Healthy Toddler Snacks.

I have a lot of people ask me what are some healthy snacks they can give to their kids. I think it so important that we give our children foods that are nourishing to their bodies without all of the garbage, such as sugar, pesticides and artificial ingredients. It's a proven fact that taking your child off (or at least limiting their intake) of sugar will drastically improve their behavior. I have made a list of some healthy snacks to give to your toddler. Keep in mind that the fruits and vegetables should be organic whenever possible. I know that organic is more expensive, but like I always say, it's either invest now in healthy eating or pay later for the doctor bills. I have learned which fruits and vegetables are higher in pesticides. The ones lower in pesticides I usually don't buy organic. And when there is a sale on organic produce I stock up. Check out www.foodnew.org for more info on buying organic produce.

Here are some ideas:

Smoothies - In a blender, mix 1-2 cups of liquid, such as milk or juice, then add frozen fruit. You can also add yogurt.

Homemade popsicles - Use your mixture from the smoothies and pour into popsicle molds. Mixing apple juice and yogurt make really yummy popsicles.

Mozzarella sticks - Organic is best.

Apple slices dipped in peanut butter (without added sugar).

Celery with peanut butter spread on it and raisins on top.

Yogurt. Watch the sugar grams in yogurt. It is usually high. BUT, do not give sugar-free because of the added artificial sugars.

Pretzels

Cheese and crackers. Make sure the crackers do not have hydrogenated oils.

Frozen grapes make a wonderful snack/treat.

For more information and ideas on feeding babies and toddlers healthy, homemade food, I highly recommend the book, "Mommy Made and Daddy Too" by David and Martha Kimmel. I couldn't have lived without this book when my daughter started eating solids. It has great tasting and easy recipes that are good for your child.

I hope this helps in giving you ideas for healthy snacks. The more you stay away from the prepackaged, processed stuff the better! Remember, you are setting the stage for how your kids will eat when they are older. If you start at a very early age giving them lots of fruits and veggies and healthy, whole foods, you won't have a battle on your hands trying to get them to eat like this later on.