Nutritious Nibbles: Creative and Healthy Snack Ideas for Your Little Ones

Ah, the mighty toddler; one day, they’re happily eating anything you put in front of them, and the next, their mouth is a no-go zone for foods they used to adore. It can be pretty frustrating for parents with fussy or finicky eaters, but it’s a common stage for kids to go through. Try not to get overwhelmed with how little they have eaten on any given day; look at it over a week, and you’ll probably feel better. And we hate to say it, but all those annoying people who say ‘your child won’t starve him/herself’ are right. Healthy and happy kids will eat when they’re hungry, and we parents usually have no say over this.

Fact: Suggested daily serves for a toddler are one serve of fruit, two-and-a-half serves of veggies, one-and-a-half serves of dairy, four serves of bread, cereals and grains, and one serve of meat.

One thing we can do to tick these off more easily is to incorporate fun, healthy snacks into their daily routine. We all know toddlers love their snacks, so why not take the pressure of mealtimes and sprinkle their nutrition throughout the day — here’s how.

Why Healthy Snacks for Kids Matter

Throw any guilt you had about your kid's snacking habits away! On average, most of them snack between 3-4 times a day. Snacks are not only useful for taming the mood of a hangry toddler, but when made with healthy ingredients, they can help provide energy, prevent overeating and add nutrients to their diet. By offering fun, healthy snacks, you’re also helping to support their bone development, immune system and cognitive function — all things essential to your child’s health and growth!

Top Healthy Snacks for Children in Australia

When choosing healthy snacks for kids, look for natural, organic, and nutrient-dense ingredients. Bub’s range of organic snacks combines fruits, veggies, and healthy grains to help you tick off the top recommended food groups. They’re easy to grab and go, and your kids will love them!

Creative and Fun Healthy Snacks for Preschoolers

Want to hear some great news? Making fun, healthy snacks for your preschooler doesn’t have to be time consuming. A lot of it comes down to colour and presentation! Here are some easy ideas to try:

Easy-to-Make Snacks for Kids at Home

Some of the best and easiest snacks for kids can be made quickly using fresh, local ingredients. In fact, some of our favourite snack ideas for fussy ideas take only minutes to prepare. Our Banana Oat Pancakes and Buba-licious Cupcakes are one-bowl wonders filled with nutritional goodness. Or try planning for the day ahead with our Plant-Burst Frozen Yoghurt, perfect for summer afternoons.

Need some no-cook options? Make ‘banana sushi’ by rolling slices in different toppings (peanut butter, desiccated coconut, hemp seeds), or chop up carrots and capsicum for veggie sticks they can dip in yoghurt or hummus.

Conclusion

In a dream world, our toddlers would gobble up every lunch and dinner we ever served them. But if that’s not the reality for you, try not to sweat it! Snacks can play just as an important part in building a nutritious and varied diet for your little one. Focus on fresh wholefoods and experiment with them! Get creative with your presentation and make fun, healthy snacks a part of your everyday routine. And remember: just because they didn’t eat it one day doesn’t mean they won’t the next. Keep trying, and you’ll soon find their favourites.