Date
April 12, 2023
min
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3 Easy Snack Ideas that are Highly Nutritious

Parenting a toddler during mealtime can be a real challenge. The constant "no's" and tears can make even the most patient parents feel like throwing in the towel. But, rest assured, this is all part of their normal development and a sign of their growing independence.

It's important to remember that food is one of the few things that toddlers have control over in their environment. They relish the power and independence that comes with choosing what to eat and when to eat it. This can be stressful for parents, who also have the added pressure of ensuring their child gets the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development.

As a mother and pediatrician, I've noticed that toddlers have a special affinity for one food group in particular: fruit. They seem to have an uncanny ability to sense when anything remotely fruity is within a 5-mile radius. So, why not harness this love for fruit to our advantage? I'm here to share my top three snack ideas that not only pack a nutritious punch but have also been approved by my own little fruit-loving toddler.

Bonus: They’re super easy to make! 


Raspberry Surprise

Stuff raspberries with your child’s nut butter of choice and sprinkle some chia seeds

Supercharged Applesauce

Add shredded cucumber, a sprinkle of hemp seeds and a pinch of cinnamon to applesauce

Banana Dip

Dip part of the banana in sunflower seed butter mixed with carob powder, or let your kids do the dipping and provide them with different nut dip options! 


Take away pointers: 
  • Nut butters are a fantastic way to add fiber, protein, and healthy fats to your child’s snacks. They come in a variety of textures and flavors, so it's worth experimenting to find out which ones work best for different meals or which ones your toddler likes best.
  • Seeds are another great addition, as they are a nutrient-dense superfood that is high in protein. You can try out different seeds like chia seeds, hemp seeds, and flax seeds, or even try them in a ground-up form.
  • To add some extra veggies to snacks, you can get creative with things like cucumber, carrot, or pumpkin puree. These are easy to add to dishes and can help boost your child's nutrient intake.
  • If your child tends to say "no" a lot, try offering them a variety of options, which can help give them a sense of control and make mealtime more enjoyable for everyone.

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