School’s out, and summertime fun is finally here! But, what about the snacks? If you’re tired of hearing, “There’s nothing to eat!” try these cool and refreshing healthy summer snacks for kids.
These easy, make-ahead treats are the ultimate solution for busy parents. Gluten-free and dairy-free, making them a healthier and more budget friendly alternative to the ice cream truck. From naturally sweet frozen treats to creamy chia seed puddings, these snack ideas will transform summertime into fun time!

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Reducing Sugar and Additives: Mom’s Approval
Have you ever looked on the back of the of the package of ice pops (Pop – Ice Assorted fruit freezer ice pops)? They have 21 grams of sugar per serving and are filled with red, yellow, and blue dyes. Yes, they are convenient but I’m pretty sure these are not the best for you.
But wait! Our mom used to get the real deal bargain basement popsicles (remember when it used to have the double stick). Low and behold they contain maltodextrin, aspartame, locust bean gum (what the heck is that anyways?) and some other unknown items.
To give mom some credit, she used to break the popsicle apart so we could share the other half with a friend. At some point in time, she started making homemade popsicles with fruit juice in Dixie cups. These were our favorite and our inspiration for our round up of summer snacks for kids.
Controlling how much sugar and using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and date paste cuts down on the glycemic load. If you can avoid all the chemicals and dyes in the food, you are a step ahead of the rest. Lastly, keeping all the snacks gluten-free, dairy free and some vegan, like some of our favorite breakfasts, makes it convenient for entertaining all the neighborhood children too! (smiling)
Are you ready to explore some healthier snack ideas?
Frozen Snacks
Refreshing Smoothies
Chia Seed Puddings
Fun Beverages and Kid-Friendly Drinks
Quick On the Go Snack Ideas
No Recipe Needed Summer Snacks
- Fruit on a stick
- Strawberries stuffed with homemade coconut whipped cream
- Apple slices with creamy almond butter dip
- Ants on a log (celery stick with nut butter of choice and raisins)
- Sliced veggies like carrots, celery, bell peppers with a red pepper hummus dip
- Mashed avocado or mango salsa on rice crackers
- Sliced hardboiled eggs on cucumber slices.
Summer Snack Planning
Have you noticed that when your family is home over the summer holidays that they eat you out of house and home? They are foraging through the refrigerator, freezer and pantry looking for snacks every 2 hours! It’ so frustrating and don’t even get us started about the MESS!
You need to be one step ahead of the game. Arm your house with these easy grab and go summertime snack ideas. They are perfect for keeping your kids energized and satisfied all season long without all the sugar, gluten, or dairy. Gather your ingredients and your children and let’s make these fun recipes together! You’ll not only create tasty treats but also unforgettable summer memories. Happy snacking!
Kid Friendly Dinner Ideas
Did You Enjoy these Quick and Easy Summer Snack Ideas?
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Hannah says
Okay, I must qualify as a child because I would happily eat ALL of these treats!
HWC Magazine says
Great minds think alike. Adults love these healthy snacks too. Take Care
Heidi says
This is the perfect list of feel good treats that the kids are going to love. The frozen treats will sure hit the spot on these 100+ degrees coming up! Thank you for loading me up with these healthy options for guilt free splurging!!
HWC Magazine says
Thank you Heidi! Scorching hundred + heat and all the humidity needs lots of hydration and some cool and healthy snacks to keep the kiddos happy. The good news as this all can be made in advance and you can just freeze them and enjoy later.
Liz says
I'm eying those blueberry popsicles! Perfect afternoon treat! Excellent roundup, Demeter!