Let's face it, some toddlers are just picky eaters. However, it's important to keep trying and encourage your toddler to try different foods. Sometimes it is the texture and not even the flavor that detours the toddler and sometimes it's just the day. Toddlers are learning and exploring the world around them, they are doing this with food as well.
Also, change up how the food is prepared. Some kids love fresh carrots, while others like them cooked and they can be fried, boiled or microwaved. There are many ways to cook many of the vegetables and season them too. Trying different dips as well as condiments could help the toddler like some of the foods that are good for them. Of course, keeping the dips and condiments to a minimum to ensure good nutrition.
1. Whole Grain Cereal
Whole Grain cereal is a great source for many vitamins and minerals. But, it also is high in fiber. A bowl of whole-grain cereal complete with milk and some berries is a powerful way to start the day.
2. Cheese
Cheese is full of protein and very kid-friendly. Many kids love cheese and it's easy for them to carry and eat. Just cutting it right from the block, many kids love it. But, you can also have some fun and use cookie cutters and cut the cheese snacks into shapes as well. Use the scraps in dinner!
3. Yogurt
Low-fat yogurt is high in calcium and kids love it with some berries in there for flavor and a powerful antioxidant kick. Add some whole-grain cereal for a Yogurt parfait that is always a hit and adds some of that great fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Yum!
4. Strawberries
Strawberries are an amazing source of Vitamin C for little ones and they are certainly tasty as well. They are full of vitamins as well as a protein-rich snack that will surely be loved.
5. Eggs
Eggs are not only a very affordable and nutritious snack but they can be made in all kinds of ways. Toddlers love eggs and they are great for their little growing bodies! Eggs can be made into omelets with veggies inside to add to their nutritiousness. Eggs are easy to make and great for those that are on the go a lot.
They are also a meal that is good heated up. So making a batch of scrambled eggs to have on hand for your little one isn't a bad idea.
Also, kids of love hard-boiled eggs and they are easy to store in the fridge to have as a snack at a moments notice. Eggs are packed with nutrition and are high in protein.
6. Quesadillas
These can contain all kinds of things from calcium-rich cheese to various veggies and even eggs! They are easy for little hands to grab and eat as well.
7. Noodles
Noodles are a great source of fiber and complex carbohydrates. Getting them enriched with vitamins will make them even a better option. And, top them with just about anything.
8. Raisins
Raisins are a quick and easy snack for toddlers that are both yummy and rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamins.
9. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, potassium and Vitamin K1. They can be eaten alone, or put them on a sandwich or a Quesadilla.
10. Apples
Well, they don't say "Eat an Apple and day to keep the doctor away" for nothing. Apples are a great source of vitamin C and fiber. They can be eaten raw or cooked in things.
11. Avocado
Avocado is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Plus, it contains fiber, folate, and several vitamins, including A and C, making it a super health food for toddlers. Serve avocados chunky (finger-food style) or mash it up in a guacamole recipe!
12. Beans
Like eggs, beans wrap up a lot of nutrition in a tiny package. For starters, they provide a ton of fiber (there’s a reason they’re called the musical fruit, right?) as well as iron and protein. And, again like eggs, beans are versatile and extremely kid-friendly. Use them in healthy foods such as soups, chili, soft tacos, served solo as finger food, or pureed as bean dip or hummus with some whole-grain pita strips on the side.
NOTE: Of course we know that there will be some little ones that have allergies! Every individual is unique and as parents, we have to make sure every little one is catered for if they do have allergies or reactions to some foods. We also cater to this need with our Medibands!