By the time they are 6 to 8 months old, children may begin to feed themselves some of the time. Even when spoons and forks present challenges, toddlers enjoy finger foods. Choose foods kids enjoy that provide good nutrition. Baylor College of Medicine recommends you avoid giving hard foods, such as small pieces of crunchy vegetables, peanuts and popcorn to children younger than the age of 3. Experiment with cutting finger foods into interesting shapes to make them more appealing.
Cheese
Cheese sticks and cubes provide protein and calcium for children. Choose low-fat cheeses such as string cheese. Spread cheese onto crackers or celery sticks.
Vegetables
Carrot sticks, broccoli florets, celery sticks and pepper strips make healthy, low-calorie finger foods. The University of Illinois suggests you try cooked vegetables, such as carrot coins and green beans, as finger foods. Spread celery sticks with peanut butter or low-fat cheese. Serve with a yogurt based dip for extra calcium and flavor.
Fruit
Banana chunks, orange sections and whole berries make a sweet treat with lots of vitamins children need. Avoid giving round berries or large chunks of fruit to children younger than age 3. Serve apple slices with cheese or a low-fat caramel dip.
Cereals
Many cold cereals make good finger foods. Package small servings of cereals in small plastic bags for quick, portable snacks. Choose vitamin-fortified cereals that don't contain too much sugar.
Meats
Lean meats provide protein for growing children. Choose low-fat or vegetarian hot dogs, cut into small pieces for toddlers. Or roll a piece of turkey or lean ham into a roll-up for a snack.
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