Preparing your own snacks is the best way to control what your children eat, but sometimes packaged snacks offer a convenient option.

If you are looking for healthier packaged snacks, here is a list to get you started.

For snacks, include a minimum of two food groups from Canada's Food Guide with at least one serving of vegetables and fruit.

Yogurt comes in many forms -- squeezable tubes, drinkable shakes and mini yogurts. Choose one with no more than 2.5 per cent milk fat and at least 15 per cent of the daily value for calcium.

Look for whole grains and other complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat flour or rolled oats in the ingredients list. Whole grains are more nutritious than simple or refined carbohydrates such as bleached flour.

-- Source: Student Nutrition Program Nutrition Guidelines

Chwen Johnson is a Registered Dietitian with the City of Hamilton, Public Health Services. Readers with questions are invited to call the Nutrition & Physical Activity Advice Line at 905-546-3630