1. Banana Pops

You have got to try this one. First you want to cut each banana in half. Place a skewer or popsicle stick in each one and freeze them. After they are frozen melt down a little bit of chocolate. Dip your frozen banana in the chocolate and a freeze again. Your kids are sure to love this and so will you. It's like a healthy popsicle that feels like a decadent treat. You can even roll them in crushed nuts or granola before the second freeze for extra crunch. Instead of just milk chocolate, try dipping them in dark chocolate for more antioxidants. This is a fantastic way to use up bananas that are starting to get too ripe for eating plain. For more sweet treats, check out our guide on healthy desserts that won't derail your diet.

2. English Muffin Pizza

Who doesn’t love pizza? Exactly. That is why I think this is one of the best after school snacks ever. They are so simple to make. First you open up an English muffin. Spread a little pizza sauce on each half. Top with a couple pepperonis and cheese. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees until the cheese is melted. These are perfect for when you're in a hurry but want something substantial. Kids can even help assemble them, making it a fun activity as well as a meal. You can also add some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach under the cheese to sneak in some extra nutrients. You can find quality ingredients for these at Whole Foods.

3. Yogurt Parfait

Yogurt is great, but can get a little boring. Yogurt parfait steps it up a notch making it worthy of the title “best after school snack.” Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit in a cup. I like to add a couple of chocolate chips for an added treat. Try using Greek yogurt for extra protein to keep them fuller longer. Seasonal berries make these especially refreshing in the spring and summer. For a bit of extra crunch, use toasted pecans or walnuts. If your kids prefer a sweeter taste, a small drizzle of honey or maple syrup can make it feel like a fancy restaurant dessert. It's a much creamier alternative to a smoothie if they want something more substantial.

4. Fruit Kabob

Fruit kabobs are just a fun way to eat your favorite fruit. You can prepare them early and keep them fresh in it the fridge until the kids get home. I like to use grapes, strawberries, cantaloupe, honey dew, and watermelon on my fruit kabobs. My daughter will tell you that these are one of the best after school snacks. Using a variety of colors makes them visually appealing, which we all know is half the battle with kids! To keep apples or bananas from browning, dip them in a little lemon juice first. Serving these with a side of yogurt for dipping makes them even more interactive and satisfying.

5. Ants on a Log

Such a classic snack isn’t it? But kids still think Ants on a Log is one of the best after school snacks. If you have never made it before you prepare stick of celery with peanut butter down the middle and then place a few raisins on top of the peanut butter. The celery and peanut butter becomes the log and the raisins are the ants. It’s the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness. If you're looking for more quick recipes for busy afternoons, this is a must-have in your rotation. You can also try these fun variations:

6. Popcorn

Air popped popcorn is a great after school snack. It is simple, healthy and delicious. Kids love it and it’s so much better than eating chips. I always keep popcorn on hand for a quick after school snack. Sprinkle a little nutritional yeast or cinnamon for a flavor boost without the extra calories of butter. You can even make a "taco" version by adding a pinch of chili powder and lime zest. It’s a high-fiber snack that satisfies the craving for something crunchy and salty without the grease of traditional potato chips. You can use a Whirley Pop for the best stovetop results.

7. Smoothie

Smoothies are perfect for a hot day and make one of the best after school snacks. You can mix it anyway you like. I do it by blending a cup of fruit, a cup of milk, and a cup of plain yogurt. This makes enough for my daughter and I to both get a glass. For an extra nutritional punch, toss in a handful of spinach—the fruit usually masks the taste completely! You can also freeze your smoothies in popsicle molds for a treat that lasts even longer. Adding a tablespoon of flax seeds or chia seeds is a great way to boost the Omega-3 content without changing the flavor profile at all.

8. Pita and Hummus

Hummus isn’t just for grown ups. Kids really like this stuff too. The reason why I think humus and pita chips makes one of the best after school snacks is because it’s healthy, delicious and very filling. Slicing the pita into triangles and toasting them slightly in the oven makes them even better for dipping. If your kids aren't fans of traditional hummus, try a roasted red pepper or garlic version for a different flavor profile. Serving it with baby carrots or cucumber slices alongside the pita adds even more color and nutrition to the plate. You can find some great Sabra Hummus options at most grocery stores.

Try out some of these best after school snacks with your kids and tell me what they think. Every child is different, so feel free to mix and match these ideas to find what works best for your family. Also let me know what you serve your kids when they get home from school. I’m always looking for new ideas to keep snack time exciting and healthy.