A healthy breakfast gives toddlers energy and aids in concentration levels during morning preschool. Rushing in the morning is common in many American households; however, getting a nutritious breakfast is critical to the health of young children. According to KidsHealth.org, children who eat a nutritious breakfast do better academically, have increased physical activities and have a lower body mass index. Toddlers may be finicky eaters who do not seem to eat much. Repeatedly introducing new foods and getting creative with breakfast ensures a healthy start to the day. Remember, foods need to be presented to toddlers about 10 times before your toddler will be comfortable eating them.
Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Smoothie
Create a flavorful treat for your toddler by creating a variety of breakfast smoothies. Mix together low-fat yogurt, a bit of milk and a variety of fresh fruit in a blender. Sneak in a small amount of veggies such as fresh spinach, carrots and peas for a hidden serving of vegetables. Remember to use whole milk and not low-fat milk until your child is two to three years old, advises KeepKidsHealthy.com. Blueberries, strawberries and even peaches make delicious and nutritious morning treats. Add in a bit of ground flax seed for additional fiber and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Honey is a natural sweetener to add to your toddler's smoothies. Offer small amounts of smoothie at first; remember a typical serving for a toddler is generally a quarter of the serving size of an adult. Add a colorful straw to the smoothie or allow your child to eat the mix with a spoon. Do not place thick smoothies in a todder's sippy cup.
Peanut Butter Goodies
Peanut butter is a high in protein, calories, cholesterol-free and has loads of vitamins and minerals. Add peanut butter to a variety of breakfast foods including whole-grain toast, pancakes and waffles. Peanut butter and banana is a children's favorite. Peanut butter spread on apple slices and sprinkled with raisins creates a fun breakfast food. Allow your toddler to spread peanut butter on toast himself to practice using a knife and allowing him to participate in making breakfast. Do not feed children younger than 2 years old peanut butter because it is considered a choking hazard. Slowly introduce peanut butter to children. Avoid introducing other new foods for about three days to monitor for peanut allergies.
Tortilla Wraps
Tortilla wraps make a simple food most toddlers can eat using their hands. Scrambled egg whites topped with cheese, bananas and honey or even cream cheese and strawberries are a healthy toddler favorite on the go. Drizzle honey on fresh fruit and roll up for a sweet treat. Cut the wrap into small slices for tiny toddler hands.
Member Comments