Parents of toddlers often have a dilemma on their hands at meal time and snack time. There’s a hungry little person who needs something to eat. That hungry little person may regularly change what he or she will and won’t eat. Also, as the person responsible for the health of that hungry little person you have your own ideas and plans for what kinds of things you will serve. Feeding your toddler right can be a challenge.
Fortunately, summer time is here and there are quite a few nutritious foods available that most toddlers love to sink their teeth into. From fresh fruits and vegetables to frozen and grilled items, there’s just something exciting about summer foods. Try some of these ideas to add variety and nutrition to your toddler’s plate.
Home made smoothies are a great way to combine fruits like bananas and strawberries with the milk of your choice (cow, almond, soy, rice, or other) and even some nutritious add ins like protein powder and flax seed oil. Put a little ice in the blender with the ingredients and in minutes you have a cool, refreshing snack or a quick breakfast. For even more fun, take the blended smoothie and pour it into popsicle molds. Stash them in the freezer, and in a few hours you and your little one can enjoy your very own smoothie pops. I made banana ones yesterday and Dylan is hooked – he thinks that they are ice cream.
The produce department of the grocery store holds a bounty of delicious fruits and vegetables that even picky toddlers may be willing to try. Corn on the cob is sweet and it is so much fun to eat. Watermelon can be cut into wedges or bite sized cubes. Watermelon is also packed with vitamins and a ton of water to help keep them hydrated. Fresh tomatoes are a favorite of children and adults alike. Add some fresh mozzarella, a little fresh basil, some olive oil and salt and pepper for a quick salad that many toddlers will eat right up. Don’t forget the berries, too. They are bite sized, juicy, and delicious and if you live somewhere where there is a pick – your – own farm you could have a lot of fun there. Just be sure to pack plenty of wet wipes for sticky hands and faces, and wear clothes that you don’t mind getting messy.
The barbecue can also be a source of fun, nutritious flavors. Some kids will eat vegetables like eggplant, peppers, and zucchini when they are grilled even if they won’t eat them raw, steamed, or sautéed. Try turkey burgers instead of beef – they are a great source of lean protein and if you find a good recipe they can be very moist and flavorful.
What kinds of fun and flavorful foods will you enjoy with your toddler this summer?