A simple idea for school event refreshments is offering a variety of snack foods. Popcorn, chips and cookies will be popular among most students. Adding healthier snacks like pretzels, fruit slices and a vegetable tray will provide healthier options for all students while providing something for students that may be on a restricted diet.
Sandwiches are a flexible option for school event refreshments. Pick two or three sandwiches and make them ahead of time. Ham and cheese, turkey, and peanut butter and jelly are popular choices. If possible, offer packets of mustard and mayonnaise instead of adding it directly to the sandwiches. Children can add these condiments if they want them, but they can also eat plain sandwiches if they prefer. Some sub sandwich restaurants may offer a discount rate if you prefer to have the event catered.
Many kids love pizza, and according to the Michigan State University Extension pizza can be a healthy choice. If you are able to make pizza yourself for your event, you can choose low-fat cheese and low-sodium sauces. Buying pizza from a local pizza shop is an easy option for school events. Call ahead to see if they will offer you a discount for purchasing multiple pizzas or for picking them up yourself. Provide plain cheese or vegetable options for children who do not like typical pizza toppings.
If your school event is outdoors, such as a football game or bonfire, you may want to grill hamburgers and hot dogs. If you choose this option, provide a station for adding ketchup, mustard and other toppings. Provide salad or other options for those kids who do not wish to eat these foods.