Toddlers need at least two snacks a day, and of course you want to feed your little ones healthy snacks to help them grow and thrive. But what’s considered healthy? There are so many snacks out there that are marketed as “healthy,” but actually contain a lot of sugar and high fructose corn syrup! Granola bars and muffins are just a few great examples of what not to feed your toddler, even though they’re commonly thought of as “healthy” food. We came up with a list of healthy snacks you can give your little ones to help them grow strong — and most importantly, healthy.
Whole Wheat Cereal
Whole wheat cereals, like Cheerios, are a great snack option for kids. They have tons of vitamins, calcium, and fiber. My son would stack them up as high as he could and when the stack would fall he would laugh and eat them — they turned into fun snacks, which is never a bad thing!
Bananas
Bananas are full of potassium and vitamin B6! Make sure not to overdo it with this sweet but healthy snack, though, because too much of them can cause constipation.
Strawberries
Strawberries are a rich source of antioxidants and vitamin C. They help support your kid’s immune system and improve heart health. Plus, you can cut them into cute shapes, which is great for any toddler!
Yogurt
Most yogurts often provide calcium, potassium, and vitamin D, which are important nutrients in the growth and development of your child. The protein found in yogurt is important for your child's bone health — just make sure to check out the sugar content before letting your little one indulge.
Raisins
Raisins are full of fiber, potassium and vitamins. They’re great for brain development as well as physical development, thanks to their high levels of phosphorus minerals. Raisins can also help move things along when your toddler is constipated.
Apples
Apples give your child a healthy does of pectin and are full of both vitamin C and fiber. And what kid doesn’t love apple slices?
Cheese
Who doesn’t love cheese, right? Cheese is a great snack for kids because it’s full of protein and calcium. Calcium is extremely important during your toddler’s developmental years because it helps build up their bone mass and helps them grow stronger.
Eggs
Eggs are a fantastic source of iron, protein, and vitamins A, D, E, and B12. Incorporating eggs into your children’s diet will help them grow up healthy, strong, and smart.
Pears
Pears provide a healthy dose of vitamin C and fiber, and help your child build strong muscles and bones. They’re also great for helping with constipation!
Almonds
Almonds are high in fiber, protein, vitamin E, calcium, zinc, potassium, and magnesium — all of which help kids grow!
*Make sure your child doesn’t have any nut allergies before trying to give them almonds, and always consult your pediatrician when making major changes to your child’s diet.
