Summer’s quickly coming to a close and the kids are already back-to-school. The new school year goes hand-in-hand with a busy schedule. Families can get the school year off to a great start with some great timesaving tips. As a bonus mom’s can make a quick and easy snack to pack. The Rainforest Chewy Bars recipe is a snap to make and the kids will love them. First lets start with some essential tips to keep everything together as you get the kids off to school.
To-Do Lists: When you’re juggling many different tasks, it’s easy to forget those daily chores that need to get done. You can keep things on track by making a daily to-do list that will help keep you organized. Check-off the most important tasks first, especially the ones you dislike, in order to get them out of the way. This will keep you focused and help prioritize your day, allowing you to relax later and spend more quality time with the family.
Packed Lunches: Most schools offer lunch, but if you’re not satisfied with what’s being served you can prepare them yourself. The morning is usually too hectic so it’s best to put them together the night before each school day. You can be frugal and creative by pre-packing leftovers, sandwiches, juice boxes and snacks. If your child is old enough to assist, get them to help. Plan the week’s meals on the weekend to make sure that you have all the ingredients and items you need.
Backpacks: Not only are backpacks a kid’s fashion statement, they are essential for them to haul around everything they need at school. To make sure they are out the door on time have them gather and pack all of the items they will need the night before: homework, assignments, books and signed forms. Put their backpacks by the front door so you can quickly add their lunch and snacks before they leave the house.
Clothes: Kids aren’t immune to the same pressure of looking stylish as we are, nor do they want to be seen wearing the same outfit twice in a week. To avoid them stressing out in the morning, plan a school week’s worth of outfits on the weekend. Everyday have the kids prepare the next day’s outfit the night before. This will cut down on last-minute searches and clothes changing.
Easy Recipes Another way to save time is to prepare easy, on-the-go snacks that kids can take anywhere. Don’t forget to add a variety of fresh fruit and veggie sticks to your shopping list. This recipe for Rainforest Chewy Bars only takes ten minutes to make, and it’s a treat the kids are guaranteed to enjoy.
Read Related: Healthy Back To School Breakfasts
RAINFOREST CHEWY BARS
Cook Time: 10 min.
Makes: 24 bars
Ingredients:
¼ cup honey
2 Tbsp. butter
1 pkg. (10 oz.) marshmallows (about 36 marshmallows)
6 cups Honey Bunches of Oats Cereal
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1 cup almonds, chopped
½ cup sunflower kernels
Instructions:
1. Microwave the honey and butter in a large microwaveable bowl on HIGH for 1 minute; stir until well blended.
2. Add the marshmallows and toss to coat.
3. Microwave 1-1 ½ min. or until the marshmallows are puffed. Stir until well blended.
4. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
5. Press the cereal mixture firmly into a greased 13×9-inch pan. Cool and cut into 24 bars.
Note: You can substitute dried cranberries or raisins for the apricots.
Recipe & food photo courtesy Post Foods.
