"I'm hungry!" How many times a day do you hear those dreaded words? By the time most children arrive home from a long day of school, they're likely famished. And we're guessing your children probably aren't much different. If you're one of those parents who are on the never-ending quest for innovative yet healthy snacks, stock up on these scrumptious suggestions.{relatedarticles}Think big with these small snacks. Toss a handful of frozen, fresh or canned fruit with a container of low-fat yogurt and a handful of ice into a blender. Pop a straw in the cup and you've got yourself a sweet smoothie loaded with goodness. String cheese served alongside an apple or orange always makes for a balanced snack. How about tossing together peanuts, whole-wheat pretzels, raisins, sunflower seeds and dried bananas for a homemade trail mix?
If your little one is in the mood for popcorn, toss an individual healthy pop bag in taco seasoning, cinnamon or parmesan cheese for a little flavorful variation. For the French fry lover in your child, slice some potatoes, spray with butter-flavored cooking spray and top with kosher salt. Bake the taters in the oven and feel free to season with cayenne pepper, garlic powder or onion powder for an added boost. {relatedarticles}Top fat-free pudding with fresh strawberries and a squirt of fat-free whipped cream. Whip up a batch of ranch, sour cream and onion or blue cheese dip by using plain, fat-free yogurt as a base. Serve with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots and celery. Make homemade popsicles from no-sugar-added juices. Where there's a will to satisfy those hungry mouths, there's a healthy way to do it. The best part - these snacks are so satisfying, your kids won't even notice they're getting a nutritional boost.