Fruit

Fruit is a really healthy snack and can be bought almost anywhere.  It gives a quick energy boost and kids love the sweet taste.  My kids love apples, bananas, strawberries, raspberries and blueberries, and I love knowing that they're getting some vitamins!

Granola

Not just a breakfast food, it makes a handy snack too.  It's nutritious and the oats will keep them full for a while.  Kids love the sweetness and different textures.  You can bring it with you in a lunch box or buy it while out.  For young kids, simply remove any whole nuts in case of choking and avoid brands with honey for babies.  Foods of Athenry Nutty Crunch Granola doesn't contain honey so is suitable for vegans.

Carrot Sticks and Houmous

Carrot sticks and houmous are great for a quick snack and they can be bought ready prepared in most supermarkets, or alternatively you could make your own and bring them with you.  Kids love the sweetness and crunch of raw carrots and they're full of vitamins.  Houmous has lots of healthy fats and protein, as well as iron and calcium.  Kids also find it fun to dunk food!

Flapjacks

Flapjacks are a nice sweet treat with the goodness of oats.  They're easy for kids to eat and not too messy, and will keep them full for a long time.  A lot of brands contain gluten, and may have honey, so look out for that.  Foods of Athenry Just Oats Flapjacks are gluten free and suitable for vegans, and have a subtle hint of ginger which is delicious.  They're also a great size for kids.

Raisins

Mini snack packs of raisins are great for a healthy alternative to sweets.  They contain plenty of iron, calcium and fibre and kids love the sweet taste.  They're available in most supermarkets.

Cookie Shots

It can be hard to find gluten free and vegan cookies when out.  We love Foods of Athenry Cookie Shots since they're the perfect size for a sweet treat for kids without them getting too much sugar.  The bags are resealable so really handy for carrying around in your bag.  

Roasted Chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas are one of my favourite snacks to bring out with me .  They're quick and easy to make, and have loads of protein and fibre, so are filling and nutritious.  They're easy for kids to pick up and eat and they love the crunchiness and flavour.  Simple drain and rinse a tin of chickpeas, mix them with your favourite spices, a drizzle of olive oil, sea salt and black pepper, spread them on a baking tray and roast for 20-30 minutes at 180 degrees Celcius, stirring occasionally.

Ciara shares family recipes from vegan breakfasts and dinners, to home baking on her blog veganmammy.wordpress.com. You can also follow her on Instagram @veganmammy.