Mom’s everywhere rejoice! Today, I’m sharing 9 of my tried, tested, and true healthy snacks your toddler (and big kids, too) will love!
I don’t know about you, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years being a boy mom, it’s that my kids are ALWAYS hungry. Of course, given the chance, they opt for packaged sugary treats like pop tarts, mini muffins, fruit snacks, etc.
Don’t get me wrong. I love those things, too. I mean, you can’t deny they’re delicious! What I don’t love is all the unnecessary sugar and mystery ingredients. However, it’s not always the easiest task to get your little ones to eat much less enjoy healthier options.
So, after much trial and error, I’ve compiled a list of healthy snacks for all tastebuds or every occasion. Whether you’re looking for healthy alternatives of classic favorites, quick on-the-go items, or anything in between, I’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find the perfect snacks to satisfy your toddler – you might even like them, too!
FAVORITE HEALTHY TODDLER SNACKS
Make it Yourself Snacks
If you’ve got a few extra minutes on your hand, these snacks are fantastic options for all ages! Even better, many of them can be prepped ahead of time for great options when you’re in a pinch.
Apple “Fries” and Cheese Bites
To make this snack a little more fun, I love to cut the apple slices into a fry shape. It’s such a fun way for little fingers to enjoy their apples! The same goes for the cheese. Cut it into strips, cubes, or have fun with different shapes. Just make sure the pieces are age-appropriate and bite-sized for easy snacking. Pro-Tip: Sprinkle lemon juice on the apple slices to prevent them from browning.
Banana Bites
Be warned, these banana bites can be a bit messy! Therefore, they are best served at the table with some napkins close by! BUT, they are super delicious and an amazing healthy treat for little bellies. They’re full of fiber, healthy fats, and made with fresh fruit to satisfy your little one’s sweet tooth. All you have to do is slice the bananas, top them with nut or seed butter, add chia seed “sprinkles,” and voila! If you’re feeling really daring, have your kids help you assemble these bites.
Egg Bites with Sprinkles
Short story time, these egg bites got their name due to my middle guy adopting the term “sprinkles” to refer to Everything But the Bagel seasoning. I’m not sure where he got that idea, but who am I to argue? Especially when it gets all three of my boys not only eating but excited to eat and help make these quick, easy snacks. For this recipe, all you have to do is hard boil eggs, peel them, and top with seasoning. The added flavor and little crunch make this the perfect snack, old or young. Plus, they make a great meal prep option for busy weeks when you know you’ll need quick options!
Toddler Trail Mix
Move aside, store bought trail mix! This recipe is quick, healthy, and totally delicious! In fact, I may or may not be known to steal a nibble or two when the kids aren’t looking. All you have to do is combine multigrain cheerios, cheddar bunnies, and raisins. That’s it! Personally, I go light on the crackers as they serve as more of a filler than a healthy additive. Nonetheless, this mix is high in fiber, low in sugar, and great to pack in diaper bags, backpacks, and stored in the pantry!
Blueberries
Okay, this might be cheating a bit. There’s nothing fancy here. However, I’m a firm believer in the phrase, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” and this snack is definitely not broken. High in fiber, low in sugar, and packed with fiber, vitamins, and nutrients, blueberries are an amazing healthy snack at any age! Even better, my toddler loves to help me clean, dry, and consume these little blue bites. Of course, as with everything, be sure they are cut to suit your child’s needs if needed.
Prepared and On the Go Snacks
The truth is, being a mom is tough, and we don’t always have the time to spend making and cleaning up snacks in the kitchen. For those times when you need something easy and convenient, I’ve tested nearly every product on the market. Don’t worry, I’m only giving you the best of the best!
Before you skip over this one, hear me out! My middle guy has always loved these. No, really! Admittedly, while the sound of seaweed might not be something you think your toddler will love, I highly recommend giving them a try. Maybe, just forget to mention that it’s seaweed when you serve them. However, I’ve found that if you can get your little ones to try these, they go over well as a healthy snack for all ages – including moms! Salty and crunchy, Seasnax are an amazing, delicious chip alternative. Even better, if you’re interested in giving these a whirl feel free to use my code JOYINTHEMEANTIME for 15% off when you visit the website.
These bars are AMAZING! Seriously, don’t pass up on these easy snacks. Not only are they delicious, they’re also packed with real ingredients and none of that fake stuff I can’t even pronounce. In addition, they also contain no added sugars and are created to help with brain development. How cool is that?! While I keep these on hand (like, at all times) for my toddler, my older boys have been known to snag a few, too!
Fresh Bellies Fruit and Veggie Snacks
My toddler LOVES these! Like fruit snacks, but better, these Fresh Bellies Fruit and Veggie Snacks use real ingredients, are freeze dried, and never fried! They come in a wide variety of fruit and veggie options and deliver a super satisfying crunch. Not only are they delicious, these snacks are a great way to easily introduce new foods and flavors into your toddler’s diet. For instance, my little guy’s favorites are mango and red pepper. If you want to give them a go, feel free to use the code; JOYIN for 15% off your order!
Have you heard of Serenity? It’s such a cool brand! A few things that first drew me to Serenity include their ethically sourced ingredients from small farms, the lack of any sugary fruits in their products, the inclusion of healthy fats. However, my favorite thing about these Serenity Kids Pouches is that they are an amazing way to provide high quality protein in my toddler’s starch-preferred diet. In all honesty, we have been using these snack pouches ever since my youngest started solids. Now, that the kids are a bit older, these pouches are one of our go-to toddler snacks! If you want to try these pouches, or any other of Serenity’s products, you can use the code JOYINTHEMEANTIME for 15% off your first order. I appreciate your support. Yer, if you prefer not to use the code, I completely understand!
So, there you have it – 9 of my all-time-favorite, go-to healthy snacks for toddlers. Whether you’re looking for fun ways to create new snacks or just need something to hold you over on the go, I’m confident your little ones will love these snacks!
More Toddler-Friendly Snacks and Meals
Snacks are a necessity in any mom’s life if she wants to remain sane. However, we can’t just feed our kids fruit and granola bars all day. Although, I have a feeling my little ones wouldn’t complain. For times when you need a quick lunch or dinner recipe, movie night treats, or even more healthy snacks, I’ve got you covered with these great recipes.
Do you have any go-to recipes or products I should know about? If so, please leave them in the comments below! I’m always looking for new snack and meal ideas. ALSO, if you make or try any of these suggestions, be sure to tag me on Instagram. I’d love to see your recreations!
In the meantime, enjoy!
Karin
P.S. This page may contain affiliate links. Of course, you’re not obligated to use them, but I appreciate the love if you do!
