At school or at home, snack time is likely a favorite part of your child’s schedule. With so many unhealthy options in the snack aisles of grocery stores, how do you get your child to eat the more nutritious ones? Here are four tips pediatric dentists recommend to encourage healthy snacking in your kids.

4 Ways to Promote Healthy Snacking

1. Shop Selectively

One of the easiest ways to promote healthy snacking is by keeping junk food out of the house. Even with plenty of healthy options available, given the choice between them and an equal amount of sugary, salty treats, kids are more inclined to opt for the unhealthy foods. Stock up on nutritious snacks low in sugar, and save desserts and sweets for special occasions.

2. Offer Protein

Foods in the protein family help kids feel full and satisfied after snacking. Instead of feeding your child multiple snacks throughout the day, offer protein-loaded foods like hard-boiled eggs, nuts, beans, or string cheese. Snacking all day could lead to more plaque buildup and more trips to the pediatric dentist, so encourage your child to fill up on protein.

3. Keep a Variety

Select a range of different healthy treats for kids to bounce between. Instead of just carrots or celery, allow your children to mix and match snacks, which gives them different textures and flavor profiles, making snack time more fun for them. You can even serve breakfast snacks like granola or cereal after dinner to give them a larger variety.

4. Assign a Snacking Zone

Whether it’s a small nook in the living room or a seat at the kitchen counter, allocate a particular space of your house for snacking and don’t let treats leave that area. This encourages children to snack as needed and not simply because they’re bored. Don’t select areas of the house near televisions or other entertainment devices, as these can encourage children to mindlessly snack even when they’re not hungry.

In addition to a healthy diet and proper oral hygiene, kids should see their pediatric dentist twice a year for cleanings to maintain their smiles. Pedodontic Associates located in Honolulu, Aiea, and Kahului, HI, offers comprehensive dental services to children on Oahu and Maui. With over 25 years of experience, their team understands how to build relationships with young patients and provide a stress-free, comfortable environment for children to receive dental care. To learn more about their services, visit their website. Make an appointment at the office nearest you by calling (808) 735-1733 for the Kahala office, (808) 487-7933 for the Pearlridge office, or (808) 877-0066 for the Kahului office.