I keep a basket of “mom-approved” snack items, individually packaged, on a lower shelf in my pantry for kid self-service at snack time.
This way the kiddos can help themselves and get the freedom to choose the snack they would most enjoy each afternoon. I also have a similar stash in the refrigerator of cheese sticks, grapes and the like, but that has yet to be replenished after Ike. (Maybe tomorrow.)
I am on a new mission to cut back on preservatives and other less-healthy options, replacing them with fresher options. (You can read more about that here.) In the meantime, the basket contains a selection of 100 calorie packs, raisins, pretzels, and a few token fruits. (I keep most of my fruit out on the counter. But by keeping a few pieces in the basket, the kids are reminded, and encouraged, to consider those choices.)
So, the snack basket has certainly worked for us for several years. I only put in the basket what I would want them to eat for a simple snack and they know what their options are.
For more Works for Me Wednesday ideas, head over to Rocks in my Dryer.
Through March 31, 2010, Mom's Toolbox's primary goal is to encourage you in attentively reading the entire Bible in 90 days by offering almost-daily encouragement and my SOAP observations from the reading.
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I do this too! Keeps the kids out of the junk! Great idea for WFMW.
Confessions of an Apron Queen
Great idea. Thanks for sharing it. :)
I do the same thing for my kids. I have one per kid since son is suppose to avoid sugar.
I have been doing this for years including using one of my fridge drawers for the cold snacks! :) It does make snack time easier and it even has cut out THE question…”what’s for snack?” at my house. :)
Thanks for sharing!