'll help your kids stay energized and satisfied all summer long!

If you have any questions about how to keep your kids on a healthy track this summer, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Kim Bookout at Pediatric Health Partners.