Can we stop... I'm Hungry!

It is a well known fact of life, taking kids on a road trip or flying can be extremely stressful. There is nothing worse than being trapped on an airplane or in a car with a hungry child. Plus, making frequent stops to fast food and mini marts can be expensive, tiring and time consuming. Taking a little time the day before a trip, to plan some healthy and fun snacks, can not only keep their tummies satisfied, but relieve some tension for everyone too! It is recommended to invest in a decent sized cooler designated just to travel snacks. A well-stocked cooler can save you time, money and a lot of hassle.

When traveling during the spring and summer months, take advantage of the vast array of fresh produce readily available in most areas of our country. To preserve freshness, wash fruits and vegetables, but don't peel them. Bring a small knife so you can cut an apple or pear into sections. Pack fruits like peaches, plums, and nectarines on top of the cooler to damaging the skin. Pre-washed baby carrots, pre-cut celery or rice cakes with peanut butter, sliced peppers, and cucumbers also offer a nutritious crunch. To keep the car and kids clean, avoid very sticky foods like jelly and chocolate and be sure to pack moist wipes, napkins and paper towels. Don’t forget to pack a small trash bag or two to collect the leftovers! Listed below are some nutritious and portable snacks that you can take with you on the road. Keep in mind, beverages are not allowed through airport security. Also, be sure to pack PLENTY of snacks. You’ll be amazed at how fast those snacks disappear!

* Mini fruit and cheese kabobs: Use tooth picks to stack your child’s favorite fruits and cheeses. One great combination, strawberries, mozzarella cubes and pineapple. For real little ones, watch the toothpicks. Pack up in a plastic container to keep fresh and keep in the cooler.
* Cup cake tin snacks: Fill each tin with a cupcake liner. Inside each liner put a different snack (raisins, trail mix, popcorn, cheese cubes, mini pretzels, etc.). Kids will enjoy these fun snack cups.
* Tortilla pinwheels: Using two tortillas, and any filling of choice (i.e. cheese, peanut butter, jelly, etc.) Make into a sandwich (tortilla, filling, tortilla) and cut into fun triangle shapes.
* It’s all in the presentation: Use colorful containers to package up standard snacks such as: Cheerios, pretzels, trail mix, raisins and grapes.
* Boxed milks are a great way to get calcium, and some don’t have to be refrigerated before opening. Try: Horizon Organic Single Serve Milk in Vanilla, Chocolate or Strawberry.
* Individual size cereal boxes (try to stick to Cheerios and other low sugar options)

Don’t forget kid’s will get thirsty too! A good idea is to pack each child their own thermos or water bottle filled with water, flavored water or other low-sugar beverage. Keep extra in the cooler for re-fills if needed.

Hopefully, these ideas will help the trip be a little more comfortable and manageable for everyone involved! Have fun, eat and enjoy!