Tips And Ideas For Feeding Kids Quickly And On A Busy Schedule

The amazing, Darcy Grumke, is welcomed back this week with another amazing topic geared to help parents, babysitters, grandparents or caretakers for kids this Summer! Darcy has been a Registered Dietitian for 10 years, has a Masters in Medical Nutrition Therapy and tons of experience in the industry. We are so lucky to have Darcy as our current Practice Manager at Racquel Aesthetics! She doesn’t currently practice in nutrition, but truly finds passion in sharing her knowledge with as many as possible!! Take it away Darcy!

The end of another school year is upon us. Crazy to think that it was just the holidays, time flies when you’re having fun!

As the end of the year activities pick up, parents tend to find themselves running from one practice or event to another. Snacks and meals end up on the fly or in the drive through. Not always a bad thing, but I guarantee better choices can be made. 

Easy & nutritious Breakfast

Start the day with a solid breakfast – studies have shown that those kids who do eat a solid breakfast perform better and focus better in the classroom. I’m talking a protein forward, balanced breakfast not a bowl of cereal breakfast. 

Protein, as we know from previous blogs, helps to keep us feeling full longer and doesn’t overwhelm the system with sugar. 

• Pair some eggs with fruit and toast
• Have oatmeal but add in peanut butter and protein powder
• String cheese, hard boiled eggs, and fruit
• A breakfast sandwich with egg, cheese, and Canadian bacon. 

All are great simple options that have a balance of protein, carbs, and fat to help start the day off right for your kiddos, and you. They are even simple enough to prepare ahead of time. 

I like to bake eggs in a muffin tin (350 for 12ish minutes) then have them ready to go for quick easy meals. 

For Lunch/Even Dinner On-The-Go

I’m a big fan of sandwiches. My mom makes them the best, but I am pretty positive everyone thinks their mom makes the best sandwiches. 

Sandwiches: Deli turkey, ham, chicken or sliced chicken breasts, pork tenderloin steak – you name it, it can be a sandwich. Some quality bread, cheese and a light spread can go a long way. Pair with baby carrots or other sliced veggies and maybe a piece of fruit and you are good to go. 

Homemade “lunchables” are an easy way to go as well. They make so many fun containers to make things more fun. Add in some sliced meat, cheese, fruit and veggies, with a side of crackers. 

I know most of these things might involve bringing a cooler, but it sure beats the line at fast food. 

If you are in a pinch and need to eat out

It’s inevitable that sometimes you are going to need to eat out. So I want to provide some “better for you” options in the event you find yourself needing to pick up food.

Chick- fil-A grilled nuggets, salads, and fruit

Find healthy meal prep locations in your area to pop in and grab some – our local Fit Flavors and Supplement Superstores have microwaves and a place to sit and eat. 

Chipotle and Qudoba (when ordered with macros in mind) can be great options and their kids meals are great. 

For a quick dinner when you get home late – a rotisserie chicken with frozen or canned veggies and a microwaved sweet potato (make sure to poke with a fork before cooking so it doesn’t explode) can be a quick less than 7 minute dinner. 

I hope this helps you realize that even on the go, it’s simple to prepare a balanced, healthy meal for yourself and children! Here is to a healthy, safe & fun summer!

XO-

Darcy