Snacks

• Children need carbohydrates and liquids to keep their energy up until lunch time. For easy snacks, try whole grain crackers and a handful of grapes (if your child is old enough) or apple slices; rice cakes or a banana and box juice; or nuts and orange juice.
• Just say no to their pleas for pre-packaged snack packs of simulated "cheese" and low quality crackers or meats. It's very easy to make your own healthy version of these packaged snacks by filling a small re-usable container with yogurt and another with baked pretzels for dipping. Or grate jack cheese and send it off packed with corn chips and small squares of turkey breast.

Desserts

• Mouthwatering desserts can be as nutritious as the main meal. Mix applesauce with maple syrup, honey, jelly, cinnamon, or even a few dribbles of chocolate, occasionally.
• Got a juicer? Freeze "juiced" bananas or pears. Put in a small container with a lid. This is a yummy alternative to ice cream.
• Trying to sneak veggies into the meal? Don't forget carrot cake and zucchini bread, which are especially nutritious if you have the time to make them yourself.