Does your child need to follow a gluten-free diet? According to an article on EatRight.org, “Because gluten helps make foods taste better and improves their texture, it’s also added to everything from deli meats to French fries. For most children gluten is completely harmless, with two exceptions. Nutritionist Tricia Thompson says, ‘Children should be following a gluten-free diet if they’ve been diagnosed with celiac disease or with non-celiac gluten sensitivity.’” If you suspect your child has gluten sensitivities, check with your pediatrician to get it confirmed.
Once they’ve been told to follow a gluten-free diet, there are still plenty of delicious foods your child can eat. Here are some gluten-free snacks to start with.
Juice Popsicles
These gluten-free snacks for kids (and adults, too!) are super-easy to make. Simply pour your favorite juice into a Popsicle mold and place in the freezer until frozen. They make for a great after-lunch or dinner snack!
Yogurt Sundae
Make a healthy breakfast “sundae” with Greek yogurt topped with fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries. If your kids are looking for more of a sweet treat, serve them some of their favorite frozen yogurt or ice cream with fruit for an indulgent yet healthy snack. You can even add in some Crispy Pineapples if you don’t have fresh fruit handy!
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Hummus and Veggies
Nix the pita chips and opt for some fresh veggies, such as celery sticks and baby carrots, to dunk into your favorite hummus spread. Hummus is rich in protein and has tons of essential vitamins and nutrients, making it a parent’s first choice when it comes to gluten-free snacks for kids.
Use Gluten-Free Mixes to Bake Your Own Treats
Consider buying gluten-free baking mixes, like those from gluten-free expert (and mom) Jules Shepard. On GFJules.com, you can buy her bread mixes and baking mixes as well as tons of gluten-free recipes, from cakes, to pizza, even tacos!
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
If you are dealing with finicky-eaters, try whipping up some yummy Strawberry Banana Smoothies for them to enjoy after school. Chop up 2 fresh bananas and throw them in your blender along with 8 strawberries. Add about a ½ cup of vanilla yogurt, a ½ cup of milk and a ½ cup of ice and blend until smooth. So delish!
Ham & Cheese “Roll-Ups”
If you’re looking for gluten-free snacks for kids that pack a ton of protein, look no further! Roll up a slice of ham along with a slice of American cheese and stick a toothpick in the middle to create an easy snack that will be sure to fill up even the hungriest child. Add a few to your kid’s lunchbox and watch them devour these delicious roll-ups!
GF Ice Cream Sandwich Bars
Now these, our favorite out of all gluten-free snacks for kids, are something everyone in the family will be sure to love! These gluten-free ice cream sandwiches are absolutely delicious and a breeze to make (they’re no bake!). Click here to get the full recipe from About.com!