I still remember my 5th-grade art class with fondness. Every Tuesday, our incredible teacher, Mrs. Johnson, would arrive with 15 little bags of Cheez-Its, apple juice boxes, and an oatmeal cookie for each kid. Those Tuesdays were the highlight of my week, and even now, as fall rolls around, the combination of Cheez-Its and apple juice brings me comfort. (Trust me, give it a shot!)
Now, I know these snacks weren’t the healthiest, but that was the ’80s. Parents were more focused on keeping us engaged after school than micromanaging our diets. Mrs. Johnson didn’t have to provide these treats, but you could see how much joy it brought her to watch us enjoy them before we dove into our clay projects and painted each other’s portraits.
Fast forward to today, and snack bags have become a norm for kids’ activities. After every game, it’s common for parents to take turns supplying snacks. Yet, I constantly hear complaints about this task from many parents, which is honestly a bit disheartening.
Hey, parents, let’s take a breath and stop stressing over snack bags! I know I might sound a bit annoying right now, but I genuinely enjoy putting these little treats together. It’s a simple way to contribute, and it actually provides a nice break from my daily routine. Plus, there’s something gratifying about seeing kids excitedly grab a bag of goldfish crackers or juice pouches.
Why We Should Embrace Snack Bags
Here’s why I think we should embrace snack bags. For starters, I find joy in sharing snacks with kids. Even if they don’t fully appreciate it in the moment, it fosters a sense of community and mutual support.
Secondly, they do need a little nourishment after running around, even if it wasn’t a super intense game. Let’s be real; most adults crave a snack after binge-watching their favorite show, and they’re done growing! So a little boost is definitely warranted.
Third, snacks add an element of fun and anticipation. Food has a magical way of bringing people together, and taking a moment after a game to bond over snacks is much more enjoyable than rushing home. It’s a great way to wrap up an exciting event.
And let’s not forget—most kids will be asking for a snack as soon as they get home, so why not contribute by bringing those snack bags when it’s your turn? If it feels like a chore, remember that you’ll soon have some peaceful post-game downtime to enjoy.
Coaches often provide parents with lists of players and any dietary restrictions, making it easier to ensure everyone gets to enjoy the snacks. The reality is that for some kids, snack bags can be the only treat they receive that day. So when you’re feeling burdened about picking up extra cheese sticks, think about how much you might be brightening someone’s day.
Snack bags can bring joy to kids, so let’s stop the complaints. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive—just a small gesture can create lasting memories. And if little Timmy claims your snacks are “gross,” who cares? That’s just a chance for him to learn that not every snack will be a hit.
No, providing snacks isn’t mandatory, but it’s like those little indulgences we all enjoy—whether it’s an extra scoop of hot fudge on ice cream or a peaceful drive with your favorite coffee. These small gestures can make a big difference.
If I can help create positive memories for kids through something as simple as a snack bag, then that’s more than enough motivation for me to keep doing it.
For more insights and tips, check out our other post about creating joyful experiences for kids here. And if you’re interested in crafting ideas, you can find expert advice at this link. For additional resources on nutrition, especially during activities, visit MedlinePlus.
In summary, snack bags, while often seen as a nuisance, can actually foster community, nourish our kids, and create memories. Instead of viewing them as a burden, let’s appreciate the joy they can bring.