Mealtimes can be a little challenging when your toddler starts to realise he can refuse to eat certain foods! And we’ve all been there- weaning starts well, baby eats a variety of foods, and then BAM! All of a sudden the lips clamp tight and the bowl ends up on the floor! But don’t panic because this is totally normal. Toddlers are supposed to try to exert their power now and then, and mealtimes are the ultimate time to do this. So how do you make sure that the foods your toddler does eat are healthy and nutritious? It’s worth knowing which foods to pursue too, so here is our top ten list of super foods for toddlers. You might want to get a little creative when it comes to serving these!
Eggs
There are so many ways to use eggs, and the great news is that they are a wonderful source of protein and vitamin D. A plate of scrambled eggs is not only delicious but will keep your toddler full for longer, so they’re definitely top of our super foods list! Eggs are so versatile too- you can make omelettes, muffins, boiled eggs and soldiers… be as creative as you can!
Oats
Another super food for toddlers. Oats are also versatile because they can be served as porridge for breakfast, or you can bake them into tasty fruity snack bars instead. What makes oats so super? They provide a slow stream of energy so that your toddler can keep going for longer. And they’re relatively cheap too, so they won’t break the bank.
Fruit
Luckily, most toddlers enjoy the sweet taste of most fruit so make the most of it! Summer months are great for letting them snack on handfuls of berries, and apple wedges make a great after dinner treat too. Remember if you serve grapes they must be cut into pieces to avoid the risk of choking.
Blueberries
Blueberries are most definitely superfoods and they taste delicious too! Stir them into porridge in the morning, pop them into a fruity omelette or simply present them as a snack. I’ve yet to meet a toddler who doesn’t love them!
Salmon
It might be a little more tricky getting your toddler to eat salmon, but its worth a try because its packed with heart healthy omega 3s and these are known to boost brain development. Serve it with foods that you know your toddler likes, or make your own fish fingers.
Greek yogurt
Another great source of protein, yet a food that toddlers don’t often get to try. Add some fresh fruit, or stir in some cocoa powder with maple syrup for something a little more special. Greek yogurt is lower in sugar than most yogurts too.
Avocado
A great source of fibre, avocado is filled with heart healthy monounsaturated fats- so a great addition to your toddler’s diet. Mash them and spread them on toast, use in place of mayonnaise or even puree down for an indulgent chocolate pudding.
Sweet Potatoes
So much more tasty than white potatoes, and filled with fibre, potassium and vitamin A! Chop into fries, drizzle with olive oil and bake in the oven. Delicious!
Cinnamon
Who doesn’t love baked apples sprinkled with cinnamon! This is a superfood with a difference because it has strong antiviral properties that mean it can help to defend against coughs and colds. And it tastes delicious sprinkled over porridge or onto apple slices.
Grapes
Grapes are like sweeties for toddlers! Red grapes especially are great to serve because they’re filled with antioxidants and polyphonyois. Again, make sure they’re cut up into small pieces for toddlers and young children.