Gymnastics Australia have released some fantastic information developed by Sports Dietitians Australia about fueling our active kids.  Developed as a guide for parents, coaches and team managers, it gives some fantastic ideas and information about how to encourage healthy eating in younger gymnasts (specifically ages 5-11), so they feel great and can train and perform to the best of their ability. Active kids need constant refueling - not just for their physical activity, but also for their growth, development, health and well being.  Read the full article here - and check out our favourite hints from the booklet about High Performance Snacks in the lead up to competition. Some great snack ideas for your young gymnast, heading to competition:

• Bread, crumpets or English muffins with jam, honey or vegemite
• Fresh fruit or a snack pack of canned fruit
• Sandwich with cheese, peanut butter *, honey or jam
• Vegetable pieces or crackers with low fat dip
• Breakfast cereal with milk
• Yoghurt, custard, rice pudding, creamed rice
• Fruit and grain bars
• Pita chips, pretzels or crackers
• Fruit bun or raisin toast with jam
• Corn and rice crackers, corn thins or rice cakes
• Scones, pikelets, pancakes
• Milk based smoothie with fruit
• Quick cook noodles
• Milkshakes
• Fresh Sushi rolls
• Home made popcorn (minus the salt and the butter)
• Trail mix with nuts *, seeds, dried fruit
• Canned spaghetti or baked beans

* Reminder, if attending school or gymnastics class after eating nuts, be aware of children who may have nut allergies and wash up before you arrive! Happy snacking!