Healthy children aged 1 to 3 years need about 0.55 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily, according to the Baylor College of Medicine. For example, a 29-pound toddler requires approximately 16 grams of protein each day. Flavorful, nutritious and protein-rich foods most appropriate for toddlers include meats, eggs, cheese, legumes and yogurt products.
Meat, Poultry and Fish
Excellent food sources of high-quality protein include beef, such as steak and ground sirloin; poultry products, such as chicken and turkey breast; pork; and fish. For toddlers, meats should be soft, moist and cut into small pieces. A 1-ounce serving of meat, poultry or fish is roughly the size of a pair of dice and provides 7 grams of protein, meeting about 50 percent of the Recommended Daily Value, or DV, for protein.
Eggs and Cheese
Eggs and cheese are toddler-friendly, protein-rich foods. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyPyramid, one large egg is the equivalent of 1 ounce of meat and provides, on average, 7 to 8 grams of protein. Cheese makes a great high-protein, between-meal snack. On average, cheeses, such as Swiss, Colby and cheddar, provide 100 to 115 calories per ounce and 7 grams of protein.
Legumes
Legumes, such as starchy beans, are a healthy food choice because they are rich in protein and dietary fiber and are virtually fat-free. For example, a 1/2-cup serving of either cooked pinto or black beans provides 8 grams protein and only 1 gram fat. Cooked red kidney beans are slightly higher in protein; a 1/2-cup serving offers 9 grams protein and no fat.
Prepare a tasty lentil mash dip by combining 1/3 cup cooked lentils, 1/4 cup cottage cheese, 2/3 cup mashed potatoes and 1 tbsp. chopped, fresh parsley in a food processor. Process until smooth and serve with raw cucumber sticks for your toddler to dip.
Kefir
Kefir, a fermented milk beverage that is a rich source of high-quality protein, provides many nutritional benefits. Kefir, like yogurt, contains beneficial active live cultures that promote healthy bacterial flora in the intestines and may enhance immune-system function. Kefir is high in bone-building calcium and counts as a milk serving. According to Leslie Beck, R.D., yogurt drinks--such as kefir--are well-liked by the pickiest eaters, like toddlers. One serving of low-fat, strawberry-flavored kefir provides 130 calories, 10.5 grams protein and only 3 grams fat.
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