Pool time is one of the pure joys of summertime. Spending a day at a community pool with friends, at a friend’s house that has a pool or simply hanging by your own pool is the highlight of hot summer days.
The kids are likely to spend the entire day in the pool. When it’s time to pull them out to eat it can be tricky to find something that is both tasty and healthy. Snacks will give them the energy to jump back in. Here are a few suggestions for healthy snacks to take to the pool with you.
Healthy Snacks to Take to the Pool or Beach
These snacks are total crowd pleasers. Read on for the best pool snack ideas, and everything you need for summer fun at the pool! These are also great snacks if you are planning a beach day!
Watermelon – Cut up a watermelon so the kids can pop out and grab a quick piece before jumping back in.
Easy Sandwiches – A loaf of whole grain bread, a cooler of ice with your favorite deli meat/cheeses, and condiments is a quick and easy snack/meal for fun times at the pool.
Hard-boiled eggs – If eggs are your family’s thing, boil up a dozen or so eggs. Pack them in a plastic container to keep them from breaking and stick them in the cooler. The kids can just grab one to crack and eat anytime they are feeling peckish.
Trail mix – This is not only healthy but something you can make yourself. Gather up your favorite nuts, dried fruits, and a few pieces of dark chocolate. Toss it all in a plastic baggie the night before. Everyone can just come and grab a handful whenever they want.
Salad shakers – In regular size Mason jars, put all of your favorite salad ingredients in and close the lid. When it’s time to eat, add your favorite dressing from the cooler, shake it up and enjoy!
Veggie sticks and hummus – Pick out your kids favorite veggies (celery, cucumber, baby carrots) and pair it with everyone’s favorite hummus flavor. Create a tasty, easy warm weather snack.
Homemade muffins – Whip up some whole grain blueberry or banana muffins. Or stop by your favorite bakery on the way to the pool. This is a yummy and healthy snack the entire family will enjoy!
Popcorn – No, I don’t mean the kind you get at the movies that’s loaded with tons of butter. Pack up some lightly salted or caramel popcorn for all to enjoy!
Frozen yogurt pops – You can either buy these at the store or easily make them. Fill ice cube trays with your favorite yogurt and putting popsicle sticks in each opening.
Granola and cereal bars – Let each kid pick out their favorite granola or cereal bar at the store to bring to your day in the sun. These make quick, easy snacks that taste good and are usually very healthy.
Apples with peanut butter – Slice up several apples before leaving, bring a jar of peanut butter and when it’s time to eat give each kid an apple and a tablespoon of peanut butter to dip the slices in.
Lowfat beef jerky – Within reason, beef (or your meat of choice) jerky is an excellent source of protein in a small tasty and portable package.
More Pool and Beach Snack Tips
Here are some more tips and ideas for packing snacks for the pool and beach.
Pack single servings, or bring paper cups to serve snacks for the pool and beach
Consider grabbing some single serve snacks for the beach, or be sure to bring paper cups or bowls to serve snacks in.
There’s nothing worse than a soggy bag of snack after kids have reached in with soaking wet hands!
Single serve bags of chips and pretzels are great for this, or you can simply bring some paper cups or some small bowls to serve everyone’s snacks in.
If you usually purchase snacks in bulk, pack large portions in large ziplocks to bring, and serve up individually as needed.
Invest in a small cooler and some ice packs
If your crew prefers snacks that are prone to melting, or things like yogurt or vegetables or cheese that need to be kept cold, a good cooler and reusable ice packs are key.
If you plan on going to the beach or pool a lot, or just love your summer excursions, this is a must have item.
Mix it up!
It can be a lot of fun to pack a surprise snack during your excursion. It is also a great opportunity to encourage your children to try something new!
