Balanced Meals and Snacks for Toddlers

Your toddler is growing and developing at an incredible rate, so he needs the right combination of calories and nutrients to help keep him going. ~BabyCentre

Let’s start with what young children need for a balanced diet. BBC Good Food has the list…

Protein

Proteins are essential for a number of important functions including growth, brain development and healthy bones. Of the 22 amino acids – or building blocks that make proteins, children need to get 10 ‘essential amino acids’ from their food.

Fruit and Vegetables

Aiming for five portions of fruit and vegetables is a good starting point for children. Easy tips for keeping on track could be as simple as keeping a bag of frozen vegetables in the freezer or chopping up a piece of fresh fruit for dessert.

Carbohydrates

Children need a source of carbohydrate in each meal. However, young children under 13 months may struggle to digest wholegrain varieties of carbohydrates, and too much fibre can compromise the absorption of important minerals such as calcium and iron.

Dairy and Calcium

Children gain a lot of nourishment from dairy foods such as milk, yogurt and cheese. These foods can provide the body with easily absorbed calcium as well as vitamins A and B12, protein and other vitamins and minerals.

The Right Fats

While children need some fat to grow and develop, too much of any sort of fat is not recommended. Butter, spreads and oils contribute to the taste, texture and enjoyment of the diet. They are important as concentrated sources of energy for young children who are growing rapidly.

For complete details, plus food suggestions, visit: Healthy Eating What Young Children Need, Good Food

Also, check out: 15 Kid and Toddler Superfoods via Parenting.com

Now we’re rounding up great posts on ideas. Healthy Snacks for Toddlers! Click the pictures for the full lists and don’t forget to bookmark or pin for future reference!

55+ Healthy Toddler Snacks via IntentionalByGrace