10 Snacks for Toddler’s Growing Minds and Bodies

Parents want their children to be healthy, and that includes selecting healthy snacks when hunger strikes. The right foods can give a toddler the balance of nutrients he needs to be healthy and grow. Here are 10 snacks that should be in every parent’s arsenal to help their toddler’s minds and bodies to grow.

1. Grapes

Grapes are a source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants that can support a growing toddler. Grapes are a perfect snack for on-the-go. For toddlers younger than 4, cut grapes into small bite-sized pieces to help lessen the risk of choking.

2. Hummus and Veggies

Hummus is a great dip for toddlers to enjoy with vegetables. Healthy dippers include carrots, cucumbers, peppers and celery. A mild hummus like classic or roasted red pepper will usually appeal to little taste buds.

3. Cheese Sticks

Cheese sticks are a great source of protein and calcium, but choose low-sodium and low-fat varieties. String cheese sticks are easy to manage and they can help boost your toddler’s calcium intake.

4. Avocado

Avocado provides a healthy fat, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Try cutting an avocado in half, remove the pit and serve it scoop-style with a spoon.

5. Unsalted Nuts

Unsalted nuts are a good source of protein, vitamins and healthy fats. Make sure to check for peanut allergies before offering nuts as snacks.

6. Fruit Salad

Fruit naturally has a lot of sugar, so keep portions small. Offering a variety of fruits can be a fun way to add variety and nutrition to snack time. Not all toddlers will like a fruit salad, so consider single-fruit snacks like apples or bananas.

7. Whole-Grain Crackers

Whole-grain crackers are a great source of fiber, B vitamins and other vitamins. To appeal to toddler’s taste buds, try adding a little cheese, fruit or nut butter to the mix.

8. Smoothies

Smoothies are a great way to get fruit and protein into the mix. A smoothie can mask the taste of certain healthy ingredients, like spinach, that a toddler may not love to eat on its own.

9. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a great snack for toddlers because it’s packed with protein, calcium and other essential vitamins. For a fun twist, layer Greek yogurt with fruit and honey for a delicious and nutritious snack.

10. Trail Mix

Kids love to eat trail mix because it’s a great mix of salty and sweet. Most store-bought trail mixes are filled with extra sugar and salt, so try to make your own with unsalted nuts, dried fruit and seeds.

These snacks are nutritious, but keep portion sizes small and balance them with other snacks and meals. With these snacks, you’ll be sure to give your toddler the nutrients they need to help them grow and develop.

Healthy Snack Ideas for Your Toddler:

• Grapes
• Hummus and Veggies
• Cheese Sticks
• Avocado
• Unsalted Nuts
• Fruit Salad
• Whole-Grain Crackers
• Smoothies
• Greek Yogurt
• Trail Mix