Somehow kids are always hungry. You think you've fed them enough, and they get down from their high chair and walk right over to the pantry. How is that even possible?!
My little men love food. They eat three meals a day, and then usually two or three snacks in between meals. I'm telling you, it's a lot of food. I've really perfected the art of snacking for little ones though. I used to stare at the pantry and just beg for something healthy to jump out at me. Now I prepare for snacks for the week when I am meal planning and it has made it so much easier!
1. Dairy
When your little one turns one, they drink bottles less and rely more on sippy cups. It can be hard for your little to get the amount of milk they need in a day, and what I've found to help with this intake is cheese and yogurt. This is also great for those bigger kids, or ones like my son who don't drink regular milk (he loves almond milk).
Whole milk yogurt is an excellent choice for your little one starting at the age of 6 months. Our pediatrician actually recommend yogurt as one of the early foods because it contains nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamins. I am loving the newly launched Happy Family Whole Milk Yogurt cups with Vitamin D. These are perfectly sized at 1.7 ounces, and are great for little hands learning to use a spoon. These delicious and organic yogurts are made with probiotics and filled with beneficial nutrients that will nourish your little ones body.
One of my favorite little hand dairy snacks are cheese sticks, cubed cheese, and sliced cheese (either from the deli or prepackaged.) This is such an easy snack to hand off to your little ones when they get hungry!
2. Veggies
We start frozen and canned veggies early, and because of it my kids typically ask for veggies over fruit. Trust me, it shocks me too. I love offering my peas, carrots, and green beans straight from the can. For your little teething ones you can offer these frozen--you can always chop them up! If your little one doesn't like them cold, put in a bowl with a splash or two of water and put in the microwave for 45 seconds. This is such a great way to fill little bellies and get them some great nutrients!
3. Fruit
As I said before, my little ones prefer veggies over fruit. However, I tend to buy it every week in hopes they will eat it. My weekly shopping list always includes strawberries and blueberries. However if your little one loves fruit stock up on it! I'd love to purchase bananas, apples, oranges--you name it.
4. Grain
My oldest is a huge fan of popcorn, and although that is typically an evening snack--I don't like giving popcorn all the time. To get that chip taste these boys love I love offering them Snap Pea chips and Whole Grain cereal. They boys also absolutely love pretzels, so you will see them occasionally eating them for a snack before dinner.
Try these snacks and tell me what works for you! You can purchase the Happy Family Whole Milk Yogurt at a Walmart near you, and make sure to use your iBotta app to save. Remember a happy start leads to a happier future!
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