As a parent of three children under five, mornings are incredibly busy—rushing through breakfast, managing my assembly line of bento boxes, organizing backpacks, and then juggling the chaos of carpool. But for many toddlers, breakfast is the highlight of their day. It also happens to be the meal where they’re generally in high spirits and, as far as my kids go, it’s the one meal where I know they’ll eat their fill. To maintain my composure and ensure that I’ve got enough energy to tackle the morning frenzy, I’ve streamlined the process by relying on a few breakfast ideas for toddlers that are not only nutritious and easy but also reliable favorites for my kids.
Keep your kiddos excited about their first meal of the day by rotating through these tot-approved options each month. You can batch-cook some of them in advance for a speedy microwave reheat in the morning, and I also find it helpful to write them down and pin them to my fridge to minimize my decision fatigue at breakfast. To ensure that everyone is on the same page and minimize the risk of any early a.m. revolts, get your toddlers involved by making a breakfast schedule on your calendar.
Here are 13 toddler-friendly breakfast ideas that are not only nutritious but also quick and effortless to prepare.
1. French toast
Who doesn’t love bread soaked in a mixture of milk, vanilla, and eggs, crisping up to perfection with a sizzle of oil? This breakfast is a well-balanced meal with carbs, protein, and fat in each delicious bite. Opt for whole grain bread with an extra fiber kick and avocado oil for a healthy fry. For younger kiddos requiring an extra dose of fat, whole milk is the way to go.
You can also prepare French toast in advance since it’s freezer-friendly. Another option is to whip up a French toast casserole. Cube the bread and spread it out in a baking dish. Pour the mixture over it instead of the traditional dredging process. Bake it until it’s crispy on the outside and fully cooked on the inside.
2. Greek yogurt parfaits
Give your toddler a dose of independence by letting them make their own breakfast parfait using layers of Greek yogurt, whole-grain cereal, fresh or freeze-dried fruit, and chia or hemp seeds. Instead of going for a flavored yogurt with heaps of added sugar, choose a plain, unsweetened Greek variety. The layers themselves bring plenty of flavor and sweetness, but if your kiddo is craving more, mix in some honey or maple syrup—this way, you’re in control of just how sweet it gets.
3. Banana pancakes
Here’s the easiest recipe ever, using just three ingredients: banana, eggs, and flour. Simply mash up your bananas, mix in some eggs, and add enough flour for the perfect batter texture. If you want to jazz up your pancakes, toss in some berries, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and ground flaxseeds, or mix in creamy nut butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Bonus: you can freeze any extras to pull out when cravings strike.
Looking for a way to add veggies to your breakfast routine? Look no further these delicious green muffins, which have become a regular favorite in our home. Made with spinach for a vibrant green hue, they’re crafted using whole-wheat flour and coconut oil—and can easily be sold as “Hulk muffins.” Plus, I simplify the preparation process by tossing all the ingredients into the blender for effortless prep and cleanup.
5. Avocado toast
We love a good avocado toast for breakfast, using a thick slice of whole grain or sourdough bread. If you want to get creative, sprinkle with some everything-but-the-bagel seasoning, or top it off with a scrambled egg for an additional protein boost.
6. Egg-in-a-hole
Talk about a fun breakfast! When I serve this dish it’s always greeted by squeals of delight, which you know is a big win where toddler meals are concerned. The recipe is as simple as cutting a hole in the middle of a piece of bread and placing it in a buttered frying pan. Crack an egg into the center of the hole, then flip it back and forth until the egg is perfectly cooked all the way through.
7. Chia pudding
Some kids can’t get enough of the gooey, soft texture of chia pudding. We prefer making it with whole milk or coconut milk and flavoring it with homemade blueberry compote or sliced bananas for an extra fruity touch. If you find yourself with leftovers and you’ve got a texture-loving kid, use the pudding as additional layers in your Greek yogurt parfaits.
8. Overnight oats
Just like when you make traditional oatmeal, combine rolled oats and your milk of choice, but throw it into a jar. Add a dash of vanilla, a splash of maple syrup, and Greek yogurt for added texture and protein. Mix in chia seeds and hemp seeds for an extra boost of omega-3s, then refrigerate overnight. The next morning, breakfast is ready to enjoy without any additional prep!
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9. Fruity smoothies
For a convenient on-the-go breakfast, smoothies are a speedy option perfect for sipping during a hectic morning commute to school. Our preferred blend mixes frozen fruit, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, fresh spinach leaves, and a splash of whole milk. If you find yourself with extra time in the morning, transform your smoothie into a smoothie bowl and elevate it with toppings like whole-grain cereal or muesli.
10. Pumpkin bread
How heavenly is a slice of warm pumpkin bread with a thick slather of butter? Your kids will probably agree. Plus, pumpkin offers loads of fiber and essential vitamins, transforming breakfast into a nutritional powerhouse. We love this recipe, not only because it’s incredibly moist but also because it pairs exceptionally well with your morning cup of coffee (trust me, I’ve tested the theory many times).
11. Whole-grain freezer waffles
Yup, we love healthy packaged breakfast options that are packed with fiber from whole grains and can be conveniently stored in the freezer. When perusing the grocery aisles, look for waffles with at least 3 grams of fiber and minimal added sugar and salt. Bonus points if it has some protein. My kids love dipping waffle spears in peanut butter, applesauce, or yogurt.
12. Baked Oatmeal
While it may sound complicated, it’s surprisingly easy—just prepare oatmeal as usual but bake it in the oven instead of on the stove. Add a touch of coconut oil for moisture and incorporate mix-ins like raisins, blueberries, or thinly sliced apples. Bake a batch or two, then stash them in the freezer for later use (your future self will thank you!).
13. Breakfast cookies
I prepare these regularly, making them a weekly kid-approved go-to. Combine rolled oats with mashed banana, creamy peanut butter, and melted coconut oil. Shape the mixture into cookies and bake for 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. For a flavor variation, consider adding chocolate chips or coconut shreds.
These healthy Trader Joe’s products top our list for the new year
Whether you’re looking for a way to scale back on the junk, add some smarter snacks, or kick-start healthy habits in general, there are plenty of helpful options at your favorite neighborhood market. Fill up your cart in the fruit and veggie section and then add a few of our favorite healthy Trader Joe’s products to have at the ready. If you need some meal-prep help, check out our favorite Trader Joe’s meals you can make in 15 minutes or less.
Healthy Trader Joe’s Breakfast Products
Egg Wraps
Kate Loweth
We love these wraps as a breakfast burrito tortilla alternative or topped with fruit for a sweet crepe breakfast. Kids won't be able to tell the difference, we promise! Bonus: there's 4g of protein in each wrap.
While you have to be careful when consuming granola since it’s normally high in sugar and fat, this peanut butter protein granola has 11 grams of protein per serving! Enjoy in small amounts atop yogurt for that extra protein serving your body is craving.
When it comes to a dense, nutritious breakfast, you can never go wrong with oatmeal. It packs a healthy portion of carbs and fiber, is rich in antioxidants, and can help lower your cholesterol and improve blood sugar control. Plus, it’s super tasty in homemade protein bars and in a smoothie, too!
You love these little bites from Starbucks and now you can have them every day of the week at home. They come in a cheese, spinach, and kale flavor as well as bacon and cheese. Pop them in the microwave and serve with a dollop of salsa.
Raisin Walnut Apple Bars
We love these little bars as they are packed with protein (10g per bar!) but they have the texture of a roll. Easy to eat on the go, these bars are packed with raisins, walnuts, and apples for a satisfying breakfast option.
Healthy Trader Joe’s Snacks
Papdums
These lentil and chickpea crisps will be your new favorite snacks. One warning: You might just eat the whole bag in one sitting. They have a lovely light Indian flavor with the texture of Pringles. Great served with your favorite hummus.
ABC Bars
We love these for kids' lunches as they have 4g of protein and taste great. The chocolatey dough enrobes the almond butter center and feels like a treat.
Roasted Seaweed Snack
Crunchy, salty, and easy to pack in your kid's lunch. We love this seaweed snack to top ramen bowls.
These dried cranberries are perfect for snacking and are fortified with cranberry seed oil. They have 200mg of omega-3’s per serving and would be super tasty on a salad, in oatmeal, or enjoyed by the handful.
Veggie & Flax Seed Corn Tortilla Chips
You get the whole package with this bag of chips. Carrot, tomato, spinach, garlic, red beet, and onion plus lots of omega-3's are all found in this inexpensive and flavorful snack.
Acai is a superfood! These pre-made puree packets are loaded with antioxidants and are low in sugar (fruit is usually high in natural sugars). Perfect for that morning smoothie bowl.
Whole Flax Seed
Flax seed is easy to add to your yogurt, homemade protein bars, and smoothies for a nice, nutty taste and texture. It's rich in omega-3s, fiber, and lignans, which block the effects of estrogen and could potentially help reduce the risk of hormone-associated cancers, such as breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate.
Organic Chia Seed
Chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids (that help raise your "good cholesterol"), fiber, antioxidants, iron, and calcium. They also help with reducing inflammation and weight loss and are easy to make into overnight chia seed pudding.
Healthy Trader Joe’s Beverages
Kefir & Cultured Milk
This kefir and cultured milk combo has 12 live and active cultures, packs a lot of protein, and is full of vitamin D. Kefir is a powerful probiotic, can improve bone health, and can aid with digestive problems.
Super Antioxidant Green Tea
Green tea is a must for healthy living: It helps regulate glucose levels, reduces bad cholesterol and high blood pressure, and might even help with aging and wrinkles.
Made with just coconut water, sap, and sea salt, Organic Coconut Aminos Seasoning Sauce is the perfect swap for sodium-laden soy sauce. The gluten-free, kosher sauce contains no soy, but 13 amino acids that make this product a must for stir-fries, fried rice, veggies, and more.
Add flavor without all the carbs a tasty bagel usually brings when you use TJ’s coveted Everything but the Bagel Seasoning. The blend is made with poppy seeds, minced garlic and onion, sea salt flakes, and sesame seeds and is a great addition to anything! Try on hardboiled eggs, avo toast, and even your fave dinners.
Kerrygold Grass-Fed Butter
Kerrygold grass-fed butter is not only better for baking, but it also possesses properties that are anti-inflammatory and makes for an excellent Vitamin A source.
Sunflower Seed Butter
Sunflower butter is not only an alternative to peanuts, but is also an excellent source of protein, vitamin E, magnesium, and lots of other healthy fats. It's also great for kiddos who attend schools with a "no nut policy."
Healthy Trader Joe’s Lunch and Dinner Products
All-Natural Chicken Breasts
These pre-cooked chicken breasts are deliciously flavorful and a great option to have on hand for quesadillas, sandwiches, salads, or soups. Each chicken breast is individually wrapped. You can find these in the deli section.
Beef Bulgogi
This frozen product is quickly topping our list of go-to items to have on hand when dinner needs to come together fast. Add some of the garlicky cabbage and serve this with rice for a filling meal. There's also a meatless option if that's your jam.
Stir-Fried Garlicky Cabbage
Inspired by the Thai dish Galam Plee Pad Nam Pla, this simple stir-fry of cabbage, a whole lot of garlic, and fish sauce makes a tasty addition to your meal whether you have it as a side or mix it in with your stir-fry.
Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup
One of the most popular healthy Trader Joe's products, this soup is all the rage these days as a serving will really fill you up with a whopping 16g of protein. Plus, it's pretty delicious.
Spicy Mexican-Style Riced Cauliflower
This little packet really packs a flavor punch and is a great addition to taco night. It has around 200 calories in the whole bag, which makes it an easy add-on to your weekly menu plan.
Harvest Grains Blend
This hearty and healthy blend packs lots of protein and fiber. It's made up of orzo, garbanzo beans, red quinoa, and couscous that can easily be paired with meat to make a full meal.
Frozen Brown Rice & Rice Medley
Brown rice far surpasses its white rice cousin when it comes to nutritional value, but it takes forever to cook. This box of three frozen brown rice packets makes eating healthy a cinch––microwave for three minutes and enjoy perfectly cooked rice (and no rice cooker cleanup!). Try the Rice Medley when you want a little more texture.
Organic & Sprouted TriColor Quinoa
Quinoa is referred to as a superfood and is higher in fiber than most other grains. It also has tons of protein, is low on the glycemic index, and is gluten-free.
Colorful Carrot Coins
We love these as a potato alternative to that pork roast you plan to serve for dinner. Pop them in the air fryer to get the perfect blend of soft inside and crunchy outside.
Lentils are high in fiber and therefore lower your cholesterol and chances of heart disease. Toss into a soup and enjoy increased energy, stabilized blood sugar, and a healthy gut.
Riced Cauliflower Bowl
Cut the carbs by substituting cauliflower "rice" for its white counterpart. When you use this easy, pre-made version from Trader Joe's, you'll get all the benefits of cauliflower, like tons of fiber, cancer-fighting properties, improved blood pressure and kidney function, and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
After a great massage, you practically feel like you’re floating out of the treatment room, and that calmness and tension relief lingers (at least until you get home and someone starts melting down). But adults aren’t the only ones who benefit from a good rubdown. Baby massage has long been believed to be a powerful and naturally therapeutic practice, dating back centuries to the Qing dynasty. Today, the method has come a long way. While many parents understand that massage can help babies relax, fewer know that it can be a natural aid for many of the most obsessed-about baby ailments, like teething and gas, and offers amazing therapeutic benefits including brain, emotional, social, and neural development.
And that’s not all! A 2023 study in the journal PLOS One found that baby massage has benefits for moms, too. In a sample of 521 women with postnatal depression symptoms like sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion, those who massaged their babies showed significantly reduced symptoms compared with those who stuck to a more typical routine. So it’s truly a win-win.
As with any new treatment, you can discuss starting a baby massage routine with your pediatrician. Offer massages in a warm room that’s cozy for you both, especially if your babe is enjoying some naked time during their massage, and lay your little on a soft towel. Always follow your baby’s cues, because we all know they’ll be the first to tell you if they don’t like a particular stroke or if it’s time to call it a day. Once you’re ready to give it a try, here are a few ways to use gentle massage to help your baby through tough times.
When Your Baby Won’t Sleep
Helping baby sleep independently and through the night takes time and patience, and massage is a wonderful way to relax them and potentially create a deeper, longer sleep cycle. The act of massaging your baby triggers serotonin production, which allows their body and mind to settle in for the night. And it’s not just anecdotal evidence. More and more studies have linked baby massage with improved sleep. Tiffany Field, Ph.D. and director of the Touch Research Institute, found that babies who received a massage from their parents for 15 minutes prior to their bedtime showed a decrease in sleep onset issues and had better quality sleep after one month. In addition, they were more alert and calm throughout their waking hours. This was in comparison to babies who were just read a bedtime story before going to bed.
Baby Massage Tips: Combine massage with a warm baby bath as a daily nighttime ritual. Dim the lights, turn on some relaxing music, and place baby on a soft towel, then do a full-body massage using edible-grade, organic oils such as coconut, sesame, jojoba, or avocado oil. Try to always massage in the same order your little knows what to expect since they love predictable routines so much. After a week your baby will hopefully learn to associate sleep with this calming nighttime routine.
When Your Baby Has Gas or Is Constipated
Baby constipation, colic, reflux, and gas can pose some of the biggest challenges for new parents since an infant’s digestive tract is still very immature. This is why so many of us practically become professional poop inspectors during the newborn stage and completely obsess over how to help our babe’s make as many ground-shaking toots as possible. Expelling gas and poop can be more difficult for some infants, which is why baby massage can be so helpful for kickstarting their digestion. In one study of children with chronic constipation, parents were asked to provide abdominal massage for 20 minutes per day for a month. The results? Reduced constipation symptoms in 88% of patients, reduced laxative medication use in 58%, and an improved diet for 41%.
Baby Massage Tips: Tummy massage and foot reflexology are believed to help alleviate the pressure on the bowel. Once you’ve discussed them with your doctor and are ready to start, they’re very easy to master. The trick is to do these massages and stretches proactively and daily so that baby’s digestion is running at full speed consistently. Start by paddling their tummy with your hands, moving down from the top of the belly to the pelvis. Next, use your fingertips to make circles in a clockwise motion. You can also gently move their hips from side to side and bicycle their legs to help their stomach muscles and intestines move more efficiently. Just make sure to wait 30-40 minutes after feeding. For the feet, concentrate on the center of the foot below the pad and apply medium-pressure strokes with your fingers to help the large and small intestines do their thing.
When Your Baby Is Teething
Teething (and the drooling and sleep disruptions that go with it) is a painful stage that all parents and babies will have to deal with. Teething can start anywhere from 3 months of age and will come and go through the first 2 years of life. While the many remedies for teething include cold washcloths, over-the-counter medicine, and teethers, teething pain can be naturally alleviated with a simple facial massage that will help babies reduce inflammation in their gums.
Baby Massage Tips: Babies hold a lot of tension in their faces and jaws during teething. To help them relax and reduce teething-related inflammation, make small circles with your fingertips along baby’s face, jaw, and gums. You can also try giving them a gum massage. With clean hands, use your forefinger to gently rub your baby’s gums. You shouldn’t face too much resistance—after all, babies rarely meet an object they don’t want to put in their mouths. But if they do resist, respect their wishes and try again later.
When Your Baby Has a Cold & Is Congested
There’s no worse feeling than watching your baby struggle with a cold. Massage can be ideal for these times because it may help your little one expel some of that pesky phlegm, reduce sinus congestion, and relieve coughs naturally. Some studies have shown some immunity benefits of regular massage, though more research is needed.
Baby Massage Tips: A gentle facial massage can help loosen and remove some of the congestion clogging your little one’s sinuses. Use two fingers to gently rub down the area next to the bridge of baby’s nose. You can also use your fingers to gently stroke around baby’s eyes and right below their eyebrows. Chest massage can also help relieve congestion. When massaging the chest, start with the “open book” stroke holding both hands at the center of the chest and stroke out as if you are opening the pages of a book. You can also rub from shoulder to opposite side of chest, which is called the “butterfly” stroke.
Elina Furman is the Founder & CEO of Kahlmi, the first baby massage tool and educational platform to help promote the mission of baby massage. As a certified infant massage instructor and baby product expert, she is excited to spread awareness of the scientific evidence-based benefits of baby/child massage.
Part sweet and part savory, this stir-fry dish is a cinch to make and will please any kid’s picky palate
Inspired by her husband’s love of chicken wings, Kari of GI 365 created this Honey Garlic Chicken stir-fry recipe that features the same sweet and savory flavors of her hubby’s favorite dish. Your kids will love the flavor combination, and you’ll love that making this healthy meal only takes 30 minutes. It’s a win-win.
Serves 4
Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken:
Sauce:
⅓ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
1 Tablespoon organic cornstarch
⅓ cup honey
Stir-Fry:
1 medium onion, diced ½”
1½ pounds broccoli, stems peeled
1 pound chicken thighs, cut into 1″ cubes
2 Tablespoons avocado oil, (or olive oil)
¼ cup water
3 cloves garlic, minced
Method:
1. Start by mixing the soy sauce and cornstarch together until the cornstarch dissolves. Add the honey to the soy sauce mixture, but you don’t need to combine them (this happens in the pan).
2. Thinly slice the peeled broccoli stems, cut the florets into 1″ pieces, and set the broccoli aside with the onion.
3. Preheat a large skillet over high heat.
4. When the pan is almost smoking, add 1 Tablespoon of avocado oil and the chicken cubes. Sauté for about 2 minutes to brown before turning the chicken cubes, and cooking until golden brown and done in the center. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1 Tablespoon of avocado oil to the pan. Add the onion and broccoli, and cook stirring every 30 seconds for 3-5 minutes or until the onions begin to soften and the broccoli turns bright green but is still crisp.
6. Add the ¼ cup of water to the pan, cover with a lid, and simmer for 3 minutes until the water has mostly evaporated and the broccoli is just tender.
7. Add the sautéed chicken, minced garlic, and the sauce into the skillet.
8. Stir to incorporate the honey, and simmer for 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce. Serve immediately.
Lettuce buns are all the rave nowadays—and a sneaky approach to adding more greens to your family’s diet while also cutting back on the carbs. With Nathan’s Famous Skinless® Beef Franks as the star of the dish, dress it up with sizzling bacon, fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes and crisp lettuce leaves.
Check out the recipe below from Nathan’s Famous® to create this healthy spin-off to plain old hot dogs in buns.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Wrap bacon tightly around each hot dog and spread evenly on prepared baking sheet. Bake 15 minutes or until bacon is crispy.
Meanwhile, mix together mayonnaise, garlic, parsley and chives until combined.
Set bacon-wrapped hot dogs onto lettuce leaves. Drizzle with herbed mayonnaise and top with tomatoes and red onion.
Tips to Stretch Your Dollar
Who said hot dogs are only for lunch or dinner? Add a new dish to your breakfast menu with your left over hot dogs by creating huevos con salchichas (which stands for eggs with sausage—or hot dogs—in Spanish). Simply create a steamy batch of fluffy, scrambled eggs then toss in cubed chunks of Nathan’s Famous® Skinless Beef Franks. Serve with a side of toast and sliced avocadoes for a fully balanced breakfast.
In need of more inspiration for your next family meal? Smithfield Foods’ large portfolio of products, including Smithfield® Bacon, Nathan’s Famous® Beef Franks and Eckrich® Smoked Sausage, can meet your household’s needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snack time.
Beginning eaters can be a picky bunch, but you and your child will love these new and nutritious foods and drinks designed specifically for babies and toddlers. Packed with healthy ingredients (hello, pea protein, grass-fed bison and bok choy) and available in delicious flavor combinations and kid-friendly packaging (puffs! pouches! smoothie melts! teething wafers!), they’re a win-win. Read on for your baby’s new favorites!
We love Cerebelly for their nutrient-rich, organic kid snacks, and the new bone broth pouches have our mouths watering. Available in three flavors (butternut squash chicken broth with thyme; carrot beef bone broth with rosemary; sweet potato pinto bean with cumin), they're packed with kid-friendly flavors and brain-supporting nutrients including lutein, DHA and protein. Created for kids 11 months and up.
This Australian-owned snack brand makes nutritious, wholesome organic foods for babies and toddlers with no artificial flavors, colors or additives. The line is broken down into two ranges: The Baby Bellies range features snacks for kids 7+ months and 10+ months in kid-friendly flavors and age-appropriate shapes. The Little Bellies range is for kids 12+ months and features animal crackers and tomato sticks. The snacks dissolve so they're easy for littles to eat, and the shapes and sizes are developmentally appropriate so kids can grip them and feed themselves.
Looking for a nutritious, delicious and easy way to prepare breakfast foods for your babe? Try the apple, carrot and cinnamon muffin mix from Happy Family Organics, or the pancake & waffle mix. You'll whip these up in five minutes flat, so they're perfect for busy mornings or days you want to focus on family time rather than cooking. Both organic, non-GMO mixes are made with 100% whole grains, iron and no added sugar. You only need to add water to prepare the pancake & waffle mix; add water and your child's favorite puree to the muffin mix.
You may know Holle from the brand's baby formula, but this Swiss company has recently launched nutritious fruit and veggie pouches in six flavors, including Veggie Bunny, made with carrot, sweet potatoes and peas. They're not only made with organic ingredients, the products carry the Demeter seal, which means the products meet the highest international standards for holistic, ecological and ethical practices in organic farming.
Available at holleusa.com, $19.99 for a box of six pouches.
Happy Baby Savory Blends from Happy Family Organics
Get your baby's veggies in with these new pouches from Happy Family Organics. Each flavor contains 1.5 servings of organic vegetables in each pouch, more than other leading brands. The veggies are blended with healthy fats, herbs and spices for delicious combinations that expand your child's palate. Each flavor sounds like it came straight off a restaurant menu: Squash, Chickpeas & Spinach with Avocado Oil + Sage; Broccoli & Carrots with Olive Oil + Garlic; Sweet Potatoes with Olive Oil + Rosemary; Purple Carrot & Cauliflower with Avocado Oil + Oregano.
When a snack attack hits, you'll feel good about giving your child these nutrient-rich puffs. They have a slight crunch and chewy texture that kids like, and you'll like that they contain healthy veggies, as well as bone broth for protein and organic olive oil for healthy fats. The three savory flavors are: Broccoli & Spinach Grain free Puffs with Bone Broth, Carrot & Beet Grain Free Puffs with Olive Oil, and Tomato & Mushroom Grain Free Puffs with Bone Broth. These puffs are non-GMO, USDA Organic certified and Certified Gluten-Free.
Available at myserenitykids.com, $32.95 for a six-pack of 1.5-ounce containers.
Smoothie-Inspired Veggie & Fruit Pouches from Cerebelly
What could be more enticing than a smoothie-inspired puree with Peppa and George Pig on the label? How about the fact that these veggie & fruit pouches are packed with brain-supporting nutrients such as iron, Vitamin B6 and selenium. Available in three mouthwatering flavors (purple carrot blueberry, sweet potato peach, and celery apple kiwi), the Cerebelly x Peppa Pig pouches are sure to be a hit at snack time. The company donates a portion of each product to Baby2Baby to support children in need.
With just four healthy ingredients, these melty puffs from Littlemore Organics are the perfect snack to pop in your diaper bag or serve at home. Available in two savory flavors, sunflower butter and tomato, they contain no added sugar or salt; no corn, rice or gluten; and no peanuts or tree nuts. The line was created by two Boston-based mom friends, one a pediatrician, who set out to develop a packaged snack that was tasty, nutritious and convenient to bring with you. For babies 6 months and up who have started on solids.
Yogurt smoothie melts with no added sugar? Yes, please! These toddler favorites get their sweetness from organic fruits and veggies, contain no preservatives, and come in a shape that makes it easy for kids to grasp and chew. Available in plant-based yogurt (made with coconut milk) and cow's milk yogurt varieties, these melt-in-your-mouth snacks come in three yummy flavors: Beets 'n' Berries, Carrot Raspberry and Mango Carrots. The resealable bag means you can pop them in your bag for outings. They're recommended for kids 8 months to 4 years.
Treat your Gerber baby to delicious, nutritious organic foods delivered right to your door with these subscription box meals created by registered dieticians. The box contents change each month to add variety to your child's diet and respond to their nutritional needs and developmental milestones. Each box is filled with USDA Certified Organic cereals, purees, pouches or snacks.
Available at gerber.com, starting at $69.99 per box/month (under $2 per serving).
Want to feed your baby healthy foods that broaden their palate? Try these bone-broth toddler purees from Serenity Kids. Packed with nutrients that help strengthen bones and support digestion and immunity, these toddler puree pouches come in flavorful varieties with no added sugars or preservatives: Turkey Bolognese, Beef Pot Roast and Turmeric Chicken. All are made with pasture-raised meat from small American regenerative family farms, organic bone broth and Certified USDA Organic vegetables and herbs. They're also free of ingredients that contain antibiotics, added hormones, pesticides, fillers, GMOs or major allergens.
Available at serenitykids.com, $29.95/6 pouches of each flavor; $32.95/6-pouch variety pack. Save 20% with a subscription.
These heat-and-serve toddler meals (designed for kids 1+) come in flavors kids love and are packed full of nutrients. The macaroni & cheese has 8 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber, along with 1/4 cup of veggies (pureed butternut squash, sweet potato and cauliflower). The pasta & tomato sauce has 6 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, along with 1/4 of veggies (carrots, sweet potatoes, red pepper). Both are low in sodium and contain no added sugar, additives or preservatives.
Available at target.com and in the produce section of Target stores, $4.99.
With 3 grams of protein, no added sugar and 10 brain-supporting nutrients, Cerebelly's Smart Bars are the snack you'll feel good about feeding your toddler. Think your child might need convincing to try something new? Two of the new flavors feature kid favorites Peppa Pig and George Pig on the package. Cerebelly was created by a neurosurgeon and mom of three to deliver age-optimized nutrition to children's growing brains. The bars in the Peppa Pig collaboration are carrot raisin and blueberry banana sweet potato. The bars also come in apple kale and strawberry beet. Read more about the Cerebelly X Peppa Pig Smart Bars.
Available at cerebelly.com, from $3.74 for a five-pack.
Plant-Based Complete Nutrition for Toddlers from Else Nutrition
This nutritional drink is free of dairy, soy, gluten, corn syrup and GMOs. What it's full of is minimally processed plant-based ingredients, whole foods and 20 vitamins and minerals your child needs to support their growth and development after they turn one. The main ingredients are organic almond butter, organic buckwheat flour and organic tapioca maltodextrin.
BabyPops are a puffed corn and oat snack that's sized just right for tiny hands. This quick-dissolving organic snack contains no added sweetener or salt, and the ingredients are non-GMO. It launched with three yummy varieties: peanut, banana raspberry and tomato. All varieties contain peanut; the peanut version includes organic peanut flour, and the other two are flavored with fruits and veggies.
Nutty Blends from Happy Family Organics combine a fruit with a nut in a tasty pouch, for a healthy, filling snack and an easy way to introduce peanuts and tree nuts to your baby. The line, which was developed with the help of pediatric allergists, comes in four flavors you'll be tempted to try yourself: bananas & almond butter, apples & walnut butter, pears & cashew butter, and bananas & peanut butter.
Learn more and find your nearest store carrying this product at happyfamilyorganics.com, $1.99 per pouch.
Organic Plant-Based Meals from Amara Organic Foods
Add breast milk, formula or water to these shelf-stable, organic, single-serve meal packets for a delicious baby puree, packed with nutrients. Great for kids transitioning to solid foods and quick and easy to prepare on the go, these handy packets come in a variety of flavors, from kale potato veggie mash and peas, corn & carrots to tropical mango and pumpkin & pear.
Available at amaraorganicfoods.com and at grocery stores including Whole Foods and Sprouts.
Organic Banana Mango Puree in a Recyclable Pouch from Gerber
Gerber has launched a recyclable baby-food pouch, so you can feel better about buying the pouches your kids love to eat. The first flavor available in this innovative pouch is organic banana mango puree, a sweet treat packed with potassium and vitamin C. The pouch is completely recyclable through Gerber's national recycling program with TerraCycle.
The nutrient-packed pouches from Serenity Kids sound like fancy restaurant meals. The two newest: pasture-raised turkey with organic pumpkin, sweet potato and beets, and grass-fed bison with organic kabocha squash and spinach. These low-sugar, high-fat pouches for babies six months and up are filled with organic vegetables from small family farms and ethically sourced meats from ranches utilizing regenerative agricultural techniques. Choose from meat and veggie combos, or organic veggies only. The company only uses ingredients that don't contain antibiotics, added hormones, pesticides, fillers, GMOs or major allergens.
Here's a smart snack for toddlers: These nutritious pouches support the immune system and digestive health. In addition to fruits and veggies, the pouches contain 35 mg of beta-glucan and 2g of prebiotic fiber for digestive health. They're available at major retailers nationwide and come in three flavors: bananas, spinach & blueberries; bananas, carrots & strawberries; and pears, beets & blackberries.
Why should we care about regenerative farming? It promotes biodiversity and can help to reverse climate change by building healthy soil that captures carbon from the atmosphere. Healthier soil, healthier food. The Happy Baby Regenerative & Organic line of food pouches debuted with three flavor combinations: apples, kale and oats; pears, squash and oats; and apples and carrots.
Available exclusively at Whole Foods, $8.49 for a four-pack. Learn more at happyfamilyorganics.com.
Babies love pouches, and you'll love that these organic, cold-pressed blends are sustainably grown, certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and full of healthy, organic fruits and veggies. The flavors are grouped by ages and stages, so you can easily find the ones right for your child. Purchase individual flavors as 12-packs, try a variety pack, or sign up for a money-saving subscription.
Horizon Organic has introduced Growing Years organic whole milk, developed in partnership with pediatricians to deliver key nutrients for kids age 1-5. The milk contains DHA Omega-3 for brain and eye health, choline to transport DHA throughout the body, prebiotics that feed good bacteria to the gut, and vitamin D, protein and calcium for growing bones. It's certified organic and produced by pasture-raised cows who are fed an organic, non-GMO diet and are never treated with antibiotics or added hormones.
Available nationwide at select stores for $5.99; use the store locator at horizon.com to find your nearest location.
The veggie-packed baby food pouches from Cerebelly are carefully tailored to nourish baby's growing brain and body. Created by a neurosurgeon mom and a team of medical experts, the purees contain tasty ingredient combinations (such as carrot & chickpea; sweet potato & mango) that deliver protein, omega-3 DHA and the specific nutrients your baby needs for their age and developmental stage. Pick up a three-flavor variety pack at Whole Foods or sign up on the Cerebelly website for shipments every two weeks. On the site, you'll enter information about your baby's age and current developmental milestones, and Cerebelly will recommend flavors that can benefit your babe most. You choose what you like and whether you want 1-4 pouches per day.
Available at Whole Foods and cerebelly.com ($2.31-$2.89 per pouch).
Biodynamic, Organic Pouches & Applesauce from White Leaf Provisions
Environmentally conscious parents will love these new fruit and veggie pouches and applesauce flavors (apple + pear, apple + cinnamon) from White Leaf Provisions. The offerings from this family-run business are both biodynamic and organic. You'll feel good about the delicious snacks you're feeding your kids, as well as the recyclable packaging and earth-friendly farming methods.
Available at whiteleafprovisions.com, $17.94 for a six-pack of pouches and $7.59 for a four-pack of applesauce.
Yummy new flavors of baby food and hearty toddler bowls! Happy Baby Clearly Crafted Jars ($1.25), which feature organic ingredients and the name of the farms where ingredients are grown on each jar, now come in six new flavors: carrots; green beans; carrots & peas; pears & prunes; pears, pineapple & avocado; apples, mangos & beets. The company's Happy Tot Bowls ($2.99) are full of nutritious ingredients and contain no added sugar. The new flavors are: turkey bolognese with lentil pasta, mac & cheese with organic lentil pasta & veggie sauce, and cheesy lentils & quinoa with organic cauliflower & parmesan sauce.
Sprout Foods, known for creating nutritious and delicious food that helps kids get their veggies and other nutrients, is debuting new pouches and snacks for both babies and toddlers. The exciting new offerings include organic waffles, quick-dissolving teething wafers, purees made with organic bone broth protein, four toddler smoothies (made with either yogurt or coconut milk) and two pouches of plant-based protein.
This freeze-dried baby food is packed full of nutrients and other magic: It doesn't expire and is super compact and convenient for travel (even in a carry-on!). To serve, mix the powder with water, breastmilk, formula, milk or broth. Or, for older kids, add the powder to prepared meals to up their health factor. Choose from delicious and nutritious options with clever names, including: Smashing Pumpkins (Japanese pumpkins and carrots), Goldilocks Chicken Congee (millet, barley, koshihikari rice, chicken stock, celery, carrot, bok choy and Japanese pumpkin) and Under the Sardinian Sea (wild sole, Italian white beans, tomato, oregon, basil and avocado oil.
New in January 2019 are Stonyfield Organic YoBaby Veggie Yogurt cups in purple carrot and sweet potato flavors, as well as Kids Whole Milk pouches in new flavors apple cinnamon, sweet potato, and blueberry apple carrot. The baby yogurt cups include no added sweeteners and, like all of their products, are certified organic and free from artificial hormones, toxic pesticides and GMOs. Find the new lines at Target, Publix, Hannafords and many more retailers (find a store near you). Looking for something non-dairy? Try the brand's three new non-dairy fruit and veggie smoothie pouches, made with rich coconut cream as well as half a serving of fruit per pouch. The pouches are available at Whole Foods and come in tropical twist, strawbana smash and berry cherry blast flavors.
Bowls & Bites from Yummy Spoonfuls
Yummy Spoonfuls
Calling all toddlers! Even picky eaters will love the flavor combinations in these bowls (veggie beef, sweet potato & chicken, pinto bean & turkey) and bites (turkey & spinach, chicken & sweet potato, chicken & broccoli). And parents will love that they're nutritious, organic and packed with protein, grains and veggies. And, best of all, they're specifically designed for toddlers' developmental and nutritional needs and don't contain added sugars, artificial preservatives, additives or artificial flavors. Launched in November 2018, the line also features bigger bowls designed for kids age 2 and up.
With summer weather in full effect, now is the perfect time to get your grilling gear in order! Whether you prefer the purity of a charcoal grill or you go for a trendy Traeger, these grilling accessories have you covered from prep to serving. Bonus: they make great gifts as well!
Grilling Essential Bundle from Brandless
If you're not familiar with Brandless, let us tell you that you are going to love everything about this company that values quality and affordability. Get your grilling started with their essentials kit that includes grill tongs, spatula, grill brush, spice jars and more. It makes a great gift for the griller in your life.
These new spices from over-the-fire cooking expert Derek Wolf will definitely bump up your grilling game to a whole other level. $13.95 each.
Bourbon Prime is a rich, smoky and spicy bourbon-infused blend that redefines traditional prime rib rubs with innovative flavor notes of mushroom, butter, Worcestershire and even seaweed.
Lemon Chili Rye is a smoky, slightly bitter and rye-infused blend that finishes with an approachable heat and perfectly balanced acidity.
Smoked Chipotle Mezcal brings a peppery citrus aroma that emulates the experience of sipping mezcal with a citrus back.
Sweet Teriyaki Sake - With notes of sweet, spicy and fermentation from the soy, this sake-infused blend brings a delicious sweet heat to practically any protein.
Melinda's All-Natural Pepper Sauce
Add this one to the list, for sure! Made with real peppers and all-natural vegetable and fruit bases sourced from Colombia, Melinda’s products are non-GMO, gluten-free, Kosher Certified and Keto-friendly. The griller in your life will love adding them to meats on the grill and sides in the oven. The black truffle hot sauce is our favorite on fries and the mango pepper sauce goes great with a breakfast burrito.
BBQ Sauce in a Can (Made with Beer!) from Rufus Teague
Rufus Teague, a leading independent maker of craft BBQ sauces and rubs is once again partnering with Boulevard Brewing Company to expand on their beloved Can-O-Que barbecue sauce. The unique Can-O-Que barbecue sauce is made with Boulevard beer and packaged in an actual beer can.
You'll love getting this grilling box shipped right to your door as it is the perfect option for weekend grilling, or to take with you on your next camping trip. You provide the buns, Porter Road provides the pasture-raised sausage (bratwurst and hot dogs) and Cleveland Kitchen provides the Classic Caraway Kraut and Roasted Garlic Kraut. It's pretty much a match made in grilling heaven.
When you need the perfect oil for grilling, check out Chosen Foods avocado oil. It's high smoke point makes it ideal for grilling and the mild flavor works well for salads and marinades as well. Their lemon garlic dressing is our favorite for summer salads and the avocado oil mayo is the burger fave.
Save yourself the guesswork of knowing when your meat is ready and snag a digital thermometer. This one is instant read so you won't let all the heat out waiting for your temp.
This ultra-affordable knife set has everything you need to thinly slice that flank steak, chop those onions and debone a salmon. Your griller will love the knife blade covers for bringing them along when camping or grilling on the go.
How fun is this sampler that gives you a six pack of beer-infused rubs that are perfect for your next grilling soiree? Resealable lids are included. The Jalapeno Pilsner Lime Rub gives you a fruity, crisp and slightly hoppy kick while the Hickory Peach Porter Rub has chocolate, caramel and toffee tones.
If steak is your thing, this spice set it the ultimate as it comes with everything you need for a steak taste test. Try the top seller Black & Bleu Rub that is a perfect blend of Cajun blackening spices mixed with creamy bleu cheese for the spicy cheesy flavor of your dreams. We also loved the Cowboy Crust Espresso Chile Rub that give you Thomas Hammer Fireball Espresso mixed with chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, and a touch of cayenne.
Even if most kids love avocado, they often leave it untouched in the lunchbox because they didn’t like the first signs of browning. Just like with apples, bananas, and potatoes, avocados turn brown when it’s exposed to oxygen in the air. It’s still safe to eat, but the less browning there is, the better visually, especially if you want to get your child to eat it. Check out easy ways to incorporate avocados into your lunches and how to prevent them from browning below!
Healthy, Easy-to-Pack Lunchbox Ideas with Avocados That Your Kids Will Love
Besides being delicious, avocados are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Welcome vitamin E, potassium, fibers, healthy fats, anti-inflammatory components. The cherry on the cake, they are popular among young kids, including toddlers, if we judge by the frequency we see them in the kid-approved lunch ideas on Teuko.com. Check out these popular and delicious ways to pack avocado in the kids’ lunch.
2. Guacamole or Simply Smashed Avocado
With guacamole in the lunchbox, you send party food for lunch. Use it as a dip with veggies or crackers, and you’ll have here one of the fastest lunch ideas to assemble. Avocado toasts are also a perfect alternative either for lunch, breakfast, or even snack time. Just spread it on the bread of your choice. Find lunch ideas with guacamole on Teuko.com.
3. Avocado Sandwich
Avocado is a great alternative to mayonnaise for every sandwich idea. Don’t have a favorite yet? Start with the simple but delicious avocado/cream cheese sandwich. you can also easily use it in a wrap and make beautiful pinwheels your kid won’t resist. Find lunch ideas with avocado sandwiches on Teuko.com.
5 Popular and Kid-Approved Tricks from Experienced Lunchbox Moms & Dads
How to stop the browning before it even starts? The goal is to protect the flesh of the avocado from oxygen exposure as much as possible.
1. Use Avocado Oil
Rub or spray avocado oil on the exposed flesh, then store the avocado in an airtight container in your refrigerator. You can also use coconut oil or squeeze lemon juice if the taste doesn’t bother your child.
2. Use Frozen Pre-cut Avocado
Many recommend the frozen products found at Costco or Whole Foods.
3. Try Wrapping It Up
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, foil, or any disposable wrapping paper you have at home. You can find disposable or eco-friendly alternatives to regular plastic like the Beeswax Food Wrap Rolls or Compostable Cling Wrap to keep your food fresh naturally and reduce waste!
5. Use a Food Preserver
As an example, Ball Fruit-Fresh Product Protector prevents browning and protects the flavor of fresh-cut produce. Parents say that it works like a charm on avocados—it’s worth a try!
We love these tricks because they are easy and they don’t alter much the flavor nor the aspect of the avocado in the lunchbox, which always helps in getting a child to eat his lunch!
If you are not 100% confident in the preparation you made, you can always use one last trick when packing the lunchbox in the morning. Some parents admitted that using sesame seeds on top of the avocado was efficient enough to “mask” any first sign of browning in the lunchbox. In any case, always make sure the avocado stays in a tightly closed container to prevent air from getting in.
Do you pack lunch? If so, don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase your lunchbox ideas on Teuko.com! Upload your photos today: you’ll build a useful record while inspiring other parents who pack school lunches like you.
Teuko is the first platform that empowers families to simplify lunch packing. Using Teuko, they can find and share kid-approved lunchbox ideas, recipes, and tips, all in one place. Teuko is transforming the lunch packing experience by boosting inspiration and motivation week after week.
This school year brings with it a lot of uncertainties. Parents will be juggling trying to manage remote or hubris learning while working from home as well. Frozen pizza is a convenient go-to for a kid-friendly easy lunch, quick dinner or afternoon snack.
Freezer staples can make preparing a meal easier than ever when the pantry and fridge are looking bare, or you simply need a meal ready in minutes. Oath Pizza Meal Kits offer families the opportunity to to always have delicious, better-for-you pizza on hand.
Every Oath Pizza offers the option of a thin crust grilled and seared in avocado oil (vegan), gluten-free crust, or cauliflower crust; fresh, thoughtfully sourced vegetables and fruits; humanely raised proteins without any antibiotics, hormones or growth promotants and dairy free varieties.
Meal Kit varieties include:
Classic Cheese Pizza Meal Kit: Two- or four-pack of classic cheese pizzas (VG), with all three crust options, an optional swap for vegan cheese, and chocolate chunk cookies. This kit retails from $44.00.
Bestseller Pizza Meal Kit: Two-pack of fan favorites – one Bella (VG) and one Spicy Mother Clucker, or a four-pack including those two pizzas plus a classic cheese (VG) and a classic pepperoni, all with chocolate chunk cookies. This kit retails from $54.00.
Custom Pizza Meal Kit: A two-, four-, or six-pack pizza kit with 10 pizza varieties to choose from, as well as each individual pie’s crust. For dessert, choose the classic chocolate chunk cookies, Honduran Chocolate Brownies (GF) or Chewy Marshmallow Bars (GF). This kit retails from $74.00.
Meal Kits ship nationwide, delivered right to your front door, and are ready in less than 15 minutes.
We can’t do anything about the sweltering summer temperatures (boo!), but we can offer tips for keeping kids cool, calm and collected through the dog days of summer (yay!). Here are some of our favorite ways to beat the heat. And the best part? You can do all of them without breaking a sweat. (Sorry, we had to.)
1. Keep It Cool A shady spot is a must for outdoor activities, and to really keep baby’s skin from getting sweaty and irritated, slather on Pipette’s Baby Cream to Powder. It works like baby powder, but without the talc or messy application. When you apply this cream, you’ll feel it dry into a silky powder that minimizes sweat and chafing. Made with sugarcane-derived squalane and mango seed butter for moisturizing and arrowroot powder and tapioca starch to wick away wetness, it’s the perfect cream to keep your child cool and comfortable on warm days.
2. Take Cover If you’re planning to log a lot of hours in the sun with your mini-me, you’ll need to keep an arsenal of baby-friendly sunscreen at the ready. Our top pick: Honest Mineral Sunscreen. The zinc oxide-based formula is rated at SPF 50+, and because it’s made with shea butter and coconut oil and without chemicals, parabens, fragrance or dyes, it’s gentle enough for baby. (Find more of our sunscreen recommendations here: The Best Baby Sunscreens.)
3. Just Breathe To keep baby from feeling hot and bothered this summer, ditch the polyester duds and look to breathable fabrics made from natural fibers. Cotton is a classic pick, but bamboo is taking the children’s textile market by storm for good reason. Not only is it soft and breathable, it absorbs up to three times its own weight to help wick away sweat from babyies’ skin, keeping them cool and dry. (It’s a great choice for bed sheets, too!)
4. Drink Up Keeping baby hydrated is important year-round but even more crucial when the mercury starts to rise. Offer baby liquids frequently, especially when you’re out and about, to ward off dehydration. Keep liquids cool by popping bottles or sippy cups into a small insulated bag with an ice pack when you head outdoors. Planning a longer outing? Freeze liquids before you leave and you’ll have an icy drink to enjoy.
5. Just Add Water A little water exploration can go a long way in creating fun summer experiences with babies—and keeping them cool, of course! Pack the swim diaper and sunscreen and head to your local splash pad or zero-depth entry leisure pool, or bring the fun home with a small inflatable pool, splash mat or water table you can set up in your own backyard.
6. Let Loose Imagine this: It’s hot out, the humidity is high, and you’re trapped in a cocoon of fabric with another human being’s body heat emanating through it. That is how your baby may feel after spending too much time in a carrier this summer. Consider opting for a stroller (with a sufficient sun shade!) instead. If you (or your baby) prefer a carrier, look for one made of light, breathable fabric, such as the Bamboo Moby Wrap, to help keep both of you comfortable. (Check out the latest baby carriers here: The Best New Baby Carriers)
7. Turn Up the Air Adding a portable fan to your baby’s stroller will help keep them cool and comfortable. Our pick: the O2COOL® 4-Inch Portable Stroller Clip Fan has an easy-to-use design that clips onto any stroller frame and a bendable neck that allows you to adjust the direction of the airflow for maximum comfort.
8. Timing Is Everything To avoid the energy drain that comes from being in the heat, plan your outdoor adventures for the early morning or evening hours instead. Besides letting you take advantage of cooler temps, you and baby will benefit from smaller crowds, whether you’re heading to the park (no wait for the baby swings!) or the zoo (finally, a front-row glimpse of the lions!). If you want to get out in the afternoon, choose an indoor spot like an aquarium, pet store or the local mall, where you can take advantage of the AC.
9. Spray It On Most babies have a blast playing outside on a sunny day, but the elements can take their toll quickly on sensitive skin. After extensive sun exposure, reach for a moisturizing spritz like Mustela After Sun Hydrating Spray, which is made with avocado oil and shea butter to soothe, nourish and refresh your little one’s skin.
10. Monitor Magic A baby monitor with up-to-date temperature sensing technology can keep baby sleeping comfortably through those hot summer nights. Because infants aren’t able to regular their body temperatures as well as adults, a too warm or too cool environment can make your little one restless. Most experts recommend setting the thermostat between 68 and 72. One option: The Philips Avent DECT Baby Monitor with Temperature Sensor and Night Mode will not only let you monitor the climate in baby’s room, it allows you to create customizable settings to alert you to changes in nursery temperature changes.
