When I was younger, we usually got one or two treats at most on Valentine’s Day. In the morning, we had a special breakfast of heart-shaped Jell-O. Since it was a once-a-year treat we were always very excited about digging into the red jiggling hearts.

Later that day, we each received a small heart-shaped box of assorted chocolates, usually featuring a fun cartoon character on the front.

Times have changed a lot since then and while I still prefer a minimalist approach to the day, there’s not much I can do about the huge packages of candy my boys bring home from school.

Valentine’s Day has become almost like a second Halloween for many, and every cute paper Valentine that is exchanged at school now also includes chocolate, lollipops or other treats.

So what’s a parent with a desire for healthy Valentine’s Day snacks to do? Get creative of course! February is also Heart Health Month and one of the best ways to ensure a healthy heart is by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. That’s why, instead of Jell-O this year, I’ll be feeding my boys these adorable Fruit Pops for breakfast!

Just stick a skewer into a strawberry or slice of banana, dip it in your children’s favourite natural yoghurt and then roll the pop in granola! While I store the pops in the refrigerator until serving, I’m sure they would be delicious frozen as well. [Read more…]