5 affordable snacks to keep your child energised at school
By Cynthia Lodite, September 2, 2026With the cost of food continuing to put pressure on many Kenyan households, packing a school snack does not have to mean buying expensive packaged foods every day.
A good snack should help keep a child satisfied between meals while adding useful nutrients to their diet. Simple foods that are readily available in local markets can be affordable and easy to prepare.
Here are five options parents can consider.
1. Bananas
Bananas are one of the easiest fruits to pack for school. They are affordable, filling and provide carbohydrates that can give children energy during the day.
They also require little preparation. Simply wash the fruit and place it in the child’s lunch bag or snack container.
2. Boiled sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a familiar and affordable food in many Kenyan homes. They provide carbohydrates and fibre and can be prepared in advance.
Parents can boil a few sweet potatoes in the morning or the previous evening, allow them to cool and pack a portion for the child’s break time.
For variety, they can be served alongside a fruit or another suitable snack.
3. Roasted or boiled maize
Maize is another budget-friendly option that can make a satisfying school snack. Boiled maize can be prepared at home and packed once it has cooled.
It provides carbohydrates and fibre, making it a more filling option than many sugary snacks.
Parents should ensure the maize is prepared hygienically and packed in a clean, covered container.
4. Groundnuts
Groundnuts can provide protein, healthy fats and other nutrients, making them a useful addition to a child’s snack.
A small portion of roasted groundnuts can be packed alongside fruit. However, parents should first check whether the school allows nuts and whether the child has a known nut allergy.
For younger children, whole nuts may also pose a choking risk, so age-appropriate preparation is important.
5. Homemade mandazi
Mandazi can be an affordable homemade snack, particularly when prepared in batches at home. Making them yourself can also allow you to control the ingredients and portion sizes.
However, mandazi should not be the only snack a child gets every day. Pairing a small portion with fruit or another nutritious food can make the snack more balanced.