Toddlers have small tummies and get hungry between meals, so they often need snacks to keep them energized all day long. But not just any snack will do. It?s easy to reach for packaged treats at snack time?like cookies, cereal bars, muffins and chips?but these options don?t provide the nutrients that kids need for optimal growth and development. Instead, they often have too much salt and sugar. A snack should be made up of the same foods found in their daily meals, and should include both protein (such as eggs, beans, yogurt and nuts) and fibre-rich carbs (think vegetables, fruits and whole grains). Here are eight snacks that toddlers love and are easy for parents to make.
1. Parfait party

If you have yogurt and fruit on hand, you?ve got everything you need to make a parfait. Use a transparent glass or bowl so your child can marvel at the layers, and add some granola on top. Choose calcium-rich plain Greek yogurt, which has more protein and less sugar than regular yogurt. Kids will love these kiwi yogurt cups. 2. Tuna and crackers

Mash tuna with mayo and serve with toast or whole grain crackers. Use light skipjack or yellowfin tuna instead of white albacore tuna, because it?s lower in mercury. Tuna is full of healthy omega-3 fats, which are important for your toddler?s brain health.
3. Veggies and dip

Having trouble getting kids to eat veggies at meals" Try introducing them at snacks, when kids are super hungry. Pair them with a dip like hummus or tzatziki to ensure...