The after school rush is real — and so is the hunger... which brings us to the very real need for awesome after school snacks to fend off the dreaded kid “hangry-ness.”
Whether your kids are heading to sports practice, tackling homework, or just unwinding after a big day, having nourishing snacks ready to go can make all the difference.
This roundup includes 60 easy, kid-approved after school snack ideas that are as practical as they are delicious. From quick bites you can make in the microwave to wholesome muffins, smoothies, energy balls, and fun twists on classic snacks, there’s something here for every kind of afternoon.
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You’ll find options that are:
Quick to prep (because time is short)
Freezer-friendly (for those plan-ahead wins)
Nutritious and satisfying (no sugar crashes here)
Adaptable for different tastes, ages, and dietary needs
Whether your little one needs something light to tide them over, or your tween is ready to eat a second lunch, these snack ideas have you covered — without you needing to make a second meal.
Energy Bites, Protein Balls And Bars
Need a quick win after school? These energy bites, protein balls, and bars are little powerhouses of nutrition perfect for busy afternoons. They’re easy to prep ahead, and packed with ingredients to keep kids fuelled and focused — whether they’re heading to after school sports, activities, or just need a boost to get through the rest of the day.
Vegan Banana Bread Bites
These Vegan Banana Bread Bites despite being made with a chickpea base, taste just like banana bread — soft, flavourful, and totally plant-based. Great for afternoon snacking or adding to lunchboxes, they freeze beautifully and are perfect for make-ahead prep.
These peanut butter oatmeal balls are a quick and wholesome snack that’s perfect for hungry kids after school. Made with simple pantry ingredients like oats, apple, and peanut butter, they come together in minutes—no oven required! Naturally sweetened and easy to make ahead, they’re a great grab-and-go option for busy afternoons.
These Carrot Oat Energy Bites are a fun, veggie-packed twist on classic bliss balls. Lightly spiced and naturally sweet, they’re a sneaky way to serve up carrots in a snack that feels like a treat — perfect for little hands and lunchboxes.
These Homemade Energy Bars are chewy, nutty, and packed with a variety of seeds and puffed rice for a satisfying crunch. Sweetened naturally with honey and bound together with butter, they make for a wholesome after-school snack that's both tasty and energizing. Easy to prepare and customizable, they're a great alternative to store-bought bars.?
These Chocolate Chia Apricot Balls are chewy, fruity, and just the right balance of sweet and satisfying. With oats, chia, and pops of dried apricot, they make a great pick-me-up when your kids need something to tide them over until dinner.
These Milo Balls are a nostalgic, chocolatey treat with a wholesome twist. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re easy to prep ahead and perfect for popping into lunchboxes or serving up after school with a cold glass of milk.
Peanut butter is a classic for a reason — it’s creamy, satisfying, and full of protein to help keep kids going strong after school. Whether it’s spread on fruit, blended into smoothies, or shaped into something fun, these peanut butter snacks strike the perfect balance between tasty and nourishing. Great for growing appetites and busy afternoons alike!
Stuffed Dates
These easy Stuffed Dates are a naturally sweet and satisfying snack that's perfect for kids. With fun filling ideas like peanut butter, cream cheese, or crushed nuts, they’re a great way to mix up your after school snack routine. Quick to prepare and packed with energy, they’re a delicious bite-sized treat the whole family can enjoy.
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie tastes like a treat but is packed with nourishing ingredients to fuel your kids after school. Made with banana, cocoa, and peanut butter, it’s creamy, satisfying, and naturally sweetened—no added sugar needed. A perfect quick snack that doubles as a healthy dessert!
Apple Nachos are a fun and fresh twist on after school snacking! Crisp apple slices are topped with drizzles of nut butter, yogurt, or chocolate and sprinkled with tasty toppings like granola or seeds. They’re endlessly customizable, quick to make, and always a hit with kids.
A classic after school snack with a fun twist—Ants on a Log is a playful way to get kids crunching on veggies! With celery sticks, creamy spreads like peanut butter or cream cheese, and toppings like raisins or seeds, it's easy to adapt and always a winner. Nutritious, quick to assemble, and full of kid appeal.
These No-Bake Peanut Oat Bars are chewy, filling, and just the thing for kids who come home starving. Made with pantry staples and naturally sweetened, they hold up well in the fridge or freezer — great for batch prep!
These Celery Butterfly Snacks are a creative and nutritious way to make veggies more fun for kids! Made with celery sticks, spreads like peanut butter or cream cheese, and a few clever touches to turn them into butterflies, they’re perfect for an after school snack that’s both playful and wholesome. A great option for little hands and big imaginations.
This Peanut Butter Banana Sandwich is a simple, satisfying after school snack that’s big on energy and flavour. Creamy peanut butter and naturally sweet banana slices are sandwiched between soft bread for a kid-friendly bite that’s ready in minutes. It’s a fuss-free classic that never goes out of style.
Sometimes a sip or spoonful is all it takes to recharge after a big day. These smoothies, puddings, and drinks are quick to make, packed with goodness, and perfect for keeping kids hydrated and satisfied. Whether they’re in the mood for something creamy, fruity, or chocolatey, there’s a drinkable or spoonable snack here for every kind of afternoon.
Pineapple Cucumber Smoothie
Light, refreshing, and packed with goodness, this Pineapple Cucumber Smoothie is a great way to sneak in some extra greens after school. Naturally sweet from pineapple and banana, with a cool cucumber twist, it’s a hydrating snack that kids will actually enjoy. A perfect blend for warm afternoons or post-play pick-me-ups
This Tropical Smoothie is a refreshing after school snack for kids. Made with banana, mango, and pineapple, it’s naturally sweet and packed with vitamin C. Quick to blend and easy to enjoy, it’s a great way to fuel up and hydrate after a busy day.
This Peach Smoothie is a quick and tasty after school snack made with real fruit and no added sugar. It’s smooth, naturally sweet, and easy to blend up in minutes. A great way to keep kids hydrated and satisfied between meals.
This Apple Smoothie blends the crisp sweetness of fresh apples into a smooth, creamy drink your kids will love. It’s light but filling, full of fibre, and comes together in just a few minutes — perfect for days when you need something fast and fresh.
This Avocado Smoothie is rich, silky, and surprisingly kid-approved. Packed with healthy fats and fibre, it’s the kind of snack that fills them up without a sugar crash. Blend it up in minutes and enjoy chilled.
This Banana Milk is a quick and easy drink that’s perfect for an after school energy boost. Made with just banana and milk, it’s naturally sweet, creamy, and free from added sugar. A simple snack kids can sip and enjoy in minutes.
This Chia Pudding Yogurt is a creamy, make-ahead snack or breakfast featuring layers of chia-infused yogurt and sweet berries. Rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, it's a gluten-free option that provides sustaining energy for kids and adults alike. Perfect for busy mornings or after-school snacks, this delightful parfait is both nutritious and delicious.
This Special Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy treat for chilly afternoons. Creamy, rich, and just sweet enough — it’s perfect for warming up after school, especially when paired with a plate of cookies on a cold, rainy day.
This Healthy Homemade Chocolate Milk is a better-for-you version of a classic kids’ favourite. Made with simple ingredients and no refined sugar, it’s a quick and tasty drink for after school. Creamy, chocolatey, and easy to mix up anytime.
This Healthy Chocolate Chia Pudding is a creamy, make-ahead snack packed with fibre and healthy fats. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s naturally sweetened and perfect for after school or even breakfast. A chocolatey treat that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
This Healthy Strawberry Milkshake is a refreshing and naturally sweet after school drink made with real strawberries. It’s creamy, quick to blend, and free from added sugar. A simple way to serve up a fun and fruity snack kids will love.
This Blueberry Yogurt is a simple, homemade snack made with just three ingredients—frozen blueberries, plain yogurt, and a touch of maple syrup. It’s naturally sweet, quick to prepare, and a great alternative to store-bought flavoured yogurts. Perfect for after school or breakfast.
Crunchy, dippable snacks are always a hit after school — especially when they’re packed with flavour and goodness. From homemade crackers to colourful dips, this section has all the mix-and-match options you need for snack plates that are fun, filling, and easy to prep. Great for kids who love to snack with their hands and build their own combos.
4 Ingredient Guacamole
This easy Guacamole is a healthy dip that makes a great after school snack for kids. Made with ripe avocado and simple seasonings, it’s perfect for dipping veggies, crackers, or pita. Nutritious, tasty, and quick to whip up.
This Cottage Cheese Dip is a protein-packed snack that’s perfect for after school. Blended smooth with simple ingredients, it’s great for dipping veggie sticks, crackers, or spreading on toast. A quick and nourishing option for growing kids.
These Cheesy Seed Crackers are a crunchy, homemade snack packed with flavour and goodness. Made with seeds and cheese, they’re a fun and wholesome option for after school munching. Great on their own or paired with dips like hummus or guacamole.
Whipped Cottage Cheese is a smooth, protein-rich spread that works well as a dip or topping. Its mild flavour makes it super kid-friendly, and it’s easy to serve with crackers, veggies, or toast. A great option when you need something filling but fuss-free.
These Hummus Cups are a fun, mess-free way to serve veggies and dip after school. Each cup is filled with smooth hummus and packed with colourful veggie sticks for easy grabbing and dipping. They’re simple to prep and perfect for kids who love to snack with their hands.
These Cheese Crackers are golden, crunchy, and full of real cheesy flavour. A homemade take on a classic lunchbox favourite — bake a batch for easy after school munching or pair them with fruit and veggies for a DIY snack plate.
This Chocolate Hummus is a delightful twist on traditional hummus, blending the richness of cocoa with the creamy texture of chickpeas. It's a nut-free, naturally sweetened spread that's perfect for dipping fruits, spreading on toast, or adding to lunchboxes as a healthier alternative to conventional chocolate spreads. Quick to prepare and packed with plant-based protein, it's a snack that both kids and adults will enjoy.?
This Roasted Carrot Cashew Dip is a vibrant, flavourful spread that works as a dip, pesto, or sandwich filling. Made with roasted carrots, cashews, and a hint of garlic, it’s smooth, kid-friendly, and full of colour. A great veggie-packed option for after school snacking.
There’s something extra comforting about a baked snack waiting after school. These muffins, cookies, and wholesome bakes are made with better-for-you ingredients but still feel like a treat. Perfect for popping in lunchboxes, serving warm with a glass of milk, or stashing in the freezer for easy grab-and-go moments all week long.
Strawberry Muffins
These Strawberry Muffins are soft, fruity, and naturally sweetened—perfect for an after school treat. Made with real strawberries and wholesome ingredients, they’re great for little hands and lunchboxes too. Bake a batch ahead for an easy grab-and-go snack.
This Apple Slice is a soft, oat-based snack bar filled with gentle sweetness from real apples. It’s easy to bake, holds together well, and makes a great option for after school or lunchboxes. A comforting, homemade treat kids will enjoy any day of the week.
These Banana Bran Muffins are a wholesome snack made with fibre-rich bran and naturally sweet banana. Soft, satisfying, and freezer-friendly, they’re perfect for after school or popping into lunchboxes. A great way to give kids lasting energy between meals.
These Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins are soft, bite-sized, and just the right amount of sweet for an after school snack. Made with better-for-you ingredients, they’re easy to bake and fun for kids to eat. Perfect for little hands and big snack cravings.
These Berry Muffins are packed with juicy berries and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. They’re soft, lightly sweet, and perfect for an after school snack or lunchbox treat. A colourful and tasty way to add more fruit to your child’s day.
These Oatmeal Muffins are hearty, lightly sweetened, and perfect for filling hungry tummies after school. Made with rolled oats and simple pantry staples, they’re soft, satisfying, and freezer-friendly. Great on their own or with a little spread on top
These Savoury Muffins are a tasty, veggie-packed option for kids who prefer snacks that aren’t sweet. Filled with cheese and colourful vegetables, they’re soft, satisfying, and easy to prep ahead. Great warm or cold, and perfect for after school or lunchboxes.
These Chickpea Blondies are a clever, kid-approved snack made with chickpeas, banana, and chocolate chips. They’re soft, naturally sweetened, and packed with fibre and protein. A great way to serve up a treat that feels indulgent but is full of goodness.
These Apple Oat Raisin Cookies are soft, chewy, and full of comforting flavours kids love. Made with oats, grated apple, and sweet raisins, they’re a great after school snack or lunchbox treat. Easy to bake and freezer-friendly too.
These Banana Oatmeal Cookies are soft, lightly sweetened, and made with simple pantry ingredients. With oats, banana, and a touch of added sugar, they’re easy to bake and great for after school snacking. A tasty, no-fuss cookie kids will happily devour.
These Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies are made with chickpeas for a soft texture and a boost of plant-based goodness. Lightly sweetened and packed with chocolate chips, they’re a fun and nutritious twist on a classic. A great after school snack that feels like a treat.
These Easy 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are quick to make and full of rich, nutty flavour. With just peanut butter, egg, sugar, and baking soda, they come together fast and bake into soft, chewy cookies. A simple after school treat that’s always a hit.
Cool, refreshing, and fun to eat — these frozen snacks are perfect for warm afternoons or post-play pick-me-ups. Made with real fruit and nourishing ingredients, they’re a great way to offer something sweet without the sugar crash. From creamy to icy, there’s something here to chill out even the busiest after school vibes.
Banana Ice Cream
This Banana Ice Cream is a creamy, no-churn treat made with ripe bananas, Greek yogurt, and a splash of vanilla extract.Naturally sweet and simple to prepare, it's perfect for an after-school snack or a healthy dessert. Serve immediately for a soft-serve texture, or freeze for a firmer consistency.?
These Real Fruit Popsicles are homemade frozen treats featuring three delightful flavors: kiwi, mango, and blueberry.Each popsicle is crafted with fresh fruits and minimal ingredients, ensuring a natural and refreshing snack. Perfect for cooling down on a warm day, they're a hit with kids and adults alike.?
Frozen Grapes are a super simple, naturally sweet snack that kids love. Just pop fresh grapes in the freezer for a cool, bite-sized treat that’s perfect after school or on hot days. No prep, no fuss—just delicious.
Not every after school snack has to be sweet — these savoury options are just the thing when kids need something more filling. From fun twists on sushi to simple sandwiches and warm, satisfying bites, this section is packed with protein-rich ideas to help fuel the rest of the day (and curb those “when’s dinner?” questions).
The BEST cucumber cream cheese sandwich
These Cucumber Cream Cheese Sandwiches feature thinly sliced cucumbers paired with a flavorful cream cheese spread, nestled between soft slices of bread. The combination of crisp cucumber and creamy, herb-infused cheese creates a delightful snack that's perfect for after-school hunger pangs or as a light addition to lunchboxes. Easy to prepare and refreshingly tasty, they're sure to be a hit
These Cucumber Sushi rolls are a fun, seaweed-free twist on traditional sushi, perfect for kids. Hollowed-out cucumber sections are filled with a flavorful mix of rice, tuna, avocado, and mayonnaise, then sliced into bite-sized pieces. This creative and nutritious snack is great for after-school hunger pangs or as a playful addition to lunchboxes
This Rainbow Sushi is a colourful, kid-friendly twist on sushi, packed with veggie goodness. Rolled with rice and a variety of bright vegetables, it’s a fun way to serve a balanced, eye-catching snack. Perfect for after school or as a lunchbox surprise.
These Sushi Balls are a delightful, no-roll take on traditional sushi, featuring seasoned sushi rice mixed with diced cucumber and smoked salmon, centered around a cube of cream cheese. Rolled into bite-sized balls and sprinkled with sesame seeds, they offer a fun and flavorful after-school snack that's both nutritious and engaging for kids. ?
This homemade Instant Noodles recipe is a healthier twist on the classic cup noodles kids love. Made with fresh veggies, noodles, and a simple flavour base, it’s quick to prep and perfect for a warm, slurpable after school snack. Just add boiling water and enjoy!
This Tortilla Pizza is a quick and easy after school snack that kids can help make. Using a tortilla as the base, it’s topped with sauce, cheese, and your choice of toppings, then baked until crispy. A fun, customisable option that’s ready in minutes.
When the after school hunger hits hard, the microwave can be your best friend. These speedy snacks are warm, satisfying, and ready in minutes — no pots, pans, or extra mess. Perfect for older kids to make on their own or for parents who need a fast solution without compromising on nutrition or flavour.
Microwave Popcorn
This Microwave Popcorn is a super simple, budget-friendly snack made with just popcorn kernels and a paper bag—no oil or special equipment needed. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for after school munching or movie night. A fun and easy way to skip the store-bought packets.
Need a fast, fuss-free snack? This Microwave Corn is ready in minutes! Sweet, juicy, and kid-approved, it’s a great option for hungry tummies that need something quick after school — no pots or pans required.
These Microwave Hard-Boiled Eggs are a protein-packed snack made simple. Ideal for older kids who need something more filling after school — just peel, sprinkle with a little salt, and they’re good to go!
This Vegan Mug Brownie is a warm, gooey treat that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for those afternoons when only chocolate will do — no eggs, no dairy, just a cozy little indulgence in a mug
This Vanilla Mug Cake is soft, fluffy, and ready in a flash — no oven needed! It’s the perfect quick treat for after school, especially when your kids want “just a little something sweet.”
These Coconut Snowballs are a fun, no-bake snack that feels like a treat. Lightly sweet and perfectly bite-sized, they’re great for keeping in the fridge for easy after school snacking
Quick Start Guide To BLW
Baby led weaning doesn’t need to be complicated, grab my quick start guide to begin your little ones food journey.