Healthy and Nutritious Toddler Snack Ideas
Finding the right snacks for your toddler can feel like an uphill battle. You need something healthy, nutritious, and easy to eat that won’t disrupt your child’s appetite levels.
If this sounds relatable, you’ve come to the right place. Here are six healthy and nutritious snacks your toddler and their little belly would love!
- Mashed Fruit or Slices
Fresh fruit is the ultimate go-to snack for toddlers. Most fruits contain fiber and essential nutrients, such as potassium and vitamins A and C. Here’s how you can add fruits to your toddler’s diet:
6-8 months – soft, mashed fruits, such as bananas and avocados or fruit purees are suitable.
9-12 months – thin slices of apples, pears, and ripe peaches can be offered. You can also grate the apple or cut it into bite-sized pieces.
12+ months – thick fruit slices are suitable. Remember to cut grapes and berries lengthwise to prevent choking.
- Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium and protein. It helps strengthen bones and improve the digestive system of your little one. Choose full-fat yogurt to prevent unnecessary sugar intake. You can always sweeten the yogurt with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
If your toddler is not a fan of plain yogurt, consider adding thinly sliced fruits, such as strawberries and blueberries.
- Oatmeal Bites
Oats are rich in fiber, protein, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins. All of these nutrients are critical for a toddler’s healthy physical and neurological development. Oatmeal bites are easy to prepare. Simply combine oats and a mashed banana and add a touch of cinnamon. Roll the mixture into tiny balls and bake until firm. You can also dip these oatmeal bites in some peanut butter.
These toddler snacks can also help introduce your toddler to new textures, which can enhance their fine motor skills and improve their chewing abilities.
- Carrot Sticks
Carrots have a ton of nutrients, such as:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B6
- Antioxidants
- Fiber
- Minerals
Cut a carrot into thin, long slices and you have a healthy toddler snack. The firm texture of carrot sticks can help soothe your toddler’s gums, especially if they’re teething. To make snack time more interesting, give your toddler a healthy, homemade dip, such as hummus.
- Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries are an excellent alternative to french fries. Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, a nutrient that contributes to healthy eyes and skin. You can also turn them into a complete meal by adding some berries on the side.
- Mini Fritters
Mini vegetable fritters or patties are an excellent snack option if you’re trying to increase your toddler’s vegetable intake. Start by steaming some vegetables, such as broccoli and spinach, and add them to some eggs. Add cheeses and milk to create a somewhat liquid mixture.
Pour the mixture into a muffin tin and bake until slightly firm. Mini vegetable fritters are the perfect fit for your toddler’s little hands. You can also freeze them and reheat whenever needed, making meal planning a breeze.
