What to feed your kids these holidays: Simple summer snacks to keep them happy and fuelled

Vitamins A and C, present in sweetcorn, help support bone strength and immune health. Photo / 123RF

Hot weather and school holidays call for simple, healthy food. Nikki Birrell shares some easy ideas.

Summer holidays are all about fun, but keeping kids satisfied between activities can sometimes be a challenge. The key to easy, nutritious snacks is planning ahead without getting bogged down by complicated prep. Here are some easy-to-make and kid-approved snack ideas to keep the little ones satisfied this festive season.

Frozen fruit kebabs

Easy to assemble and perfect for hot summer days. Skewer fresh fruit such as strawberries, melons, grapes and pineapples, then freeze them for a refreshing, bite-sized treat. Kids can also help with the assembly, making it a fun activity that involves them in the kitchen.

Vegetables and hummus – a delicious snack the kids don't even realise is super-healthy.

DIY snack platters

No cooking required here, just slice up an assortment of vegetables like cucumber, carrots and bell peppers, and pair them with cheese cubes, wholegrain crackers and a dip like hummus. These platters can be customised to fit picky eaters and are perfect for snack time, or even a casual picnic.

Popcorn with a twist

Skip the store-bought flavoured varieties that are often packed with added sugars and artificial ingredients. Pop your own kernels at home then season with a little cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat, or try grated parmesan and mixed herbs for a savoury version. It’s an affordable snack that’s sure to please.

Mini-wraps

Create simple wraps using wholegrain tortillas, which can be filled with whatever your kids love. Think ham and cheese, or even hummus with cucumber and grated carrot. Roll them up and slice them into pinwheels for an easy, fun snack that’s both filling and healthy.

Frozen yoghurt bites

Turn regular yoghurt into a cool treat by spooning it on to baking paper, adding a few chopped fruits or nuts, and freezing it. These little bites can be a great alternative to ice cream and are quick to make. Plus, they offer a good source of calcium and protein.

No baking required for these carrot cake-inspired morsels. Photo / Babiche Martens

No-bake bliss balls

These energy-packed treats require no baking at all. Simply blend oats, dates, and a little cocoa powder (or nut butter for added richness) to form bite-sized balls. They’re ideal for fuelling the kids between outings and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. The kids will love this no-bake carrot cake and walnut balls recipe.

For more substantial options, you could also consider making your own energy bars using oats, honey and peanut butter, or preparing smoothie packs to keep in the freezer – just add milk or juice and blend when needed.

These snacks are all quick, healthy and fun to make, ensuring your kids stay nourished without too much hassle. They’re also perfect for lunchboxes, road trips, or even those spontaneous picnics in the park.

By keeping it simple and using whole foods, you can ensure the kids are snacking well during the summer break, leaving you more time to enjoy the holidays too.

Herald contributor Nikki Birrell has worked in food and travel publishing for nearly 20 years. From managing your kitchen to cutting costs, she’s shared some helpful advice recently, including the best new ice creams to buy, what can Kiwis expect from berries this summer, and how to eat al fresco without any fuss.