I will admit that we’re still finding our way with the time we have. Now that the kids take the school bus, we have nearly an hour less time together in the morning, and about a half hour less time together in the afternoon. And that’s without after school activities. I realize every day how precious this time is right now. And I realize we’re always told to enjoy the kids while they’re young, but that doesn’t mean that quality time doesn’t get lost in the day-to-day shuffle and sprint. It’s important to remain present whenever possible. I have to remind myself that a lot. That’s why after school time is crucial.

1 – Tackle work/practice together. We have a bit of an odd situation in that 4th grade doesn’t give homework, except for reading. And Des is in first grade and DOES have homework. This makes for perfect after-snack time. I set a timer for Scarlet to practice piano, and having me involved gives her more of a spark to do it, and enjoy it. Then she can help me to help Des with his homework, should he need help. And then we all read together! Since they both have to read for school, and I love reading more than anything, this works for all of us. We’re being productive together, and having fun doing so. I know I am!

2 – Get exercise together. If Scarlet has track, Des and I arrive to pickup early so we can run around as well. We’ll also throw a frisbee. If they both come home on the bus, well that’s easy. Our walk back to the house is really long since we live in a wooded clearing – pretty far from the road. I always bring the dog as well so we can all burn off energy.

3 – Play games together. It always surprises me how much my kids love games, and it should stop surprising me by now! They love games. That’s wonderful. It’s a way to teach sportsmanship, communication, and following instructions. I’m not going to say that there’s no bickering, but maybe that’s all part of the process of problem-solving and growing together!

4 – Have dinner together. And I’m talking no screens or books, although I’m the biggest book offender. This is the time for conversation! This is the time to relax and laugh and tell stories about the day. I always ask my kids their highs and lows – and that’s the best and worst parts of their days. I also ask who they sat with at lunch, who they played with at recess, and if they learned any new jokes that day. Hey, whatever works!

5 – Have snack together. This is probably the most important one, which is why I saved it for last. The thing is, after school snack is the FIRST thing you’ll do together after school, so make it count. We do that with Kraft SnackFUNS.

We have such busy lives, as parents and as families. There’s school, working more than one job, after school sports, weekends, parties, family events, and after school practices and lessons. Having these delicious grab-and-go snacks is a MUST! Sometimes that magical after school half hour or so is at home, but sometimes it’s not. Wherever you are, this after school snack time matters. That’s why we kick it up a notch with these inventive flavors. And I eat them too.

With flavors like Cookies & Crackers, Strawberry Waffles and S’mores, there’s a lot to love with Kraft SnackFUNS. Also they are a good source of protein. They’re the perfect snack for adults and kids alike! And this is why. Parents want wholesome snacks. Kids want fun snacks. Kraft SnackFUNS are both, so it’s a win-win situation.

They are playful, kid-friendly snack mixes, and I love that they’re inspired by family favorite treats and feature unique ingredients. Each flavor includes real, creamy Kraft Natural Cheese for that wholesome snack anchor, and then sweet, indulgent treats to spark excitement. And I’m talking dried strawberries and waffle crisps (Scarlet’s favorite), graham crackers and mini marshmallows, and bite-sized cookie treats (Des’ favorite). These are real ingredients and good sources of protein.