Children need to begin eating healthy at a young age in order to develop good eating habits for the rest of their lives. If your toddler is a fussy eater, don’t skimp on nutrition by offering junk food. Instead, make mealtime fun with these healthy lunch ideas for toddlers.
Mini Pizzas
Kids love pizza. Let your toddler make a healthy version of pizza for lunch. Top an English muffin with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Allow your toddler to choose toppings such as red pepper,
chopped broccoli and sliced olives to add to the pizza. Your child can be involved by spreading the sauce, sprinkling the cheese and adding the toppings himself. Broil the mini pizzas for a couple
minutes in the toaster oven until the cheese is melted. Let cool before serving.
Sandwiches
Sandwiches can be a healthy lunch for both you and your toddler. Start out with whole grain bread, pita or crackers. If your toddler isn’t a fan of lunchmeat, instead make sandwiches with cream
cheese and whole fruit jam. It’s a sweet treat that also makes a healthy meal for young kids. Serve the sandwiches with string cheese, hard boiled eggs, or chunks of fruit and raw vegetables on the
side.
Finger Foods and Dips
Young children love to dip their food. Instead of ketchup, ranch dressing and other sauces, provide your toddlers with healthy dips for fruits, vegetables and crackers.
Fruit Yogurt Dip
Purchase plain yogurt and add a spoonful of jam for flavor. Allow your child to dip bite-sized pieces of melons, oranges, kiwis, apples and other fruits into the yogurt. Be sure to peel all fruits
before letting your toddler eat them. Avoid fruits like grapes, which your toddler could choke on. You can also use plain yogurt as a dip for raw vegetables.
Hummus Dip
Cut a whole grain pita into quarters and serve with a bowl of hummus, along with chunks of raw vegetables. Your toddler will enjoy eating these nutritious and delicious foods.
Avocado Dip
Mash a half an avocado with small bit of diced tomatoes. Serve the avocado dip with strips of vegetables such as bell pepper, carrot, cucumber or even broccoli. Your toddler may also like to dip
crackers or toast into the avocado dip.
If your toddler is a very picky eater, introduce new foods in small portions. Oftentimes young children are overwhelmed by new things. Take things slowly and don’t become frustrated if your toddler
refuses to eat. Instead, just move on and re-introduce the food again at a later date.
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