September 2026
Kids are hungry after school, but it can be hard to find time to prepare a healthy snack. Instead, try stocking the fridge and cabinets with healthy alternatives so your kids can make healthier choices.
Check out this list of make-ahead meals and treats — and easy snacks to keep on hand for when you lack the time to plan ahead.
Soups & stews
Soups and stews are easy to scoop out into a bowl and warm in a microwave. Here are five soups and stews you can make ahead and bring to work — and leave some in the fridge for a quick and nutritious after-school meal.
Vegetarian Chipotle Sweet Potato Chili
One Pot Beef, Barley, and Vegetable Stew
Savory one-pan meals
These one-pan meals work well when prepared in advance. You can bring some to work and also leave some in the fridge for hungry children.
Ham, Cheese, and Broccoli Stuffed Bread
Apple & Turkey Sausage Breakfast Strata
Sweet Treats
Healthy eating doesn’t mean no sweet treats. Instead, focus on dessert-like foods that are rich in fruit, fiber, and whole grains — and lower in sugar.
Sheet Pan Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Cookies
No time to prepare ahead? Try these options.
Busy families don’t always have time to prepare food in advance. Here are some things to keep on hand that require minimal or no prep. Elementary school kids can even do some of the work themselves.
Fresh fruit: Bananas, apples, grapes, mandarins/clementines
Cabinet: Lightly-salted peanuts, raisins, whole-wheat crackers, almonds
Refrigerator: Cheese sticks, yogurt, boiled eggs, milk
Kids DIY: Air-popped popcorn, crackers & cheese, whole wheat English muffin with peanut butter and jelly, milk & frozen fruit smoothie
