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Lunchbox and Snack Favorites for the New School Year

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With 3 kids of varying ages, and everyone with slightly different likes and dislikes, my meal prep is extensive. As I make dinner and get prepared for the next morning, I also pack lunchboxes at the same time. I am already in the kitchen, and many times, I use the leftovers from dinner or cut extra veggies & fruits to save a bit of time.

To keep it simple, I typically include a protein, a fruit and/or veggies + dip, a yogurt, applesauce or superfruit pouch, a starch or carbohydrate and a small treat, like REAL Cookie Poppers, Fairytale Brownies (bite-sized goodies!) or the new Organic Snack Bars from Dave’s Killer Bread.

My kids love bento style lunches, so I try to make different variations throughout the week to keep it interesting. Our favorite styles include Dearest Grey (easiest for the toddler to open by himself), EasyLunchBoxes Bento Snack Boxes (great for homemade lunchables + snacks), Miniware GrowBento (easy to pack) and the 2-Tier Bento Box from Melii Baby (can hold a lot!).

True Story Foods

True Story Foods has organic deli meats that are a game-changer for packing lunchboxes. Their organic turkey and ham taste fresh and do not contain antibiotics, carrageenan, nitrates/nitrites or artificial preservatives. My kids love their Ham Snack Packs, which are cut into perfect little circles and fit nicely into any homemade lunchable! For older tweens and teens, check out their Protein Toppers, too!

True Lemon Kids

True Lemon Kids drink mixes are designed with your child’s health and taste buds in mind. Place a packet in your child’s lunch box and they can easily mix it into their water bottle for a fun beverage option with their lunch. Made with simple non-GMO ingredients, each convenient packet flavors 8 ounces of water and has 92% less sugar* than many other popular kids’ beverages like juice and soda for a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Plus – each packet is packed with 25% of a child’s daily Vitamin A, C & E. Kids (or the whole family!) can choose from 7 delicious flavors including Pink Lemonade, Blue Raspberry and Groovy Grape, available on Amazon.

Dave’s Killer Bread Organic Snack Bars

These grab-and-go Organic Snacks Bars from Dave’s Killer Bread taste like a sneaky treat, but each bite is packed with the perfect balance of fiber, protein, and whole grain goodness — a better-for-you option for busy parents battling kids over snack choices. Available in 3 flavors, including Cocoa Brownie Blitz, Trail Mix Crumble, and Oat-rageous Honey Almond. You can find these yummy bars on Amazon.

Sargento Fun! Balanced Breaks

Sargento has debuted their newest lineup of grab-and-go snacks combining the best of sweet and savory by the country’s leading cheese brand Sargento in partnership with confection giant Mondelez. Each package combines a mixture of FUN, kid-favorite treats (and let’s be real, adult favorite too) like CHIPS AHOY! or Teddy Grahams (both classic and cocoa), rounded out with chunks of all-natural Sargento cheese and fruit snacks. Kids love them for obvious reasons, and adults reach for them for giving a taste of sweetness alongside a more balanced serving of good-for-you protein. Fun! Balanced Breaks can be found in most any grocery store across the country, including Walmart, Publix, and Meijer.

Real Cookie Poppers

Delicious, bite-sized cookies created for those on-the-go, REAL uses only clean non-GMO ingredients like almond and coconut flours, real fruit and decadent chocolate chips – simply sweetened with Vermont maple syrup. No junk, or long list of ingredients. REAL Cookie Poppers are made without gluten, soy, corn, grain, dairy, eggs, artificial sweeteners or tapioca starch. Available in three delightful flavors in a resealable pouch, including Lemon Blueberry, Chocolate Chip and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip. Available on Amazon.com, as well.

Gina’s Table

Perfect for lunch box packing, Gina’s Table offers Merries, freeze-dried strawberries, and Happles, freeze-dried apples in four delicious  flavors, just apples, strawberry-blasted apples, raspberry-blasted apples, and mango-blasted apples. Each variety comes in convenient 0.6 oz. snack-sized packages – a fun little treat at lunch or after school!

Fairytale Brownies

Brighten the start of their academic year with an irresistible back-to-school gift basket of individually wrapped treats! Fairytale Brownies features fudgy, bite-size brownies in six flavors, and cookies in four flavors, individually wrapped making them ideal for packing in lunchboxes or sharing with the class. These tiny treats won’t last long… the whole family will enjoy the brownies! The brownies do not contain trans fats, artificial ingredients or preservatives. Certified Kosher.

Chomplings by Chomps

We love these free-range mini meat sticks from Chomps that are better-for-you, sustainably sourced meat snacks to fuel your body anywhere, anytime. Chomps make healthy eating an easy choice with a versatile, quick protein boost. The mini Chomplings are perfect for back-to-school! Chomplings are mini meat sticks that combine convenience, nutrition, and tantalizing flavor. Each mini meat stick offers a robust 4-5g of protein per serving, and zero sugar. Available in Original Beef, Italian Style, New Jalapeno Beef, New Sea Salt Beef, and Free-Range Turkey.

Dried Apricots from Nuts.com

Naturally juicy and chewy, dried apricots are known as nature’s candy! A fiber-rich, vegan and gluten-free treat packed with vitamins and minerals, dried apricots make an excellent treat packed in lunchboxes or offered after school. Nuts.com has Dried Apricots that come in a resealable bag and can be found on Amazon.com.

SuckerPunch

Pack some crunchy pickles in their lunchbox to change things up! SuckerPunch offers convenient, individual snack pouches that contain already sliced pickles that make a fantastic addition to any lunch. The pickles come in a few varieties, including Classic Dill, Three Pepper, Bread n’ Butter, and Red Chile Spicy Dill. Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, Non-GMO and Vegan. You can find the individual pouches on Amazon.com.

Ready Go! Bento Mealtote & GrowBento Set

This combo set has everything your child needs for meals and snacks at preschool, school or while away. The Meal Tote with insulated inner liner keeps foods hot or cold for longer, while GrowBento is so versatile – with space for up to 4 silipods creating endless configurations! The silipods are great for at home snacking, too!

2-Tier Bento Box Melii Baby

Double the tiers, double the fun! The BPA-free 2-Tier Bento Box is not just a lunchbox; it’s a canvas for creativity. With two spacious compartments, it’s perfect for creating lunchtime masterpieces with plenty of space for all their favorites. Whether it’s a sandwich in one tier and snacks in the other, or a main course and sides, this bento box is ready to take lunchtime to new heights. Plus, it comes with its own spoon and fork that stay put when not being used!

About the Author

Ms. Johnson is a Mom of 4, a Seasoned Freelance Journalist, Publicist and Lifestyle Expert with a career spanning almost 20 years in the industry. She is passionate about fitness, health and wellness. She has written her own website, Tiny Green Mom, since 2010, which highlights parenting and all things ‘green,’ from tips on living a healthier lifestyle to the latest eco-friendly products for the entire family.

As a Freelance Journalist, Ms. Johnson has written for a multitude of publications, including Medium, SheKnows.com, Tiny Beans, and more! In addition, she can be found on TV stations across the country as a Lifestyle Expert, speaking about all of her favorite brands and companies. 

You can follow her on Instagram and X at @TinyGreenMom.

*Companies generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

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Off to Preschool!

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We may be in the middle of summer and looking for ways to keep our children engaged and busy, but I am already preparing for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. My youngest is headed to preschool in the Fall and there are so many things that we need to get ready. From labeling his belongings to making sure we have the correct lunch and snack gear, I have been gathering all of the necessary items in preparation.

Listed below are some of our favorites – some tried and true (this is my 4th child!) such as Chicco Insulated Straw Cups and some fun new ones, like the adorable My First Pac Pac!

Chicco Insulated Flip-Top Straw Cup

Keep your little one hydrated and ready for a busy day of preschool with the Chicco Insulated Flip-Top Straw Cup! Designed with tiny hands in mind, this kid-sized cup is just the right shape to fit your little one’s grip. The double-wall design provides insulation essential for keeping cold drinks cool longer, and the soft silicone straw is easy to keep clean. The easy slide, flip-top closure creates a leak-proof seal and keeps the straw covered when not in use. Plus, it is top-rack dishwasher-safe. Comes in a 2 pack in 3 different colors, including Dream Pink/Purple, Blue Discover/Teal, and Green Play/Teal. Also available on Amazon.com.

Alphapals Backpack Set

We are loving Alphapals, a cozy, cuddly backpack full of wonder and play! As my young son learns his letters, this adorable and incredibly soft set makes it fun to spell. The soft plush backpack has breakaway Velcro straps, front flap with snap closure that includes 26 individual mini rainbow plush letters hidden inside. Fully lined to help keep its structure, the backpack set goes with your child everywhere from your living room to the playground, school and beyond! Founded to help early learning challenges and development, Alphapals uses color, soft-to-the-touch fabrics, and their signature letter people in all their products to foster rich learning through play. You can find also Alphapals on Amazon.

Melii Baby Reusable Snack Bags

The Reusable Snack Bags from Melii Baby are made from durable, food-safe materials and feature fun designs such as Shark or Panda to tuck in your preschooler’s lunchbox to keep things cool and fresh. They’re easy to clean, easy to use, and a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic bags…keeping the planet happy, too! The bags can be purchased on Amazon.com, as well.

Melii Baby Spin Snack Container

Spin into after school snack time with the Spin Snack Container from Melii Baby! This interactive container features spinning compartments that are sure to delight and turn snacking into a game. It’s not just fun; it’s functional too, keeping snacks fresh and separate until it’s time to spin and enjoy. Perfect for kids who love a bit of excitement with their snacks. You can find this fun and functional snack container on Amazon.com.

Handzies Soap + Water Wipes

It’s easy to keep tiny hands clean with Handzies! Individually packaged and perfect for your preschooler’s backpack, cubby and lunchbox, Handzies Soap + Water Wipes give your child fresh, clean hands using only natural castile soap, water and essential oils. Say goodbye to harsh hand sanitizers, Handzies do not contain alcohol, BZK, triclosan, artificial perfumes or dyes. Gentle for use by the entire family! Available on Amazon.com, too.

My First Pac Pac by Miniware

Does your wee one say ‘Pac Pac’ for backpack like mine? I don’t have the heart to correct my littles, so sending my youngest off to preschool with the most fitting of backpacks, My First Pac Pac by Miniware! Padded compartments have room for lots of stuff like art supplies, clothes, and snacks. There’s even an insulated cubby to keep foods fresh. This growth-friendly, age-adaptable backpack comes in Noah (who gives great big bear hugs!), Luna and Kai. BPA-free and non-toxic.

Sili Mini Go: Silicone Travel Meal Set by Miniware

This silicone bundle set has everything littles need for enjoying meals away from home – a suction plate and bib which close & lock for compact storage, while the 2-in-1 spoon grows with your child’s capabilities. Sili Mini Go is a complete set making outside meals easier and mess-free both for children and parents! Available in 4 colors, including Pink Antioxidant, Blue Banana, Golden Boost and Green Energy. The line can also be found on Amazon.com.

MORI Dino Print Sweater & Joggers Outfit

Have a dino-obsessed little one? The roarsome Dino Print Sweater & Joggers Outfit from MORI is the perfect set for little dino lovers. It includes a comfy top and bottoms crafted from the softest, sustainable fabrics. The joggers have fun soft spikes down the side and an elasticated waistband for fuss-free dressing. Made from 55% Bamboo Viscose, 33% Organic Cotton, and 12% Recycled Polyester. Available in sizes 3-6 months to 4-5 years.

Ultra-Light French Terry Garment Dyed Tee And Jogger

Soft and cozy, guarantee your little one a carefree day with the Ultra-Light French Terry
Garment Dyed Tee and Jogger Set! Both lightweight and incredibly soft, this set
is made of the gentlest material to keep your child’s sensitive skin safe. The
set is perfect for the Fall as your tiny tot heads off to daycare or preschool!
Available in sizes 12-18 months to size 6.

Miniland ECO Math Connectable Bears

Miniland ECO Math Connectable Bears is an educational toy which help little ones to take their first steps in the world of mathematics! This game is a great help in developing visual and motor skills coordination, space orientation and as an introduction to math. Its bear-shaped pieces are made of bioplastic produced form sugar cane, bases from recycled materials and activity sheets made of cardboard. Available on Amazon.com.

Petit Collage Spelling Puzzles

These bright, illustrated jigsaw Spelling Puzzles from Petit Collage will teach children new words in a fun, gentle way that all the family can get involved in. Using familiar objects makes learning more accessible and encourages future progress when the puzzles are put away. Plus, the pieces of each jigsaw will only fit together to make the correct word, meaning your child will learn how to spell without ever having to be told they’re wrong, making learning a positive experience. You can find Petit Collage on Amazon.com, too.

CamelBak Eddy® + Kids 14oz Bottle with Tritan™ Renew

Sip sip hooray! Fresh pop color and new graphics pull kids back in for extra sips and sustained hydration. This new earth-friendly plastic is made with 50% recycled material. It’s easy to clean and always free of BPA, BPS, and BPF. The soft and secure bite valve delivers a steady flow with a simple flip, bite, and sip. The comfy carry handle makes it easy to bring along virtually everywhere. Here’s to happy and hydrated kids (and equally happy parents). Available in 14 exciting colors & designs. Recommended for ages 3+. Visit Amazon.com.

Kids BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandages

Little ouchies, boo boos and minor scrapes are no match for BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandages! Make sure to stock up on all of the fun kid-approved bandages before your little one heads off to preschool in the Fall to prepare for inevitable playground mishaps and other small cuts or scrapes. There are so many favorites to choose from, such as COCOMELON, Peppa Pig, Disney Encanto, or Disney and Pixar Toy Story 4. Find them on Amazon.com, too!

Young Days

Shopping for your child’s clothing for preschool becomes a breeze with Young Days’ mix-and-match pieces! Eliminate the hassle of outfit coordination with their fun clothing bundles that include a variety of tops and bottoms. Young Days offers an exclusive lineup from social media star Abbie Herbert, a sporty Game Time bundle, All for Fall, Awesome Autumn, Best in Class and more! You can shop by season (Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring) for ages 0-3 months up to 5T.

BEABA On-the-GO Meal Set

Make packing lunches a breeze; this leak-free and temperature-controlled set is packed with everything your little one needs for mealtime at daycare or preschool, including an insulated steel food jar, insulated steel sippy cup, insulated lunch box and toddler spoon. Available in two gorgeous pastel colors, Rain and Rose.

Hudson CloudBlend™ Short Sleeve Pajama Set by Wildbird

Help your toddler get the most sleep and rest after a busy day at preschool with Wildbird’s Short Sleeve Pajama Set! With a myriad of gorgeous prints and patterns, each two-piece set is made with incredibly soft, luxurious CloudBlend™ fabric (67.5% Lenzing Tencel, 27.5% Modal, 5% Elastane). Made from eucalyptus and beech trees, Tencel and Modal are some of the world’s most sustainable natural textiles. Naturally hypoallergenic, non-toxic and OEKO-TEX® Certified.

*Companies generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*



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Back-to-School Lunch Gear Guide

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Back-to-School Lunch Gear Guide

School is in session…. and I don’t know about you, but I need to get more organized than I already am when it comes to prepping lunches! I have found a few exciting reusable items that have been game-changers in our lunch game, and we know you will find them super useful, too!

JOY Deluxe Insulated Lunch Cooler Tote Bag

We adore this reusable lunch cooler that transports your food and beverages in style! This fashionable insulated tote is cleverly designed, from the water-repellant exterior, to the handy hook-and-loop handle closure and exterior storage pocket, to the easy to wipe clean insulated interior, it is ideal for tweens and teens who want to carry a healthy lunch to school but want something more fashion-forward. It is available in a variety of gorgeous color combinations, such as Purple/Lavender/White and Mint/Black/White.

bblüv’s Döse Multi-Purpose Stackable Containers

Pack it up & stack it up! Available on Amazon, Döse Multi-Purpose Stackable Containers are an easy, hassle-free, and mess-free way to bring along cut-up fruits, trail mix, and other healthy snacks to school! It is compact enough to fit anywhere and is also easy to clean and can be sterilized. It’s the perfect solution for snack organization… plus little ones like to help pick their favorite items to place inside. Plus, it even features a funnel cap for easy pouring of juice, milk or water. Stackable and interchangeable, featuring 3 compartments with a large storage capacity of 4oz. Dishwasher safe (top rack) BPA, Phthalate and PVC free.

ZizzyBee Bags®

Get organized as the school season starts… whether you need a bag for art supplies, pencils and pens, crayons and markers, an extra change of clothes, or snacks in your child’s lunch… ZizzyBee Bags® are a perfect fit for anything and everything! Each bag features an easy handle for hanging up on a hook, and are made of breathable, washable mesh. The bags are available in a selection of bright prints, too!

Yumbox

Making packing a lunch for your child easy… and fun to eat! We are simply loving these reusable bento style lunchboxes from Yumbox! Plus, it saves you money by completely eliminating the need for plastic bags, multiple containers, or plastic wrap…making it a breeze to pack a waste free lunch. The lid is leakproof, and the insert can be completely removed to wash it easily. Yumbox is made from food safe materials, and is both BPA-free and phthalate-free. Did we mention how cute they are… and that dip container in the middle is giving us all the heart eyes!

*Companies generously provided samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

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18 Healthy Lunchbox & After School Snacks for Kids

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18 Healthy Lunchbox & After School Snacks for Kids

Time for a lunchbox makeover as the school year starts! Ditch the junk and sugar-laden snacks, and tuck these healthy items into your child’s lunchbox instead!

1. Slammers Super Food Snacks

Fuel for school! Perfect for lunches and after school sports, Slammers Super Food Snacks were created to be delicious & instant organic fuel for active kids. Packed with superfoods, two of the flavors (Watermelon Kiwi Burst and Pomegranate Grape Crush) contain 7 grams of protein for growing bodies. In addition to these two flavors, Slammers Super Food Snacks offers 3 additional tasty varieties, EPIC (mangoes, bananas, oranges, carrots, Greek yogurt & real vanilla), AWESOME (bananas, blueberries, strawberries, beets, acai, & amaranth) and CHILL’N (bananas, blueberries, butternut squash, Greek yogurt & yumberry). Slammers Snacks can be purchased nationwide at Target, Safeway, Kroger, Costco and Walmart.

2. Rule Breaker Snacks

Rule Breaker Snacks harness the power of beans (yes, beans!) along with oats and other wholesome ingredients to create truly delicious, indulgent and guilt-free goodies. That’s right, Rule Breaker Deep Chocolate Brownies and Chocolate Chunk Blondies are made with chickpeas (they are the first ingredient!), but you’d never know it from the rich delicious flavor and texture. Perfect for anyone looking for a treat they feel better about eating, Rule Breaker snacks contain 3 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and are gluten-free, 100% plant-based (vegan), nut-free and top 8 allergen-free.

3. Banana Wave

Created from one of nature’s most universally-loved fruits, the banana, BANANA WAVE bananamilk is a delicious, creamy and nutrient-filled new option. Derived from an ancient African recipe that has been passed down for generations, BANANA WAVE bananamilk begins with a universally loved fruit that is a staple in most households – bananas. Because BANANA WAVE bananamilk begins with pure banana puree, one serving contains as much potassium as a small banana, 330 mg, and also contains 29 vitamins and minerals and 1200 mg of Omega-3s per serving. BANANA WAVE bananamilk is vegan, all natural, dairy, gluten and GMO-free.

4. Sneaky Chef No-Nut Butter

Sneaky Chef No-Nut Butter is an award-winning peanut-butter alternative made from naturally sweet and “nutty” tasting golden peas (with yes, more veggie protein!), but without a trace of peanuts, tree nuts, seeds, or soy. Available in Creamy and Chocolate (which has more protein and half the sugar of other chocolate spreads!), Sneaky Chef No-Nut Butter is so good everyone will love it allergies or not.

5. Pure Organic Layered Fruit Bars

Pure Organic Layered Fruit Bars, available in Strawberry Banana and Pineapple Passionfruit flavors, are dual-flavored, triple-layered fruit snacks produced in a nut free facility, making them the ideal on-the-go, allergy-friendly snack for kids and families! Compared to other mainstream fruit snack brands that may contain artificial additives and preservatives, Pure Organic takes a cleaner and more transparent approach, using all organic fruit and vegetable juices and purees with no artificial flavors, preservatives, or synthetic colors. Both kids and adults love them!

6. Wicked Crisps

Wicked Crisps, a surprisingly healthful snack with an irresistible taste, are chock full of nutrition from veggies, herbs and spices. A guilt-free treat for taste buds, Wicked Crisps are available in seven delicious flavors like Cheesy Cheese Pizza, Spinach Parmesan, Spring Vegetable Medley, Sweet Potato Soufflé and Red Curry Hummus (our daughter’s fave!), that combine the protein and goodness from vegetables in a crisp that is formulated without GMOs, gluten or non-organic ingredients. Wicked Crisps are deliciously deceptive nutrition!

7. Kalot Superfood

Kalot Superfood offers nutritional nut and seed butters blended with fruits, spices and a custom vitamin blend that provides up to 50% of the Daily Value for a nutrient-rich and tasty treat that can be seamlessly incorporated into hectic routines to keep bodies full, fueled and healthy. Kalot Superfood is available in nine delicious varieties including Almond Butter blends: Blueberry Cinnamon Walnut; Cherry Vanilla; Dark Chocolate Coconut; Espresso Hazelnut; Chia Cashew Butter Blends: Blueberry Vanilla; White Chocolate Strawberry; Chocolate Chip and Sunflower Seed Butter Blends: Cinnamon Apple; Chocolate Cherry.

8. HEROFUEL

Need a quick, protein-packed snack for your child’s after school sports game or activity? HEROFUEL has 10g of protein, only 6-8g sugar, the right amount of fiber and carbs for kids playing sports, or just being active! It’s the first and only sports bar made specifically for kids! Kids love the taste, parents love the nutrition. Available in kid-sized portions in two delicious flavors, Chocolate Chip Brownie and Cookies & Cream.

9. Nature’s Crush

Nature’s Crush Microwave Popcorn is a revolutionary new all-natural microwave popcorn. Different because it uses real herbs and spices, not artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, to create a gourmet popcorn experience. Nature’s Crush is whole grain, gluten-free, vegan and non-GMO. Perfect for snacks, lunchboxes and parties, Nature’s Crush fills the whole house with the aroma of delicious goodness. Nature’s Crush microwave popcorn is making microwave popcorn a pantry must-have once again.

10. Cherryvale Farms

Cherryvale Farms is a pioneer in 100% plant-based baking and a family business that drew inspiration from their own small farm in Santa Cruz, California to create delicious baking mixes everyone can enjoy at home. All Cherryvale Farms baking mix products are 100% plant-based, egg-free, dairy-free, nut-free and free from preservatives and artificial colors and flavors, making them an excellent option for those managing food allergies or intolerances. New Cherryvale Farms Instant Indulgence Individual Mug Cakes are perfect for middle or high school lunchboxes – or for Mom or Dad to keep in their drawer at work for a sweet treat!

11. Ceres’ Smoothie to Go

Ceres’ Smoothie to Go pack the heavenly taste of perfectly ripe, organic fruit into a healthy, sippable snack that is filled with the essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients your body craves without any fillers, GMOs or added sugars. Packed at the peak of freshness to preserve the pure, crisp taste of exotic real fruit, Smoothies to Go are the ideal way for your littles to get their “five-a-day” recommended servings of fruits and 100% of daily Vitamin C. Each smoothie contains small chunks of luscious real fruit. Available in three mouthwatering flavors, Mango, Tropical with Guava, Mango and Passionfruit, or Apple Berry blends. Naturally vegan and gluten-free.

12. MadeGood Snacks

My son’s favorite… especially the Strawberry Granola Minis! These healthy, delicious granola-based snacks are made in a dedicated facility free from the eight common allergens: peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, dairy, egg, soy, sesame, fish and shellfish. MadeGood snacks are also organic, gluten-free and non-GMO project verified, making them the perfect school-safe snack. Choose from a variety of yummy, pint-sized snacks perfect for little ones, including Soft Baked Cookies, Crispy Light Granola, Granola Bars, Granola Minis (found at Costco!) and Crispy Squares.

13. Tree Top Clear Applesauce Pouches

Elevate kids’ back-to-school lunch game with Tree Top clear applesauce pouches! Tree Top’s new line-up of transparent pouches includes seven healthy, on-the-go fruit options. Yummy varieties include Apple, Mango, Cinnamon, Strawberry, Mixed Berry, Tropical, and my favorite, Organic. Along with being delicious, Tree Top’s pouches are also healthy: they are made with 100% American apples, and have no high fructose corn syrup or artificial flavors and colors. With each pouch at 40-60 calories, parents can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing their kids aren’t filling up on empty calories.

14. JUNKLESS Chewy Granola Bars

Seeking a snack option that your kiddos will love to find tucked in their lunchbox? JUNKLESS Chewy Granola Bars are family-friendly, better-for-you snacks that are minimally processed, contain no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, are Non-GMO Project Verified, and contain 6 grams of sugar or lower. No junk, and they taste good! The four flavors include Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, 100% REAL Strawberries and Cinnamon Roll. JUNKLESS Chewy Granola Bars are available nationally on Amazon and in select grocery stores around the country.

15. Popcornopolis Nearly Naked Popcorn

When you want to provide kids of all ages with a healthy snack they are sure to love, Nearly Naked Popcorn is a sure thing! This healthy snack contains nothing more than freshly popped American-grown gourmet popcorn tossed in a touch of coconut oil and a sprinkle of salt. One cup of Nearly Naked popcorn contains just 33 calories! This whole grain, gluten free snack is available in .55oz snack size bags that are ideal for lunch boxes, class snacks, field trips, road trips, movie nights, and more.

16. TahiniBAR

New from Absolutely Gluten Free, TahiniBAR is a grab-and-go sesame seed snack that weighs in at only 100 calories! Like tahini and its decadent dessert cousin, halvah, the energy bars are made from all-natural roasted sesame seeds. Sesame seeds help boost energy levels and are a good source of vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber, Calcium, Iron, Zinc and potassium. Much lower in calories than many other bars, this 100% gluten-free treat is available in three delectable varieties, including Cocoa Nibs, Pistachio, and Vanilla, and sold in packs of 7 bars (4.4 oz.). All varieties are certified OU Kosher and dairy-free.

17. NurturMe Organic Ancient Grains Power Blends

These superfruit, veggie and ancient grain meal pouches give little ones a nutrient-boosting tropical snack! Available in 4 yummy varieties, their Pear + Quinoa + Amaranth + Spinach and Strawberry + Banana + Amaranth pouches are my son’s favorite! Easy to tuck in your child’s lunchbox at daycare or preschool, they provide a no-mess option for little hands. Made with no gluten, soy, dairy or egg. Non-GMO.

18. NurturMe Ancient Grain Cookies

Tummy-friendly and good for you, NurturMe has combined 4 nutrient-packed ancient grains to create the perfect organic and gluten-free cookie for little ones! Made with quinoa, amaranth, millet and sorghum, the cookies do not contain dairy, soy or egg. They are available in two delicious flavors, Cocoa & Honey, and their cute shapes promote learning & play! (yes, we think it’s ok to play with your food!) Plus, they are also a complete and balanced protein with all 9 essential amino acids and immune-boosting antioxidants. Non-GMO.

*Companies generously provided samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

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Fun with Little Passports!

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Before our youngest daughter headed off to kindergarten three weeks ago, a fun package containing the Early Explorers Subscription from Little Passports arrived in the mail! She was so excited to open the suitcase, unpack it, and try her hand at all the fun activities packed inside!

LittlePassportsEE-WORLD.8-15

Little Passports merges play with geography, science, and reading to make learning fun -anytime of the year! Each month, kids receive a package from their Little Passports pen pals centered on a theme, state, or country. The packages include games, souvenirs, postcards, and more.

Little Passports intro kit

In the Early Explorers Subscription, our daughter followed pen pals Max and Mia as they learned about global themes. Everything she needed to get started on their adventure was included in a bright orange suitcase, such as a wall-sized world map, 20-page activity booklet, luggage tag, stickers and photos.

Little Passports oceans kit

With an exciting new theme each month, kids ages 3-5 years old can add stickers to their passports, collect famous landmarks like the Sphinx of ancient Egypt, and play a fishing game to learn more about what lives under the sea. Of course, our little guy wanted to get in on the action of the fishing game!

Little Passports Stickers

Additionally, Little Passports offers free digital Teacher Guides to coincide with countries featured in the World Edition. These guides make it easy and seamless for teachers or parents to integrate a World Edition subscription into their curriculum or at home with their kids. Countries featured in the Teacher Guides include Brazil, Japan, France, Egypt, Australia, and more.

We have had so much fun with the Early Explorers Subscription from Little Passports since it arrived! We are now big fans of Little Passports and our daughter keeps asking when the next month’s theme will arrive!

*Company generously provided samples and images for this article. Additional photos and thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

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