List of Easy Foods to Feed Toddlers

According to Dr. William Sears, Associate Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of California, children from one to three years of age gain weight slowly and tend to eat less during meals. In order to achieve a healthy daily intake of essential nutrients, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends encouraging toddlers to eat by naming foods, cutting them into shapes and introducing new food in small portions. Some foods are easier for toddlers to manage than others, but it isn't necessary to compromise healthfulness for convenience.

  1. Yogurt

    • According to Jo Ann Tatum Hattner, MPH, RD, probiotics found in yogurt help increase a child's immune system, reduce disease-causing bacteria, prevent allergies,and treat or reduce incidences of diarrhea. Yogurt is also a rich source of calcium, protein and riboflavin, nutrients which help build lean body mass, strengthen bones, and enhance energy levels. The USDA Food Pyramid for children two to three years old recommends two cups of milk products daily. For a healthy snack, offer yogurt to toddlers accompanied by a serving of fresh fruit.

    Whole Grain Cereal

    • According to Kids Health of Nemours, a non-profit organization advocating children's health, foods such as fortified whole grain cereals are an excellent source of iron, the nutrient necessary for red blood cell production. A bowl of whole grain cereal with low-fat milk also gives toddlers dietary fiber, calcium and other essential vitamins and minerals. For a healthy breakfast, parents can serve toddlers enriched whole grain cereals with a side serving of fruit.

    Fruits

    • According to the American Diabetic Association, toddlers should eat one cup of fruit a day, whether frozen, fresh or dried. You can serve small portions of apple slices, melon balls or orange wedges plain or blended into a smoothie with a cup of low-fat milk or yogurt, or pureed and frozen to make popsicles. Penny Warner, author of Healthy Treats and Super Snacks for Kids, recommends freezing sliced bananas coated in cereal for a quick, cool, energy-rich treat.

    Open-Face Sandwiches

    • Sandwiches allow for a combination of items from the basic food groups. The USDA Food Pyramid website, MyPyramid.gov, recommends presenting food to toddlers in a positive manner by letting them make open-face sandwiches using healthy ingredients. The website also gives healthy ideas for sandwiches, such as English Muffin Pizzas (low-fat cheese, tomato sauce and vegetables) and Smiley Sandwiches (peanut butter, apple slices and raisins) using whole grain breads.

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