Warm days bring endless energy—running, jumping, and all kinds of active fun. Keeping kids fueled with easy, healthy snacks helps them stay energized while supporting growth and learning. These snack ideas strike the perfect balance between nutrition and fun, whether your child attends a preschool in Silver Spring or spends the summer exploring outdoors.
Snacks with a mix of protein, fiber, and hydration are best. Think: Greek yogurt with berries, cheese cubes with apple slices, or whole-grain crackers with hummus. These provide steady energy while supporting growing bodies and minds—ideal for fueling fun all day long.
Use color, shapes, and variety! Turn fruit into rainbow skewers, cut sandwiches with cookie cutters, or create a smiley face out of sliced veggies. At programs like this silver spring preschool, mealtime can be just as playful as it is nourishing—making healthy choices exciting from the very start.
Portable snacks like trail mix, sliced cucumbers, and cheese sticks are great for families on the go. Prep snack bags ahead of time or try individual portions of nut-free granola bars and cut fruit. Having easy options on hand makes it simple to keep energy levels up during trips to the park or preschool pick-ups.
Snacks that include omega-3s, B vitamins, and antioxidants help fuel focus and memory. Try avocado toast, hard-boiled eggs, or whole-grain mini muffins with flaxseed. These brain-boosting bites are perfect for building readiness skills in curious, growing preschoolers.
Let kids take the lead! Have them wash berries, scoop yogurt into a bowl, or choose between snack options (“Would you like snap peas or carrots today?”). Programs similar to a preschool in Silver Spring often incorporate gardening and food prep to help children feel more involved—and more open to trying what they’ve helped create.
Overnight oats are a game-changer. Just mix oats, milk, and chia seeds the night before, then add fruit and a sprinkle of granola in the morning. It’s quick, nutritious, and perfect before heading out the door to preschool or camp. One more idea? Whole-grain waffles with nut butter and banana slices.
Healthy snacks do more than fill bellies—they build habits. Choosing whole foods, involving kids in prep, and offering variety teaches independence, supports emotional regulation, and builds confidence. That’s the kind of foundation any quality preschool program strives for, including those at preschool silver spring.
Looking for more helpful tips? Check out our other posts on Healthy Eating for Toddlers and Encouraging Learning Through Food Prep.
MCCA has been recognized by the Maryland State Legislature for its commitment to Montgomery County issued a quality programs and special needs child care Proclamation in 2016 to MCCA for its commitment to Montgomery County child care for more than 50 years. MCCA was also selected as a 2018 nonprofit finalist for a MOXIE Award for boldness and innovation
MCCA is the oldest nonprofit licensed child care provider in Montgomery County and started its work in 1968 as a Community Action Project of the War on Poverty. Recognizing the need for quality child care programs in their neighborhoods, a group of local activists formed an association to establish centers in Montgomery County that would serve a diverse population and establish high standards for child care. Now, more than 50 years later, MCCA’s dedicated and expertly trained staff continue their tradition of providing high quality child care and play-based education for children.
Families with school aged children who can afford their child care expenses during the school year often struggle to afford the all-day programs they need when school is out for the summer. The Richard Krampf Summer Adventures Scholarship Fund was established to help provide children a safe and stimulating place to spend their weeks when school is out. Please contact an MCCA Director for details on how to apply.