Healthy Snacks For Toddlers

As a parent, it can be a constant challenge to always have healthy and delicious snacks on hand for your young kids. Some toddlers can be picky eaters, making it challenging to find snacks that are both nutritious and appealing to them. But fret not; this guide will share some healthy snack ideas you can try, providing a variety of snack options that are sure to please even the fussiest of eaters!

Healthy Snack Ideas

Here are some easy snacks that you can make at home to ensure that your little one stays healthy and satisfied:

1. Fruit and Vegetable Snack Ideas

Fruits and vegetables are fantastic snack options for toddlers. They are packed with fibre, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for healthy growth and development. Here are some healthy fruit and vegetable snack ideas:

• Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: Core and slice an apple, then spread a thin layer of peanut butter on each slice.
• Carrot and Cucumber Sticks: Cut carrots and cucumbers into sticks for easy dipping.
• Berry Mix: Combine strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colourful and nutritious snack.
• Avocado Slices: Slice a ripe avocado and sprinkle a little lemon juice over it to prevent browning.
• Sweet Potato Chips: Slice sweet potatoes thinly, toss with olive oil, and bake until crispy.
• Grapes: Wash and dry grapes, then cut them in quarters to prevent choking.

If you’re in a pinch, these snacks can be prepared ahead of time, stored in airtight containers, and refrigerated. We recommend storing carrot and cucumber sticks in water to maintain their crispness.

2. Shelf-Stable Treats

Shelf-stable snacks are those that can be stored at room temperature without spoiling. These are great for busy parents who need snacks that can be kept in the pantry. Here are some healthy snacks for toddlers and kids that fit the bill:

• Whole Grain Crackers: Look for crackers made from whole grains.
• Dried Fruit: Options like apricots, raisins, and apple chips are excellent choices.
• Rice Cakes: These can be topped with peanut butter or cheese.
• Freeze-Dried Fruits: Small servings of freeze-dried fruits, such as strawberries and bananas, are perfect for on-the-go.
• Granola Bars: Choose those with minimal added sugar and whole ingredients.

3. Whole Grain Tidbits

Whole grains are rich in fibre and essential nutrients, making them an excellent choice for toddler snacks. Here are some ideas:

• Mini Wholemeal Sandwiches: Use wholemeal bread to make small sandwiches filled with your toddler’s favourites like cheese or mashed banana.
• Brown Rice Onigiri: Shape cooked brown rice into small triangles and fill with finely chopped vegetables or a bit of flaked fish.

• Whole Wheat Veggie Dumplings: Fill whole wheat wrappers with finely chopped vegetables and tofu or minced chicken, then steam.

Depending on the type, these snacks can be prepared in advance then kept in the freezer. Then, you can simply thaw or reheat a portion when needed.

4. Crunchy Snacks

Crunchy snacks provide sensory stimulation for toddlers, making snack time fun and engaging. However, crunchy snacks don’t just mean biscuits or crackers. Here are some healthy snacks for kids and toddlers that pack a delicious crunch and lots of nutrition:

• Carrot Chips: Slice carrots thinly and bake until crispy.
• Apple Chips: Thinly slice apples and bake until crispy.
• Homemade Kale Chips: Bake kale leaves with a little olive oil until crispy.
• Crunchy Celery Sticks: Serve with peanut butter or cream cheese.

It is best to store these snacks in airtight containers or ziplock bags to keep them crunchy. If you make larger batches, we recommend portioning them before storing them in the fridge or freezer to extend their shelf life. When your toddler needs a quick snack, you can then reheat them briefly in the oven to restore their crunchiness.

5. Dairy Snack Ideas

Dairy snacks are great for providing calcium and protein, which are essential for growing bones and muscles. Here are healthy snack ideas to try:

• Yoghurt with Berries: Mix plain yoghurt with fresh berries.
• Cheese Cubes: Cut cheese into cubes for easy snacking.
• Cottage Cheese with Fruit: Combine cottage cheese with diced fruit.
• Smoothies: Blend yoghurt with fruit and freeze into popsicle moulds.
• Greek Yoghurt Dip: Mix Greek yoghurt with a little honey for a sweet dip.
• Milk Popsicles: Freeze milk in popsicle moulds for a refreshing treat.

For snacks that have to be prepared ahead of time, it is best to store them in airtight containers or in the fridge to keep them fresh. 

6. Protein-Rich Quick Bites

Protein is crucial for your little one's muscle development and overall growth. Here are some healthy protein-rich snacks that are perfect for toddlers:

• Boiled Eggs: Boil and peel eggs for a quick snack.
• Turkey Roll-Ups: Roll turkey slices with a piece of cheese.
• Hummus with Veggies: Store hummus in the fridge and pair it with carrot sticks or cucumber slices.
• Edamame: Cook and store in the fridge for a quick snack.
• Mini Meatballs: Make and freeze mini meatballs, then thaw as needed.
• Tofu Cubes: Marinate tofu cubes and bake them.
• Chicken Strips: Cook and store chicken strips in the fridge.

Store these snacks in the fridge or freezer, depending on the type, and thaw or reheat as needed. If you are preparing snacks that need to be cooked, be sure to let them cool before storing them in the fridge.

Choking Hazards For Babies and Toddlers

While many snacks are safe, certain foods can be a choking hazard for babies and toddlers if they are hard to chew or sticky. Foods like whole grapes, nuts, and chunks of meat or cheese can pose a risk. Therefore, parents must practise caution and closely watch their toddlers during snack time.

How to Address Choking Hazards

To lessen the likelihood of choking, you can modify certain snacks. For example, you can cut grapes in half, chop nuts finely, and shred or cut meat and cheese into small, manageable pieces. Additionally, you should always ensure your little one is sitting down while eating and supervise them closely.

Get Healthy Snacks and Meals from Little Barn

For parents looking for convenient and healthy snacks and meals for their toddlers, Little Barn offers a fantastic range of options. Our finger foods and meals are designed to provide the best nutrition for your little one. With ready meals for babies and convenient baby food delivery service, feeding your little one has never been easier or more fuss-free. Explore our offerings and make mealtime a delightful experience for you and your child!