Toddlers and snacks go together like peanut butter and jelly. Nary a parent will leave the house without at least a few bags of crackers, fruit snacks, or fruit and veggie pouches stashed in their bag to avoid meltdowns. If your littles are getting tired of the same old nibbles, check out some of our favorite Trader Joe’s snacks for toddlers. They’re bound to keep them full, plus parents won’t mind scarfing down the leftovers.

Cheddar Rocket Crackers

If your toddler needs a break from regular Goldfish crackers, TJ’s Cheddar Rocket Crackers are a sure bet. They pack a cheesy punch and bring a new non-fishy shape that littles will love.

Bambino Pepperoni Pizza

Sometimes toddlers have the appetite of a grown man, and sometimes they seem to survive on air. When you aren’t sure, these Bambino Pepperoni Pizzas come in handy. Each box comes with 4 pizzas roughly the circumference of a baseball. Slice into small pieces for a hearty snack or heat up a few pies for those inevitable growth spurts.

 

Gone Berry Crazy & Gone Bananas

Any seasoned parent knows that sometimes you need to entice kids with a little something sweet to get their fruit servings in for the day. The Gone Bananas and Gone Strawberries at Trader Joe’s are chocolate-dipped treats that are flash-frozen, meaning you can pull out a handful for snack time and enjoy right away!

 

Animal Crackers

It’s just plain common sense to keep a bucket of TJ’s Animal Crackers on hand at all times. They are great for the munchies, can be dipped in yogurt for some added protein, and are also fun to mix together with a salty treat to keep things interesting.

 

Fruit Sauce Crushers

Trader Joe’s

This wouldn’t be a list of Trader Joe’s snacks for toddlers without mentioning the grocer’s fruit sauce crushers. They come in flavors that include Apple Banana, Apple Strawberry, Apple Mango, and just plain Apple. They’re great to pack for preschool or keep on hand at the bottom of your purse.

 

Mac & Cheese Bites

Tired of whipping up box after box of mac and cheese? It’s time to give your toddler a taste of Mac & Cheese Bites! The four-cheese, breaded macaroni balls are light and seasoned just enough to not deter your toddler from eating them. In the event that they don’t enjoy, they make the perfect lunch for mom or dad.

Freeze Dried Fruit

Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's

Trader Joe’s

We have to confess that while TJ’s bags of freeze-dried fruit are delicious, they can be messy! Think: blue fingers thanks to the blueberries coming into contact with sticky hands. But if you can get past that, we can pretty much guarantee your toddler will scarf down plenty of airy and crunchy fruit in the meantime.

 

Frozen Silver Dollar Pancakes

Great for breakfast, brinner, or a snack, these Silver Dollar Pancakes are toddler approved. You can heat them in seconds by tossing them in the microwave and they fit perfectly in tiny hands. Enjoy with syrup, butter, peanut butter, or just a la carte!

 

 

Cinnamon Schoolhouse Cookies

Perfect for learning your ABC’s, Trader Joe’s Schoolhouse cookies make a great snack for toddlers. They are crunchy, cinnamon-flavored, and an entertaining activity to boot!

 

Fruit Leather Buttons

Trader Joe's snacks for toddlers fruit leather buttons

We love to bring these along in our mom-bag as they are a great quick snack that doesn’t make a mess. Plus, they come in kid-approved flavors like mango and grape.

Peanut Butter Bamba

Kids who can enjoy peanuts will love the crispy crunchy goodness that is the Bamba! The light, puffed snack has a peanutty flavor that is mild and contains a tiny amount of sugar. Oh, did we also mention it’s just $.99 a bag?

 

Yogurt

Yes, yogurt might be messy but no one can argue how much toddlers love a good batch. The great thing about TJ’s yogurt packs is that each pack has two flavors for your toddler’s ever-changing tastebuds, plus you can enjoy with a spoon or freeze (like the pic above) and turn them into a frozen treat. They’ll never know it’s not ice cream!

Organic Mini Cheese Sandwich Crackers

You may claim that these are for the kids, but we know that parents hide them behind the Raisin Bran to keep them for themselves. Who can blame them? These crackers are tiny, salty, and full of simple ingredients. 

 

Trader Joe's Contemplates Inner Peas

Not only is this product a clever pun but it is a pretty tasty snack. Known in the toddler circle as "crunchy peas," these are fun for dipping in a personal-sized hummus. 

When it comes to plastic Easter eggs, we often end up with way more than we know what to do with, so we looked around and found some fun and easy plastic Easter egg crafts and activities that kids will love. From using them as a soap mold or mini planter to festive bunny-themed décor, there are plenty of ways to reuse plastic Easter eggs. 

Looking for more crafts for kids? Check out our favorite egg carton crafts, the best crafts for toddlers, and crafts that use upcycled materials.

Rolled Easter Egg Painting

Tinkerlab

No brushes are needed when you paint with Easter eggs! This creative plastic easter egg craft from Tinkerlab lets your littles express themselves with lots of color. 

Egg-Shaped Soap

Mad in Crafts

Why buy soap when you can make it, and in an egg shape at that! This easy-to-make plastic easter egg craft from Mad in Crafts takes simple ingredients to whip up soap and uses plastic eggs as a mold. After four hours in the fridge, you have your own (festive) soap.

Bath Bombs

a picture of easter egg bath bombs, a fun plastic easter egg craft
Bitz & Giggles

There are bath bombs, and then there are Easter egg bath bombs. While this DIY from Bitz & Giggles requires adult supervision (there's citric acid involved), your kiddos will get a kick out of making, decorating, and using these bath accessories in the tub or for some fun science experiments.

Plastic Easter Egg Succulent Planters

You had us at succulents. Click through the Instagram post above to see the stylish mini planters, and check out the tutorial from Kailo Chic. You'd hardly know these planters were once plain, plastic Easter eggs!

Plastic Easter Egg Flowers

Make and Takes

Plastic Easter eggs and pipe cleaners are all you need to whip up a bouquet that lasts forever. Marie from Make and Takes whipped up a simple array of flowers in a flash, and your kids can too—this would be one fun afternoon activity.

Plastic Easter Egg Spring Garland

The How To Mom

Those plastic Easter eggs aren't just for hunting! You can turn them into festive decor like this adorable garland from The How To Mom. String up with some simple pom poms and you have a simple decoration that kids can help make. 

Plastic Easter Egg Maracas

a picture of easter egg maracas
Made Everyday

This genius plastic Easter egg craft from Made Everyday is bound to be a hit with your budding musicians. They’ll have a blast filling and decorating the maracas, not to mention the hours of entertainment once they’re done. 

Round Rockets

Inspiration Laboratories

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s a plastic egg? Using stuff you probably have in your desk drawers (tape, paper, etc.), you can make a few rockets and let the kids race them in two ways—into the sky or back down to earth. Find out what you’ll need for this fun project at Inspiration Laboratories.

Bird Feeder

Playing House in Maryland

Why should bunnies have all the fun? With some bird feed, it’s a cinch to make a yummy snack for feathered friends. Want to know exactly what’s needed for this project? Get the answers over Playing House in Maryland.

A Spring Wreath

Crazy Little Projects

Craft a colorful wreath perfect for spring like this one from Crazy Little Projects. It’s easy to make using just a few craft store supplies and cute enough to display all season long. 

Tea Light Flight

Taylor Made Creates

We are still blinking in amazement over this upcycled DIY. You can make a gorgeous tea light flight for next to nothing with a few supplies (including hot glue and paint). Find the how-to, and the answer to the question “will the eggs melt?,” over at Taylor Made Creates.

Hot Air Balloon Eggs

Snowdrop and Company

Easter eggs become entirely new with these adorable hot air balloons from Snowdrop and Company. They’ll make a whimsical decoration for your little one’s room or can be used to stash secret treats. 

Plastic Easter Egg Mini Terrariums

The House that Lars Built

Keep the spring feeling around longer by creating a mini terrarium. We love this version from The House that Lars Built; not only are the eggs gorgeous, but the flowers aren’t real, which means you and the kids can enjoy the fruit of your labor for more than a few days. 

Eggs as Stamps

picture of an plastic easter egg craft which is egg stamps
Buggy and Buddy

Perfect for toddler hands, easy-to-grip plastic Easter eggs make an awesome addition to any artsy afternoon. Find out what kind of paint to use, and other handy tips, over at Buggy and Buddy.

Little Bees

Tried & True

How cute are these little bees from Tried & True? We love how simple they are—you can craft a flock of them in no time and string them up to add some color to your space. 

Make a Sensory Bin

Little Bins for Little Hands

Easter eggs … if you’ve got a few (or 100) laying around after the big day, you can easily set up this sensory project we spotted at Little Bins for Little Hands. All you’ll need is soap, water, and enthusiastic kids. 

Popsicle Molds

Mama. Papa. Bubba

How awesome are these frozen yogurt molds from Mama. Papa. Bubba? The hardest part of this brilliant idea is making a place for the popsicle sticks. With just a little planning (and an electric tool), you’ll be on your way. 

Plastic Easter Egg Number Snake

I Can Teach My Child

We love this craft-meets-learning activity from I Can Teach My Child. Kids will have a blast practicing their numbers while building fine motor skills. Once it’s done, they’ve got a cute playtime-ready snake. 

Plastic Easter Egg Toss Game

A Mom with a Lesson Plan

You can’t go wrong with good old-fashioned competition, and this idea from A Mom with a Lesson Plan will keep the kids occupied for hours. Gather your plastic eggs and empty water bottles, and you’re halfway there.

DIY Easter Egg Mobile

Jen Perkins

This adorable mobile made from recycled plastic Easter eggs is not only the perfect touch to a kid's room, but it's also pretty simple to do. Jennifer Perkins breaks it all down for you, including the how-tos and the supplies you'll need, here

 

 

 

These easy dip recipes are packed with meat and veggies that make them a full meal

Have you ever whipped up a dip appetizer for an upcoming party that was so hearty, you could eat it for dinner? Since we rarely hear of kids (okay, except the uber-picky eaters) or adults refusing a warm dip paired with crispy bread or veggies, why not make that delicious dip into dinner? These easy dip recipes include everything from classics like artichoke and buffalo dips to new takes on the viral TikTok baked feta and tomato recipe, and each idea is a great way to spice up your dinner routine.

Creamy Hot Artichoke Dip Recipe with Garlic Toast Rounds

easy dip recipes
Boulder Locavore

This isn’t your grandma’s plain ole artichoke dip! This version is made with sour cream, three kinds of cheese, and a little hot sauce to give it a kick. While you could eat this with a fork, this recipe from Boulder Locavore also includes steps on how to make your own garlic toast rounds which makes this dip even more scoopable.

Chicken Enchilada Dip

This is definitely a dinner masquerading as a dip, what with the chicken, Rotel, cream cheese, and lots of savory spices. Did we mention it’s also low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free? Serve with veggies, chips or just spread on a tortilla and make a roll up! You can find the full recipe here.

Sweet Vidalia Onion Dip

The View from Great Island

There is absolutely nothing wrong with a tub of sour cream and a packet of onion dip mix, but this hot sweet Vidalia onion dip from The View from Great Island is for those days you want a little something extra! It’s made with aged Italian cheese, white cheddar, mozzarella, Worcestershire, and a little hot sauce. Toast up a sliced baguette and dinner is served.

Broccoli Cheese Dip

Bitz & Giggles

No, this isn’t a creamy soup—it’s your next dinner! It’s made with ingredients you likely keep on hand, like bagged broccoli, onion, garlic, and cream of celery soup. It comes together in a jiffy and per the recipe creator, pairs well with corn chips or even small pieces of bagel. Get the recipe from Bitz & Giggles.

Related: Soup and Stew Recipes To Warm You Up This Winter

Hatch Chili Corn Dip

This Hatch chili dip recipe is an Easy Dip Recipes
Family Spice

Ever wonder how to use Hatch chilis? This recipe puts this smoky veggie to good use. After roasting, combine the chili with corn, red bell pepper, green onions, and pepper jack cheese, then roast until everything is bubbly. Sure, this recipe from Family Spice is great for game day but it’s even better for dinner.

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip

Slow cooker Buffalo chicken dip is an easy dip recipe
Gimmie Some Oven

Easy dip recipe: coming right up! All you have to do is toss ingredients that include cooked chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and a few others into a crock pot and cook on high for a few hours. Grab your favorite dippers or chips, then enjoy. Get the recipe from Gimmie Some Oven.

Hot Tandoori Chicken Dip

The best part of this easy dip recipe is you can skip making Tandoori chicken—just use rotisserie! It does use a few Indian spices so make sure you have them on hand before diving in, but the creamy recipe that’s full of flavor is completely worth an extra shopping trip. Get the full recipe here.

Fire Roasted Corn Dip

A Spicy Perspective

There is something about fire-roasting ingredients that takes them next level, and that’s exactly what this recipe does with corn. When you combine with spicy pepper cheese, cooked chorizo, bell pepper, and onion, you get a delectable dip that pairs great with chips or street-size tortillas.

Loaded Baked Potato Dip

This baked potato dip is an easy dip recipe.
Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Baked potatoes can take a while to prepare so you can skip some of the hassle with this easy dip recipe from Chelsea’s Messy Apron. It’s made with all your favorite toppings, like green onions, cheese, and bacon. You can enjoy it with veggies or pretzels, or top on a baked potato for the ultimate experience.

Philly Cheesesteak Dip

This Philly cheesteak dip is an easy dip recipe
Carlsbad Cravings

The heart of this dip from Carlsbad Cravings is beef and cheese, so you know it’s going to be hearty. It’s then combined with other Philly cheesesteak faves like onion and bell pepper then baked until bubbly. Serve with toasted bread or crackers!

Ranch Crack Dip

Ranch crack dip is an easy dip recipe
Scrambled Chefs

Ranch is always a fan favorite and this dip uses sour cream, cream cheese, cheese, onion, and bacon in a delightful combination. After baking, enjoy this hearty dip from Scrambled Chefs with pita, crackers, pretzels, or veggies.

Mississippi Sin Dip

Spend with Pennies

With a name like that, you know it’s going to be sinfully good! It’s similar to Crack Ranch Dip with its bacon, cream cheese, and chives but is served in a bread bowl which basically means it’s a meal. If you’d rather be fancy, you can serve on crisp crostini. Get the recipe from Spend with Pennies.

Healthy Taco Dip

Easy Dip Recipes
Isabel Eats

This taco dip from Isabel Eats is very reminiscent of the seven-layer dip of your youth, but a little healthier. It uses refried beans, cream cheese, tomatoes, salsa, lettuce, jalapeños, and cheese. If you want to make this dip an experience, take a stab at making your own tortilla chips to go with it!

Baked Feta Dip with Cherry Tomatoes

Baked Feta Dip is an easy dip recipe
Cookie and Kate

Great for summer dinners, this easy dip recipe from Cookie and Kate is flavorful and light. It uses feta, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, garlic, and basil and is baked until the tomatoes release all their sweet goodness. Stir and eat with pita wedges or crackers.

Texas Trash Tip

This Texas Trash dip is an easy dip recipe
Bake Me Some Sugar

We’re not entirely sure where this dip got its name, but we appreciate the simple ingredients and the amazing taste.  You probably already have a lot of the must-haves, like refried beans, Rotel, taco seasoning, cream cheese, and taco seasoning. It goes great with chopped veggies, pretzels, or chips. Get the recipe from Bake Me Some Sugar.

Pepperoni Pizza Dip

Pepperoni Pizza Dip
Dinner Then Dessert

Most kids can’t turn away pizza, and they’ll likely love this dip from Dinner Then Dessert, too. It’s made with marinara, pepperoni, cream cheese, and Italian spices and is baked for a quick 15 minutes. Scoop up with breadsticks for the full pizza experience!

 

One-pot meals come together easily and are ideal for quick family meals

Quick and delicious weeknight dinners plus easy cleanup? Yes, please. The fewer dishes to clean during the week, the better—which is why easy one-pot meals really hit the spot. Below, we’ve rounded up some amazing one-pot dinners that come together quickly, and our list includes everything from one-pot pasta recipes to stir-fries and soups. Get ready to break out your Dutch oven or your Instant Pots! 

One-Pot Baked Potato Soup

When it comes to one-pot meals, soup is a classic (and a kid favorite). This potato soup from Sweet and Savory Meals has all the good things like bacon, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Even better, it can be made in an Instant Pot. If you’d rather take your time, check out her slow cooker version here

Easy One-Pot Baked Chicken and Rice Pilaf

Juicy chicken thighs and tasty rice come together in this easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner. Get the recipe from The Wooden Skillet.

One-Pan Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

This one-pan pork chop recipe from The Chunky Chef is lighter and healthier than a lot of pork chop recipes out there, and it doesn’t skimp on flavor. Even better, it comes together in 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal idea.

Beef Stir Fry

Beef stir fry is an easy one pot meal for families
Spend with Pennies

You can’t go wrong with a lightning-fast stir fry, and this version from Spend with Pennies is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Everything cooks together in one pan, you can adapt ingredients depending on your family's preferences, and the flavorful soy-based sauce is light but delicious. 

Greek Dutch Oven Roast Chicken

dutch oven roast chicken one-pot dinner recipe
The Greek Foodie

Sunday dinner just got even better thanks to this drool-worthy recipe from The Greek Foodie A whole roast chicken might sound like a daunting project, but it’s an easy one-pot meal to pull together. Plus, since there are potatoes at the bottom of the pot to catch all the chicken juices, you don’t need to worry about making separate sides. 

Chicken Parmesan Pasta

An easy one pot meal is this chicken parmesan pasta
Erin Lives Whole

We’re always craving chicken parmesan, but it’s a ton of work to make the traditional version with breaded cutlets. That’s why we love this recipe from Erin Lives Whole—you get all those delicious flavors with a fraction of the effort. 

Veggie Pasta One Pot Wonder

This veggie pasta recipe is an easy one pot meal
Apron Strings

It makes sense that if you cook pasta in water, you can switch out the water for stock, add chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices and the pasta will cook just as well with the bonus of a self-made sauce. That's what's going in this super simple veggie pasta dish featured in our archives. Garnish with grated cheese, and dinner's done.

Crock Pot Sweet Pork

crock pot sweet pork one-pot dinner
Our Table for Seven

If you don't have a Crock Pot, this sweet pork recipe from our archives might be the incentive you need to get one. With three simple ingredients in one pot, it works great when you've been raced off your feet and want an easy dinner option. Plus, it makes great leftovers. Serve with salsa and salad, and you're done.

Skillet Steak and Potatoes

skillet steak and potatoes is an easy one pot meal
Carlsbad Cravings

Steak and potatoes are a staple almost everyone (even picky eaters) will like, and this version from Carlsbad Cravings comes together in just 30 minutes. Plus, the garlic herb butter gives it something special. Serve with your kids' favorite veggies and you'll have a hearty and easy one-pot dinner.

 

Related: 19 One-Pot Pasta Recipes That Keep Dirty Dishes to a Minimum

Mexican Chicken and Rice

This Mexican chicken and rice is an easy one pot meal
Erin at Well Plated

Here's an easy one-pot dinner you can make with pantry staples. The dish from Well Plated uses canned black beans, canned diced tomatoes, and brown rice. You'll also need some fresh veggies, but the recipe is super versatile so use what you have. Skip the jalapeño if that's too much for the little ones, and top with shredded cheese, avocado, salsa, and sour cream for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Lemony Greek Chicken

Boulder Locavore

A dish of braised chicken thighs that takes little effort and includes sautéed onions and potatoes must be one of the best ways to end a long day. The only fiddly bit is flipping the meat when you sear it at the beginning, the rest is easy as pie. The recipe from Boulder Locavore has a Greek twist with feta and olives but you can always switch out the olives for raisins if you think the kids will prefer a sweeter taste.

Baked Risotto

My Little Larder

Risotto doesn't have to mean you are tied to a hot stove while the kids chant about how hungry they are. With baked risotto, you can do 10 minutes of prep and get the same big pot of comforting gooey rice for dinner with less than half the effort. Head over to My Little Larder for this recipe where you just have to check and stir every ten to fifteen minutes. Open to lots of variations, just serve with some grated cheese and you've got an easy one-pot family dinner.

Quick One Pot Beef Stew

NerdyMamma

It's hard to beat a hearty and comforting beef stew and this dish from NerdyMamma is a real crowd-pleaser. The ground beef is browned with fresh or canned veggies and mixed with tomato sauce for a quick weekday dinner in one pot. Head to NerdyMamma for the recipe and serve with crackers or cornbread.

One-Pot Coconut Chicken and Rice

One Lovely Life

A simple recipe bursting with flavor makes for one delicious dish, courtesy of Emily over at One Lovely Life. In under 30 minutes, you'll have a chicken and rice dish your family will be begging you to make at least once a week.  

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cream, garlic, and chicken all come together in this savory and easy one-pot meal that’s guaranteed to delight everyone in your home. If you’ve got kids who don’t love sauce, set aside a piece of chicken and serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Get the recipe from Carlsbad Cravings.

30-Minute Shrimp, Peas, and Rice

A 30-minute easy-one pot meal that requires zero chopping, tastes great, and can be doubled for larger families? Yes, please! This shrimp meal from Skinny Taste will be an immediate favorite.

Dinner can be a challenge, but with these make-ahead meals to keep in the freezer, you’ll always have something delicious on deck!

Whip out your weekly meal planner, it’s time to get prepping! We know firsthand how busy life gets, whether you’re dealing with busy school nights or trapped under a baby for multiple daily naps. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a handle on your daily dinners. With some meal prep and a few well-crafted make-ahead meals, you’ll be serving up great food in no time. If you’re looking for more inspo when it comes to quick dinners, check out these one-pot meals and these recipes that take 30 minutes or less.

Honey Sesame Chicken

This delicious dinner can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. When you're ready, defrost and toss into the slow cooker. Service with rice and broccoli and dinner is done. 

One-Pot Sausage and Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

one-pot pasta is an easy make-ahead meal
Budget Bytes

Perfect for meal prepping for a week's worth of lunches, Budget Bytes' One Pot Sausage and Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a meal even your picky eaters will enjoy. From the savory sausage to the sweet sun-dried tomatoes, this beautifully colored dish is made using just one pan and makes tons of leftovers.

Easy Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

crock pot sloppy joes are an easy make-ahead meal
Yummy Healthy Easy

The classic American dish has never been easier than with Yummy Healthy Easy's recipe for Sloppy Joe's. Add browned meat and spices to a crockpot before heading out for school pickup, after-school sports, or weekend activities, and return home to a hot dinner with minimal effort.

Related: Bun in the Oven: Make-Ahead Freezer Meals for Moms-to-Be

20-Minute Tuscan Pasta

20-minute pasta is a good make-ahead meal
Six Sisters' Stuff

A creamy pasta that easily camouflages vegetables, Six Sisters' Stuff recipe for 20-Minute Tuscan Pasta is an easy choice for meal prep. Make the full recipe and save half for the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, take out and allow to thaw in the fridge for 24 hours then reheat for 30 minutes in the oven. Dinner is served!

Pesto Chicken Pizza Rolls

The Lean Green Bean

Chicken+pizza does a happy child make! These Pesto Chicken Pizza Rolls from the Lean Green Bean are not only awesome looking, but they are great to make in a big batch and serve all week for snacks or lunch. Enjoy reheated or cold, they'll make any hungry little happy.

Hawaiian Sweet Roll Sliders

Hawaiian Sweet Roll Sliders are an easy make-ahead meal
Make-Ahead Meal Mom

Perfect for the freezer, these mini sandwiches from Make-Ahead Mom are made with sweet buns for an extra punch of flavor. Topped with a savory sauce, they heat up to melty goodness in the oven straight from the freezer, and are great for lunches, appetizers, and tailgating!

Related: 13 Big-Batch Recipes That Will Last All Week

Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad

Gimme Some Oven

We know, kiddos usually shy away from salads but this fresh meal from Gimme Some Oven is perfect for warm nights. We can't help but think they'll love throwing this together ahead of time and tossing in the canned mandarin oranges, edamame, and crunchy ramen.

Breakfast Burritos

Inquiring Chef

There’s nothing better than breakfast for dinner! Whip up a batch of these freezer-friendly burritos from Inquiring Chef, then heat them up any time of the day for a super satisfying meal. Best of all, you can heat them up straight from the freezer, making them the perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Beef Stew

a good make-ahead meal is beef stew.
Pinch of Yum

This freezer meal from Pinch of Yum is the ultimate in comfort food, with hearty chunks of beef, plenty of carrots and celery and luscious tomato-based gravy. If you have an Instant Pot, this is a great time to use it (it’ll be ready in 45 minutes flat!), but there are also instructions to make it in a slow cooker.

Crustless Quiche with Bacon, Broccoli and Cheddar

This Farm Girl Cooks

Everyone loves a good quiche, and this one from This Farm Girl Cooks is a make-ahead dream. It reheats well in the microwave after it’s been cooled, or you can freeze the uncooked egg mixture and thaw it when you’re ready to bake. Any way you slice it, it’s bound to be an instant favorite.

Thai Peanut Noodle Salad

make ahead dinners
Vanilla and Bean

If your kids balk at the idea of salad, then this colorful Thai-inspired dish from Vanilla and Beanjust might get them to give it a try. It’s filled with veggies, rice noodles and a tangy, garlicky peanut lime sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, it keeps well for days to come.

Related: 10 Make-Ahead Breakfast Recipes for Kids to Simplify Your Mornings

Leftover Chicken Flatbread Pizza

A Taste of Madness

Give leftover rotisserie chicken an upgrade with the perfect kid-pleaser: pizza! This idea from A Taste of Madness is super easy and a great option for your weekly meal prep.

Freezer Croissant Breakfast Sandwiches

make ahead breakfast croissant
Damn Delicious

All hail Damn Delicious and this idea for freezer breakfast sandwiches. They do their name justice (hello, easy breakfast!) but also work as a quick and quirky lunch or dinner. The kids can even help assemble the ingredients!

Big Batch Chinese Beef

Kitchen Sanctuary

Put down the takeout menu! Thanks to Kitchen Sanctuary, we’ve got something much better for your hungry family. This beef dish is great for a crowd and can be used with your slow cooker. (Bonus points if you add bok choy or another green veggie!)

Make Ahead Macaroni and Cheese

make ahead mac and cheese
Kristine's Kitchen

You can never have too many mac and cheese recipes! We’re digging this one from Kristine’s Kitchen because it’s a snap to make and you can refrigerate it up to two days before baking. It's a cheesy win-win!

One-Pot Black Bean Fajita Pasta

make ahead dinners
Sweet Peas and Saffron

Psst! Not only is this a one-pot dish from Sweet Peas and Saffron bursting with flavor, but it can also be assembled ahead of time and frozen! So when a crazy weeknight hits, all you have to do is place everything in a pot and get cooking.

Make-Ahead Spaghetti

make-ahead spaghetti
Kitchen Sanctuary

Cooking for a crowd? Need a quick meal on a chaotic weeknight? This spaghetti, courtesy of Kitchen Sanctuary, is the answer! It’s über flavorful and can even be frozen. Plus, it’s full of veggies and crispy bacon.

5-Ingredient Pizza Bagel Bites

make ahead dinners
Life Made Simple

Bagel bites and kids go together like cheese and pepperoni, which means you’ve got to try this idea from Life Made Simple. Way better than store-bought, these pizza bagel bites are customizable, freezable, and a cinch to make.

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

make ahead dinners
Dinner at the Zoo

Fish gotta swim, birds gotta fly, and sometimes families gotta have mashed potatoes. That’s where this casserole from Dinner at the Zoo comes in. It’s loaded with wow factor (a.k.a. bacon, cheese, sour cream, and chives), but easy to make for any holiday or weeknight.

Related: 12 Superfood Recipes That’ll Help Keep Kids Healthy

Baked Italian Meatballs

make ahead dinners
Thriving Home

We love these meatballs from Thriving Home Blog, which are baked, delicious and the best thing to happen to your freezer in a long time. Add them to your spaghetti, make a sandwich or just eat ‘em straight for a perfect weeknight meal.

Homemade Frozen Pizza

Love & Olive Oil

You know those store-bought frozen pizzas that you keep around for supper emergencies? Well, this homemade version from Love and Olive Oil is so much better! With tons of customization options and homemade flavor, these make-ahead pizzas are sure to please the whole family.

Chicken & Veggie Pasta Casserole

Jo Cooks

The beauty of this chicken and veggie pasta casserole from Jo Cooks is that it makes a bonanza amount of food and gives kids a good dose of veggies, too. Reinvent the leftovers during the week or freeze a portion and save for later!

Chicken (Minus the Noodles) Soup

Mrs. Schwartz's Kitchen

For all the times you need comfort food in a pinch, this chicken soup from Mrs. Schwartz’s Kitchen has you covered. Freeze the stock mixture, add the noodles when you’re ready to eat, and voila—dinner is served! 

Homemade Fish Sticks

make ahead dinners
Katy She Cooks

As everyone knows, there are plenty of fish sticks in the sea—or at least there are plenty of homemade fish sticks in the freezer, thanks to Katy She Cooks. Bonus: This recipe is way healthier than what you'll find in the frozen food aisle.

Related: 18 Comfort Food Recipes to Get You Through the Winter

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells

spinach and stuffed cheese shells is a popular make ahead meal
Kristine's Kitchen Blog

Here’s an updated tongue twister for you: She eats stuffed shells on busy school nights. You can make it happen, with the help of Kristine’s Kitchen Blog. (Psst! You can even lighten them up with cottage cheese.)

Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Our Family Eats

Let’s face it, kids love kid-size food—and these mini meatloaf muffins from Our Family Eats are no exception. Not only are they packed with protein and vegetables, but they can also be frozen for about two months. We promise, your minis will love them.

Tortellini, Spinach, and Black Bean Soup

How To: Simplify

You've got to bookmark this hearty tortellini, spinach, and black bean soup from How To: Simplify. It's a great thing to have on hand for the mid-week rush, and it offers a tasty way to scarf up spinach.

Garden Vegetable Lasagna

make ahead meals
Tastes Lovely

Load up on your veggies with this delish lasagna from Tastes Lovely! The cheesy layers are a total kid-pleaser—and they make great camouflage for the green stuff.

Mac and Cheese with Sneaky Sweet Potato

Thriving Home Blog

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? Especially when it’s healthy, delicious, and freezable? This Thriving Home recipe involves Greek yogurt and sweet potato, among other ingredients. We guarantee the kiddos will want seconds!

Easy Tomato Soup with Roasted Bell Peppers

make ahead meals
Julia Kicova on Unsplash

This make-ahead meal combines simple ingredients to make a truly magical soup—not a bad kitchen lesson for your little chefs! It’s easy to whip up and freezes beautifully so you can slurp it up any day of the week. Get the recipe here.

Chicken Pot Hand Pies

Two Healthy Kitchens

How cute are these hand pies from Two Healthy Kitchens? They’ve got all the tastiness of chicken pot pie (hello, flavorful veggies, tender chicken, and thyme crust!) but are totally kid-sized. 

 

Mornings are busy. These breakfast options for kids can help.

Whoever said breakfast is the most important meal of the day never encountered a squirmy toddler or a picky eater. To help fill those bellies first thing in the morning, we discovered a slew of delicious store-bought breakfast ideas that you’ll feel good giving to your kids and they’ll actually eat without putting up a fight. These easy breakfast ideas for kids go beyond just filling them up; they also multitask with good-for-them ingredients that you’ll appreciate (and they’ll never notice!). From new dairy-free yogurts to grab-and-go waffles, scroll down for easy breakfast ideas for kids ideas that’ll become staples in your morning routine.

GoGo squeeZ Morning smoothieZ

Made with whole milk yogurt, fruit, and oats in portable, BPA-free squeeze pouches, these shelf-stable (no fridge required!) smoothies are an excellent source of calcium, too.

GoGo squeeZ Morning smoothieZ—Buy Here!

Evergreen Waffles

Evergreen

Eating healthy food should be delicious! Evergreen Waffles not only packs tons of nutrient but it's completely void of fillers. The frozen breakfast is made with 100 percent whole wheat, flavored by spices, nuts, vegetables and fruits and is free from refined sugar, dairy, or preservatives. Kids will love the current flavors: Peanut Butter & Banana, Zucchini & Carrot, Mixed Berry & Almond and Chocolate Chip & Matcha.

Evergreen Waffles—Buy Here!

Quaker Oats Dinosaur Eggs Instant Oatmeal

Amazon

Quaker Oats is getting creative, launching new flavors that kids won't be able to turn down. Every bowl of Dinosaur Eggs Oatmeal reveals hidden dino eggs as they stir!

Quaker Oats Dinosaur Eggs Instant Oatmeal—Buy Here!

Noosa Whole Milk Vanilla Bean Yogurt

Walmart

Picky eaters will love Noosa's Whole Milk Vanilla Bean Yogurt. Made with live and active cultures, kiddos can mix in fresh fruit, granola, or a little sprinkle of cinnamon to make it their own. Also a great lunchbox option!

Noosa Whole Milk Vanilla Bean Yogurt—Buy Here!

This Saves Lives GranolaPop

Amazon

Your kids will love starting off their morning routine with this option from This Saves Lives. The GranolaPop is perfect for snacking or breakfast with fun flavors like Rainbow Sprinkles, Chocolate and Cinnamon Sugar. You can feel good about serving these to your kids each morning as each serving contains a full serving of fruits and vegetables, and all flavors are totally safe-for-school. 

This Saves Lives GranolaPop—Buy Here!

Homestyle Breakfast Sandwiches from Brazi Bites

The first single-serve, gluten-free breakfast sandwich to hit the market, Brazi Bites' Homestyle Breakfast Sandwiches feature simple, clean ingredients like cage-free eggs and nitrate-free bacon, sandwiched between toasty slices of warm gluten-free bread for a delicious and satisfying homestyle taste that’s ready in minutes in the microwave! 

Homestyle Breakfast Sandwiches from Brazi Bites—Buy Here!

Oats Overnight

Who doesn't love breakfast on the go? Oats Overnight makes morning meal prep a breeze: just mix your packet with milk, store in the fridge and enjoy spoon-free in the morning. Each flavor is gluten free, made with 100% whole grain oats, 20 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber. Try out brand new flavors every month, in addition to classics like Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana, Strawberries & Cream and Mocha Dream.

Oats Overnight—Buy Here!

Catalina Crunch Cereals

No spoon or milk required! Delicious, low-carb cereals are made with the highest quality, all-natural ingredients available and contain a blend of seven Plant Proteins and Fibers that are designed to keep you full longer. Gluten- and grain-free, vegan, zero sugar, Non-GMO, and have 9g of fiber per serving. Choose from Fruity, Chocolate Peanut Butter, (newest flavors), and other delicious options you can snack on all day long. Kids will love these, and so will you!

Catalina Crunch Cereals—Buy Here!

KIND Granola

If you already love KIND products, you'll want to check out their granola! They're delicious, plus they're full of fiber and protein, so they'll be able to stay fueled all morning long.

KIND Granola—Buy Here!

Bear Naked Premium Protein Granola

As parents we’re always looking for healthy ways to add protein to our kids’ diets. Shake up your routine with Bear Naked Premium Protein Granola. Each serving dishes out 10 grams of protein. Choose from flavors including Oatmeal Cookie Crunch and Peanut Butter Toffee Crunch.

Bear Naked Premium Protein Granola—Buy Here!

AYO Almond Yogurt

Breakfast with an interesting story, anyone? Turn to AYO Yogurt—this Almond Yogurt is made from organic, sun-grown California almonds at the Billings family ranch, a fourth-generation family farm. Each yogurt is dairy-free and nutrient-rich with flavors that include blueberry, strawberry, vanilla and peach. Find AYO in health stores and if you’re in California they’re sold at Ralphs. 

AYO Almond Yogurt—Buy Here!

Siggi’s Plant-based [Non] Dairy Yogurts

We’re huge fans of siggi’s and were thrilled to learn that they recently launched a line of plant-based [Non] Dairy yogurts. Choose from five flavors: mango, mixed berry, vanilla and cinnamon, raspberry and strawberry. Like the original siggi’s their products include 40% less sugar than other leading yogurt alternatives and 3x more protein. For those allergic to dairy or are looking for a traditional yogurt alternative, we highly recommend this line (our kids were fans!).

Siggi’s Plant-based [Non] Dairy Yogurts—Buy Here!

gr8nola

Start your day with gr8nola—dish it out to little hands to practice hand/eye coordination or sprinkle on yogurt for the older kids. gr8nola features only 5 grams of non-refined sugar and all natural ingredients like organic coconut oil, whole grain oats, coconut flakes and sunflower seeds. The brand promises that all flavors (think: Black Coco Chia, Cinnamon Chai and Golden Spice) are GMO-free and contains no soy, dairy or refined sugars.

gr8nola—Buy Here!

—Erin Lem, Karly Wood, Kate Cartia

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Impress your kids and all the guests at your Halloween party with these spooky, delicious, and creative treats

If you’ve already sorted out your crew’s costumes and carved up your pumpkin, and you’ve still got time, how about crafting up a few easy Halloween treats? We’ve got all the goodies (and even Halloween-themed dinners) for kids you could ever want, from healthy(ish) picks to snacks inspired by creepy crawlers.

Cute Halloween Cat Treats

A black cat cookie with candy corn eyes
A Taste of Madness

Whole Wheat Black Cat Cookies. How cute are these kitty cookies from A Taste of Madness? You don’t need special cookie cutters to make them, and the kiddos can help top them off with adorable candy corn eyes. Using wheat flour helps make them a little more wholesome than your average dessert, too. 

Black Cat Oreo Treats.
These treats from Moments with Mandi are sure to impress your little ones—they’re (almost) too cute to eat. We love the wide eyes drawn on the chocolate candies and the chocolate chip “ears.” 

Classic Betty Crocker Black Cat.
Your kittens will go crazy for this delish cake from Betty Crocker. No fancy pans are required for this one—just round cake pans and a bit of clever cutting to make the cat shape. Topped off with licorice whiskers, it’ll be just as tasty as it looks.

Black Cat Cutout Cookies. For an easy but delicious treat, make these cutout cats from Cinnamon Girl. The recipe is pretty straightforward, and you can let your little sous chefs dot on watchful eyes once the cookies have cooled. 

Related: Easy Halloween Decorations You Can Make for About $5

Mummy-Themed Easy Halloween Treats

Madeleine cookies are decorated to look like mummies and Minions for Halloween treats
Sugar Bowl Bakery

Mummy Madeleines. These Madeleine Mummies and Minions look like you slaved away in the kitchen, but they're fuss free. Just put some white frosting in a piping bag with a cross-hatch tip, then make lines or zigzags before popping on some candy eyes and sprinkles. We tend to love these soft and fluffy traditional or pumpkin spice Madeleines from Sugar Bowl Bakery.

Mummified Oreos. How Does She serves up a spooktacular assortment of haunted treats, including to-die-for Mummy Oreo Suckers. And think about it: If you can make Oreos into something cute, what other cookies can you transform?

Halloweeño Jalapeño Popper Mummies
. If you’re a fan of spice, this hot idea from The Hopeless Housewife is sure to startle your taste buds. Terrifyingly simple to bake, these Jalapeño Popper Mummies make a great savory appetizer for your Halloween bash.

Mummy Pretzels. This salty, sweet, and spooky treat is scarily simple to make. The most difficult step according to Simply Being Mommy is waiting for the chocolate to cool and harden before eating!

Witch-Inspired Halloween Treats

Decorated chocolate kisses sit on top of Oreos to create the Halloween treat Witch Hat Cookies
Princess Pinky Girl

Witch Hat Cookies. This super easy recipe from Princess Pinky Girl results in adorable witch hat treats in no time flat. Gather up Oreos and chocolate kisses plus a few other ingredients for this party-ready dessert.  

Witch Guacamole Dip. Bright green guacamole glows from underneath a tortilla chip hat in Spicy Southern Kitchen’s Witch Guacamole.  Mash up some avocados or grab your fave store-bought guac as the base for this healthy Halloween treat. 

Butterscotch Brooms.
Every witch needs her broom, so you’ve got to whip up some cute broomsticks inspired by From Calculus to Cupcakes. They’re super quick to throw together, and they hit the perfect balance between sweet and savory.

Deathly Chocolate Graveyard Cakes. We think this spooktastic dessert from Half Baked Harvest is genius. With gravestones made out of brownies and witch legs made out of rolled wafer cookies, decorating them is half the fun. 

Easy Halloween Treats That Aren’t Too Sugary

Low-sugar pumpkin mousse sits in a bowl
Super Healthy Kids

Mousse Made Easy. Looking for a kid-approved party dessert that won’t scare away adults? Like a light, fluffy piece of pumpkin pie without the crust, this pumpkin mousse from Super Healthy Kids uses only six simple ingredients. Prep it in advance and make the most of your time with guests. 

Awesome Apple Cupcakes. Love the taste of old-fashioned Halloween treats? Take a trip down memory lane with luscious fall flavors of apple and cinnamon. These beautiful cupcakes from Sarah Bakes Gluten Free will remind you of the sweet caramel apples of your youth without too much of the sticky stuff.

Not-So-Basic Bark. Turn after-school grumps into giggly ghouls with this super-cute candy bark from Fork and Beans. Vegan and gluten-free with no icky preservatives, you’ll love getting your (somewhat healthy) chocolate fix. It’ll take a few steps to get to the finished product, but we promise this bark will make you want to take a big bite. 

 

(Sort of) Nutritious Halloween Treats

Mini monster sandwiches topped with olive eyes
My Own Road

Monster Sandwiches. What's a monster mash without monster sandwiches? This idea from My Own Road is an easy way to ensure that there's hearty food on your Halloween menu—you know, before the giant sugar rush. Plus, it's a cinch to customize these mini monster sandwiches with your fam's fave deli meat and fillings.

Halloween-Themed Sushi Balls. These adorable Halloween-themed sushi balls from Chopstick Chronicles are fairly easy to make, and you can change up the ingredients according to your little monster's palate. Put a bunch together as a main dish or spread them around as creepy little sides.

Frozen BOO-nana Ghosts. These ghost-shaped boo-nana popsicles are a fun treat the kids will love making as much as eating. Erin Clarke at Well Plated takes the healthy route and dips the banana shapes into vanilla yogurt rather than white chocolate—and you can turn these treats into mummies with a bit of peanut butter, caramel or nut butter, and coconut sugar.

Hooting Owls. Not as spooky as ghosts and gravestones but how can you resist these delicious Halloween owls? Spread peanut butter or cream cheese on crackers and add sliced and whole almonds for this nocturnal nibble from Charity Mathews at Foodlets.

Related: 30 Perfectly Spooky Halloween Books to Read This Year

Creepy, Crawly Treats

Bakerella

Spider Cake Pops. One bite of these creepy crawly cake pops and you might understand why the old lady swallowed the spider. Wriggle over to Bakerella to learn to make these eerily delicious arachnids. Hint: The placement is all about timing.

Dirt and Worms Pudding Cups. We dig this easy-to-make dessert from Like Mother Like Daughter. Great for serving the kids at your Halloween party, they’re also fun for spring and Earth Day, too.

Creepy Corn Dog Centipedes. Hungry Happenings transformed ordinary mini corn dogs into a Halloween centipede, complete with ketchup eyes. If your kids like creepy crawlers and enjoy playing with their food, this might be the snack for you.

Jello Worms. Mel’s Kitchen Cafe used straws and a package of gelatin to make this squirmy Halloween treat. While they might gross out older ghosts, these squiggly creatures are sure to be a hit with your little goblins, and they’re super easy to make.

Kooky Halloween Monster Treats

These Halloween treats are chocolate monster cookies with candy googly eyes, chewy chocolate chip cookies, and chocolate ganache.
Self Proclaimed Foodie

Chocolate Monster Cookies. We’d welcome these monster cookies from Self Proclaimed Foodie to any Halloween party. The secret lies in the edible googly eyes—but don’t forget the perfect chocolate chip cookies and chocolate ganache.

S’more Monsters. What’s better than s’mores? S’mores that look like monsters! You won’t need a campfire to create this delicious Halloween-themed treat from Jodi Levine over at Say Yes, but you will need cookies, marshmallows, and little helping hands.

Dangerous Donuts. Donuts get a monstrous makeover with this snack from A Spicy Perspective that the little ones will go crazy for. Either make ahead for your guests or lay out the supplies and let the kids take creative control. You’ll need some plastic vampire fangs, sprinkles, and you guessed it… candy eyes.

Chocolate Monster Pops. You’ll have plenty of little monsters gathering around a batch of these chocolate Frankensteins from Handmade Charlotte. The supplies include basic baking stuff: chocolate bars, coconut, and icing. We are especially zinging with delight over the Hershey Kiss neck bolts. 

Related: 36 Halloween Movies That Aren’t Too Scary for Kids

Ghost-Inspired Treats

Sugar Bowl Bakery

Brownie Bites with Fondant Ghosts. Need a last-minute Halloween treat? We love these adorable desserts from Sugar Bowl Bakery that use store-bought brownie bites and small pieces of fondant to create the perfect, non-scary ghost friend.

3-Ingredient Easy Ghost Cookies. The only thing scary about these cookies from Butter with a Side of Bread is how easy they are to make. All you need are Milano cookies, white chocolate, and small chocolate chips to whip up these friendly, Casper-style sweets.

Ghosts in the Graveyard Dessert Shooters. Don't worry, these alcohol-free treats from Sugarspun Run are for everyone! Think OREO dirt cup with a marshmallow ghost that is fun and easy to make.

Frightfully Easy Halloween Cupcake Treats

Easy to make RIP cupcakes with chocolate wafers, pumpkin shaped candy corn, vanilla wafers and chocolate frosting.
Christal Yuen

Ghoulish Graveyard. What you'll need: crumbled chocolate wafers, pumpkin-shaped candy corn, vanilla wafers, and chocolate frosting. What to do: After covering the chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting, crush chocolate wafers and sprinkle them over the frosting as "dirt." Set a pumpkin-shaped candy corn on top and write "RIP" on the vanilla wafer before planting it in the "graveyard."

Wicked Witch. What you'll need: green icing, one straw cut in half, and gum drops. What to do: Frost your cupcake in plenty of bright green frosting. Snip your straw in half, and slice a red gum drop down the center, so you have two identical halves (and a pair of ruby slippers). Stick one to each end of the straws and lay the "legs" on your serving platter. Now lay your cupcake house upside down on top of the legs. We can almost hear Dorothy trotting away in glee. 

Not-So-Scary Mummy. What you'll need: Mini M&Ms and white frosting. What to do: Using a piping bag (either store-bought or DIY), place lines across your cupcake to form your mummy's bandages and then two affix candy eyes.

Caught in a Spiderweb. What you'll need: White frosting and black gel icing. What to do: After frosting the cupcake in white, use your gel icing to make three concentric circles on top. Take a toothpick and, starting in the center, drag the toothpick through the icing to the edge (imagine slicing a pizza) to create the spooky spiderweb effect.

These DIY sensory activities help babies and toddlers experience the magic of the fall season

Introduce the sounds, smells, and tastes of autumn with easy DIY fall sensory activities using items found around the house. From apple-scented cloud dough to a sweet fall sensory bin, you’ll find lots of ways to play that stimulate the senses and the imagination. Stay close by and supervise young children to avoid choking hazards.

Autumn-Spiced Play Dough with Whole Spices

fall sensory bin with play dough
Mama. Papa. Bubba.

This play dough is a treat for your child's sense of touch and smell, thanks to the addition of autumnal spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Add some cinnamon sticks, anise stars, and other whole spices (but avoid those that may pose choking hazards until your child is older). The spices add texture to the activity and give your child something to push into the dough. This is a fall sensory bin older kids will love to participate in as well. Get the recipe at Mama. Papa. Bubba.

Apple Foam Sensory Bin

Apple foam fall sensory bin is a fun fall sensory activity
Toddler Approved

Squeeze bottles, sponges, tear-free bubble bath solution, and the season's delicious apples are all you need for this fun, foamy fall sensory activity from Toddler Approved. To keep things clean, lay down a towel or vinyl tablecloth first, or head outside if the weather is nice. Keep the apples you use for other autumn activities, or choose plastic apples or pumpkins if you'd rather use your apples for snacking on. 

Boo Bath

Growing a Jeweled Rose

Scare up some bath-time fun for your little boo! Shaving cream makes perfectly puffy ghosts that glide over dark-colored water in this fun activity. Don’t worry about the tub or your tot staying food-colored; it washes away when playtime is over. Get the DIY from Growing a Jeweled Rose.

Fall Sensory Soup

And Next Comes L

The rich colors of fall shine bright in this fall sensory bin. Choose orange or red food coloring for the water and add acrylic leaves and kitchen utensils for your child to play with. Baby will delight in scooping, pouring, and splashing. Find out how to make this from And Next Comes L.

 

Related: The BIGGEST (& Best) List of Fall Crafts, Ever

Slimy Spaghetti

Fall sensory activity using spaghetti
Hands On As We Grow

Slippery spaghetti is fascinating for babies, and an inexpensive toy as well. Add autumn-themed food coloring, a cauldron (a bucket or large cup), and plastic spoons, and watch your little witch or wizard conjure up fun. Jamie at Hands On As We Grow suggests adding a dollop of oil to the noodles to up the slime factor.

Squishy Squashes

a little girl discovering pumpkins, which is a fun fall sensory activity
Shutterstock

Squash, pumpkins and gourds offer your baby a cornucopia of colors, textures and shapes to explore, way before you get to any pumpkin carving. Fill a small bowl with them and top with a towel to let your child discover these autumn treasures. Then cut one open and scoop out some gooey insides for your child to squish, removing any choking hazards like pumpkin seeds.

Apple-Scented Cloud Dough

apple cloud dough is a fun fall sensory activity
Growing a Jeweled Rose

As sweet as mom’s apple pie, this scented fall sensory bin will spice up playtime for babies. The cloud dough is made from a simple recipe of flour, vegetable oil, and apple pie spice, so it’s non-toxic if nibbled. Throw in some apple-shaped foam pieces, scoopers, and muffin tins for more small motor skills. If you don’t have any apple spice handy, Growing a Jeweled Rose recommends cinnamon.

Edible Eyeballs

edible eyeballs are a fun fall sensory activity
Fun at Home with Kids

Squishy, slimy eyeballs are fun to poke and smash on Halloween or any other autumn day. They’re made from gelatin, food coloring, raisins, and cooking oil, so they're edible if baby takes a bite, and they don’t pose a choking hazard. Head to Fun At Home With Kids for instructions on how to make them.

DIY Blackberry Play Dough

Rainy Day Mum

If you're looking for a break from apple and pumpkin-spiced everything, this blackberry playdough is completely non-toxic and has a luscious color and scent, thanks to the inclusion of real blackberries in the dough. Your baby can even help you squish the berries to make it. Rainy Day Mum shares the steps and all the tools you’ll need.

Leafy Adventures

looking at leaves is a fun fall sensory activity for toddlers
iStock

Nature creates its own sensory play activity for us with fallen leaves in stunning autumn colors. Take a walk outside with your child to look at the different colors and shapes, feel the brittle texture, and listen to the crunching under your feet. Bring a bucket to collect some leaves and make a pile for playing in.

 

Find your favorite pumpkin recipes for the fall season

Pumpkin isn’t just for lattes—at this time of year, we love incorporating the humble fruit (yes, fruit!) into as many different recipes as we can, from savory pumpkin recipes like cheesy pasta dishes to indulgent desserts and even healthy pumpkin pie. As long as you’re in the holiday spirit, you may want to bookmark some Halloween-themed dinner ideas as well as easy Halloween treats. And on nights when you’re in the mood for some good eats but want to do minimal work, check out these killer CrockPot recipes or make a beeline for the pumpkin offerings at Trader Joe’s

Sweet Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Truffles

If you’re looking for something sweet and pumpkin-y, look no further! These pumpkin truffles are a delicious treat.

Iced Pumpkin Spiced Latte

pumpkin recipes
Boulder Locavore

Make your own PSL at home this year! We love this simple recipe from Boulder Locavore. The trick to getting a good mix is to use cold brew.

Pumpkin Pudding Cakes

Warm Pumpkin Cake is a sweet pumpkin recipe
The View from Great Island

If you and your crew like pumpkin pie then you'll love these warm pumpkin pudding cakes from The View from Great Island. Topped with pecans and whipped cream, these mini soufflés are a great way to branch out from your go-to pumpkin pie this holiday season.

Pumpkin Butter

pumpkin recipes
Koti Beth

For the true pumpkin-heads out there, pumpkin butter is a dream come true. This version from Koti Beth is made with pumpkin puree, a little sweetener and spices, and tastes great spread on toast, swirled into yogurt or oatmeal, or dolloped on top of pancakes or ice cream. It also makes for a delicious edible gift around the holidays.

Related: Pumpkin It Up with These Baby-Friendly Recipes

Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip

Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip
Erhardts Eat

Cheesecake meets pumpkin in this genius (and super easy) recipe from Erhardts Eat. Once the dip is whipped together, your whole crew can go to town dipping sliced apples, cookies, pretzels, and graham crackers.

Vegan Pumpkin Brownies

Rhian’s Recipes

For a little something different, try these delish vegan brownies from Rhian’s Recipes. They’re naturally sweetened with dates and are gluten-free for sensitive tummies.

No-Churn Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream

pumpkin recipes
Under the Willow Tree

Pumpkin bliss is just a few hours away, thanks to this recipe from Under the Willow Tree. It’s even vegan, so all you’ll need is a can of coconut milk, pumpkin puree, and a few spices from your pantry.

The Best Pumpkin Bars

Oh My Goodness Chocolate Desserts

Ring in the season by making these amazing pumpkin bars from Oh My Goodness Chocolate Desserts. The bars are topped with a sweetened cream cheese mixture—delish!

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

pumpkin bread
Kristine via Kristine's Kitchen

When you've had your fair share (and then some) of homemade banana bread, and you want to switch things up, check out Kristine's Kitchen for her awesome pumpkin bread recipe! The best part? It's sneakily healthy!

Related: Simple Pumpkin Crafts You Can Do with the Kids

Pumpkin-Spiced Oatmeal

pumpkin recipes
Damn Delicious

You can’t beat a bowl of old-fashioned oats to fill hungry tummies on a crisp fall morning. This recipe from Damn Delicious will remind you how quick and easy oatmeal can be. Set toppings out the night before on the kitchen countertop and watch the breakfast magic begin as your little ones fill up on healthy fiber with a pumpkin kick.

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

Dishing Delish

If you’ve got any leftover canned pumpkin on your hands, this smoothie recipe from Dishing Delish is the perfect way to use it. It’s the next best thing to having a slice of pumpkin pie for breakfast.

Pumpkin Nutella Cookie Bars

Crazy for Crust

Haven't tried the pumpkin and chocolate combo craze yet? Go! Get in the kitchen ... now! We promise you'll be stuck on these Pumpkin Nutella Cookie Bars from Crazy for Crust this fall. Serve 'em warm and ooey-gooey with a tall glass of milk. 

Pumpkin Blondies

Friday Is Cake Night

We can’t resist a blondie, and this pumpkin version from Friday Is Cake Night is sure to be an instant hit with your crew. The one-bowl recipe is a breeze to make, and you can round up the kids to do the mixing.

Pumpkin Peanut Butter Cups

pumpkin recipes
Anya’s Eats

This fun twist on the classic from Anya’s Eats is surprisingly easy to make. And with a mix of almond butter, pumpkin, and spices, it’s perfect for fall.

Pumpkin Pancakes

No. 2 Pencil

Everyone deserves dessert for breakfast sometimes! The yummy combo of pumpkin, cinnamon, and icing will transform Saturday morning into a celebration. Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Pancakes from Number 2 Pencil with warm maple syrup or drizzled cream cheese glaze. Yum!

Related: This Viral Pumpkin Carving Hack Might Just Change Your Life

Pumpkin Pie Pudding

My Life Cookbook

For an after-school snack that satisfies a sweet tooth without being unhealthy, you’ve got to try this pumpkin pie pudding from My Life Cookbook. It comes together in the blender in less than 10 minutes and tastes great topped with coconut cream or whipped cream.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin muffins are a sweet pumpkin recipe
Bitz N Giggles

These yummy muffins from Sara at Bitz N Giggles are pulling double duty: you can enjoy them for breakfast or dessert! (Or both, we won't tell.)

Savory Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Beef Bolognese

Beef Bolognese is usually a crowd-pleasure, and the addition of fall’s favorite squash gives it something special. Get the recipe from Serving Dumplings.

Pumpkin Bolani

If you’re familiar with Afghan food (and if you’re not, we recommend trying it ASAP), then you’re probably a fan of Bolani, a flatbread stuffed with yummy combinations usually served as an appetizer. This version comes with a savory pumpkin spread on the inside, and it’s recommended you serve it with a dipping yogurt. Get the recipe from Herat Kitchen, and be on the lookout for shortcuts!

Chicken Bacon Pumpkin Pasta Bake

Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake, a savory pumpkin recipe
Pinch of Yum

Sunday dinner, here we come! This pasta bake from Pinch of Yum is filled with caramelized onions, plenty of pumpkin, and a healthy sprinkling of cheese. It’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds.

An Autumnal Pasta

Cooktoria

This awesome pasta dish from Cooktoria is sure to be an instant hit with your crew, thanks to its delicious sauce made with pumpkin, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. If your kids aren’t into mushrooms, you can sub in Italian sausage.

Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

pumpkin mac and cheese is savory pumpkin recipe
Life Made Sweeter

We’ve discovered the ultimate in comfort food, thanks to Life Made Sweeter. This pumpkin macaroni and cheese is perfect for chilly fall nights, and it comes together in less than 30 minutes. 

Related: 22 Things To Do with Pumpkins After Halloween

Pumpkin Coconut Soup

pumpkin recipes
Jade Aucamp on Unsplash

Let the kids help make this tasty Caribbean-inspired soup from Stir It Up by Ramin Ganeshram. It’s easy to throw together using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

pumpkin recipes
Anshu A on Unsplash

After you carve your pumpkins, don’t throw out the seeds! It’s so easy to make roasted pumpkin seeds, and they’re sure to be a family favorite, whether they’re sprinkled on a salad or packed in lunches.

Pumpkin Chili

slow cooker pumpkin chili is a savory pumpkin recipe
Tatertots & Jello

This award-winning chili from Tatertots & Jello has a hint of pumpkin sweetness that sings in your mouth. Just brown the meat and onions, dump the ingredients in the slow cooker, and voila! Dinner is done! Try milder spices to please budding taste buds, or make this one when hosting. Football and chili anyone?

Pumpkin Alfredo Ravioli

Pumpkin Alfredo Ravioli is a savory pumpkin recipe
Taste and Tell

Start with a package of frozen ravioli. Stir together a few simple ingredients to make a decadent sauce. The smooth, rich flavors of this ravioli with pumpkin alfredo from Taste and Tell come together so quickly that you'll wish you'd invited company over for dinner.

 

Step up your packaged snack game with yummy fruit rolls, cinnamon granola bars, and more

You’d be hard-pressed to find a parent who isn’t a fan of Costco snacks, especially one who makes school lunches every day (they don’t warn you about that in baby classes!). In recent years, Costco has become the go-to place for healthy snacks in bulk. Need some shelf-stable lunch box options? Check! How about energizing, convenient goodies for after soccer practice? Check!

As a pediatric dietitian, I’m always on the hunt for snacks with simple ingredients and minimal amounts of processed sugar. Luckily, Costco carries a variety of nutritious packaged options that fit the bill (some containing nuts, so be sure to skip these if schools or extracurriculars prohibit them). Here are some of my favorites.

Great Packaged Costco Snacks for Kids

That’s It Mini Fruit Bars

A Costco bag of That's It mini fruit bars in Strawberry, Mango and Blueberry flavors for a story on packaged Costco snacks
Costco

These dried fruit bars have only two ingredients (dried fruit!) and zero added sugar. Pair them with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a balanced, energizing, and tasty snack.
That’s It Mini Fruit Bars ($15.99)—Buy Here!

Kirkland Organic Applesauce Pouches

A box of 24 packets of Kirkland organic apple sauce with one packet standing on top of the box for a story on packaged Costco snacks
Costco

Do your kids always come home from school with a cold? You’re in luck! Apples are an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system. What’s more, these pouches are a convenient and shelf-stable travel snack, easy to keep in your purse or diaper bag.
Kirkland Organic Applesauce Pouches ($12.99)—Buy Here!

 

Quinn Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets

Eight snack bags of Quinn creamy peanut butter filled pretzel nuggets for a story on packaged Costco snacks for kids
Costco

These gluten-free pretzels are filled with creamy peanut butter and have minimal added sugar. Each individually wrapped bag contains 3 grams of protein per serving, making them an easy, filling and satisfying choice.
Quinn Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets ($44.99)—Buy Here!

Autumn’s Gold Granola Bars

A box of 16 Autumn's Gold grain free granola bars for a story on packaged Costco snacks for kids
Costco

Sweetened with maple syrup and honey, this nut-based bar is jam-packed with protein and fat so that it’s as tasty as it is satiating. And if your kid could use a little boost of nutrition, this nutrient-dense snack will do the trick.
Autumn’s Gold Granola Bars ($23.99)—Buy Here!

Kirkland Signature Variety Snacking Nuts

Three snack-sized packages of Kirkland nuts—peanuts, almonds and cashews—for a story on packaged Costco snacks for kids
Costco

Peanuts, almonds, and cashews, oh my! These individually packaged nuts are a healthy source of protein and fat. For an energizing snack that’s sure to fuel your kiddos, nuts pair well with fresh fruit and Greek yogurt. Just remember not to give whole nuts to kids under 4 as they pose a choking risk for littles.
Kirkland Signature Variety Snacking Nuts ($16.99)—Buy Here!

Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers

A box of Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers for a story on packaged Costco snacks for kids
Costco

They’re crunchy, slightly salty, and delicious–everything you want in a cracker! With 8g of healthy fat and 3g of protein per serving, throw a few handfuls into a reusable snack bag and you're sure to satisfy any hangry child.
Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers ($12.99)—Buy Here!

BEAR Fruit Rolls

A box of 48 BEAR fruit rolls snacks for kids in strawberry, raspberry and mango for a story on packaged Costco snacks
BEAR Snacks

Aren’t all kids obsessed with snacks you can unfurl? Made from dried fruits and black carrot extract, these fruit rolls contain no added sugar and have a similar texture to fruit leather.
BEAR Fruit Rolls ($9.99)—Buy Here!

Sun-Maid Raisins

A large box of Sun-Maid Raisins for a story on packaged Costco snacks for kids
Costco

These naturally-sweetened dried grapes are perfect for lunchboxes! Not only are raisins rich in fiber and antioxidants but they contain brain-supporting iron, too.
Sun-Maid Raisins ($12.49)—Buy here!
 

Cheerios

A double box of Cheerios for a story on packaged Costco snacks for kids
Costco

Did you know that Cheerios are an excellent source of iron? This whole-grain snack contains more than 12 mg of iron per serving! Served with Greek yogurt or milk, Cheerios make a great snack or breakfast.
Cheerios ($9.99)—Buy here!

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