Non-Messy Kids' Snacks
Kids can be messy eaters. Try these snacks that are healthy for them, but will leave you with little to clean up.
I have 3 kids with completely different personalities, but one thing is for sure—they’re all messy eaters. Like most moms, cleaning up after their mess becomes never-ending and frustrating. There are several things I do to make snacking less messy, especially when I’m on the go. Hopefully these tips can clean a little mess out of your life.
Those yogurt tubes are a mess waiting to happen. I’ve banned them from my car after a terrible experience with my 6-year old. Here are a few cleaner ideas:
- Whole fruit like apples, pears, bananas
- Baby carrots, snap peas and cucumber slices
- Frozen grapes
- Drinkable yogurt with a straw. Instead of peeling the aluminum cover off, poke a hole in the top with a straw.
- Applesauce-on-the-go pouches; they're less messy than tubes or cups.
- Hummus bowls: With bite-sized crackers, they are fewer crumbs to clean up after.
- These carrot dippers won’t spill when you tote them around;
- Whole grain waffle for your kids to eat like a cookie.
- Cubes of cheese or string cheese
- Granola or breakfast bars
It’s the little things that can really make mom happy. Try these less messy containers for the younger ones.
- Boon Snack Ball: I found this snack container at a recent nutrition conference I attended. It’s a great non-messy cup you don’t have to be afraid to put in your purse. It can also double as a toy.
- Munchkin Snack Catcher: Less messy for cereal, raisins, or small crackers.
- Gyro Bowl: My friends swear by this bowl that doesn’t tip!
You Might Also Like:
Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and consultant who specializes in food safety and culinary nutrition. See Toby's full bio »
Next Up
Cool Snacks for Kids (and Parents!)
Fun snacks aren't just for kids; Robin Miller's cheese-stuffed garlic knots and baked onions will be loved by kids and parents.
10 Upcycled Snacks Kids Will Love
Looking to save the planet and feed your kiddos something healthy? These sustainable snacks are the perfect combo.
The Best Plane Snacks for Kids
Nutritious ways to keep little fliers well-fed and entertained from takeoff through landing.
Easy, Healthy After-School Snacks for Kids
Get creative when preparing after-school snacks and you will calm hunger pangs while dishing up the essential nutrients needed for growing bodies and brains.
The 9 Best Healthy Snacks, According to Kids
We went straight to the source to find out which snacks are worth stocking up on.
Simplify Snack Time with These Kid-Friendly Hacks
Make snack time a breeze with these organization tips!
Healthy Snacks Your Kids Will Actually Want to Eat
Packing a lunch has never been easier!
Robin's Healthy Take: Play Date Snacks Kids Will Love
Give kids a healthy snack after school to help fuel their play without ruining dinner.
Why You Should Make a Snack Drawer for Your Kid
Give them some snacking independence.
15+ Back-to-School Snacks Your Kid Won’t Want to Trade
Say goodbye to boring snacks!