Fill them up with these tasty meals that aren’t chicken nuggets

Protein-packed meals and picky eaters don’t always go hand-in-hand. If your little one gags at anything but buttered noodles and you’re wondering where they’ll get their high-protein foods from, we have recipes and high-protein foods for picky eaters that kids will actually eat (especially if you adjust these ideas to their taste). From yummy breakfast shakes to easy dinner ideas, keep reading to find your new secret weapon.

High-Protein Breakfast Foods for Picky Eaters

Peanut Butter Cup Protein Shake

peanut butter cup shake is a good high-protein food for picky eaters
Chelsea's Messy Apron

What kiddo says no to a peanut butter cup shake? None that we've met. This is a high-protein packed shake that's perfect for busy mornings, and especially for tweens who have a hard time eating breakfast. Get the recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron

Soft Boiled Eggs and Soldiers

a soft-boiled egg is a good high-protein food for picky eaters
Eat Live Run

Soft-boiled eggs are ready in five minutes, and when paired with buttered sticks of toast (soldiers) which the kids can dunk in the runny yolk, they're as fun as they are convenient. Head to Eat Live Run for tips and tricks on how to boil the perfect egg.

Peanut Butter Waffles with Peanut Butter Syrup

Creations by Kara

Having waffles for breakfast? Skip the regular syrup and whip up this delicious peanut butter syrup for a perfect high-protein food for picky eaters. Plus add a double dose of protein with this scrumptious peanut butter waffle recipe written out at Creations by Kara.

Chocolate Chip Banana Protein Muffins

Picky eaters will be so excited about the chocolate chip muffin aspect that they won’t even notice the protein powder you add to the mix. These are a great on-the-go breakfast option!

High-Protein Foods for Picky Eaters Perfect for Lunch

Pizzadillas

Pizzadillas are a good high protein snack for picky eaters
The Seasoned Mom

Simple, easy-to-make, and pleasing to pint-sized taste buds—pizzadillas. It's the perfect combo pizza, and quesadilla all wrapped up. Blair over at The Seasoned Mom serves this savory dish with dipping sauce. 

Chicken Satay

Skewered food often works for picky eaters, perhaps because there’s something of the lollipop about it. With this chicken satay dish from Eat Yourself Skinny, you get double the dose of protein from the chicken and the peanut sauce.

Power Protein Bowls

Liz's Healthy Table

Choose-your-own-adventure meets the dinner table with this build-your-own-bowl idea from Liz's Healthy Table. All the choices are healthy with a choice of ready-to-eat teriyaki tofu, egg, edamame, bell pepper, and sugar snap peas. When kids get control over what goes on their plates, they might even be a little braver when tasting new foods.

High-Protein Meals for Picky Eaters to Add to Your Dinner Recipe Rotation

Healthy Chicken Meatballs

chicken meatballs are a good high-protein food for picky eaters
Yummy Toddler Food

Yummy Toddler Food knows the challenges of getting little ones to eat something that'll fill their bellies! This four-ingredient recipe for chicken meatballs will be a crowd-pleaser, and they're super easy to whip up. Get the recipe from Yummy Toddler Food

Classic Carbonara

Scrummy Lane

A classic carbonara has no cream and no heavy sauce because the eggs do all the work, making it both light and decadent at the same time. This recipe from Scrummy Lane gives lots of tips on how to make the perfect carbonara.

Teriyaki Pineapple Salmon

salmon is a good high-protein food for picky eaters
Unicorns in the Kitchen

Aloha! Little eaters love sweet foods. So serve up salmon with teriyaki sauce and grilled pineapple. Even more, the meaty salmon texture tastes good in little mouths. Unicorns in the Kitchen gives us this easy 30-minute recipe that your half-pints will eat up (keep the pineapple for yourself!). 

Homemade Hamburger Helper

Instant pot hamburger helper
A Mind Full Mom

If your picky eater is hankering for something savory then this 30-minute instant pot hamburger helper packs in the protein. Stir in cheese when this delicious dish is ready to get your little one to eat up. If you don't have an instant pot, go here for the stove-top version.

Sweet and Savory Chicken Stir Fry

Honey Garlic Chicken stir fry
Get Inspired Every Day

Putting veg on the side of a simple rice dish allows kids to know exactly what they're eating and sometimes a suspicious ingredient is all it takes for a point-blank refusal to eat. This stir-fry recipe from our archives is a mix of sweet and savory flavors that's easy to prepare—just mince the onion small or omit it altogether. 

Chili Con Carne for Kids

chili con carne for kids is a good high-protein meal for picky eaters
My Fussy Eater

Warm up your household with this mild chile con carne made just for kids. The best part besides the 18 grams of protein per serving is the four veggies in this delightful dish. Find the recipe at My Fussy Eater.

Orange Chicken

Sweet and savory is always a good combo, and this orange chicken recipe from Kitchen Sanctuary fits the description. This is a high protein-packed meal we’re sure will make picky eaters will rejoice.

Simple Homemade Fish Sticks

homemade fish sticks are a good high-protein food for picky eaters
Super Healthy Kids

Little diners will get hooked on these crunchy fish sticks from Super Healthy Kids. You'll be glad to know the breading has a secret ingredient—flax seeds—so these fish sticks are not only high in protein, but the crunchy outside and mild softer inside make them easy to gobble up. 

Homemade Spaghettios and Meatballs

Shugary Sweets

A childhood favorite that's made up fresh? Sign us up! With 34 grams of protein per serving, this spaghetti and meatballs recipe from Shugary Sweets is perfect for picky eaters. She uses turkey meatballs to lighten up the dish. Add in a veggie, like carrots, with dipping sauce as a side dish.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Dinner at the Zoo

When kids can get creative with their food at the table, they start seeing it as something other than "yucky." This chicken taco filling is the starting point for dinnertime creativity—add in other taco toppings like cheese, fresh tomato, avocado and lettuce, and those picky eaters might just surprise you! Head to Dinner At The Zoo for the recipe.

Deconstructed Soba Noodle Soup

Feed Them Wisely

Don't let the picture put you off—plenty of picky eaters wouldn't go near a soup with the ingredients all mushed in together but Meredith at Feed Them Wisely says this delicious ginger coconut chicken soup can be deconstructed and all the ingredients served separately. While the soup option works for adults, kids get to taste the same flavors (and protein-packed soba noodles), just with a tweaked presentation—genius!

Butternut Squash Mac 'N' Cheese

A Sweet Pea Chef

Sneaking veggies into a mac and cheese is super tempting as a parent and this recipe from A Sweet Pea Chef contains butternut squash and extra protein from Greek yogurt and parmesan cheese. This take on an old favorite can be prepped ahead of time and either stored in the refrigerator or frozen until ready to bake.

 

If your time on the ‘gram is limited thanks to all that momming, these are the accounts you’ll want to follow. So many smart mamas (medical experts and mom influencers) share advice on baby sleep, feeding kids, body positivity, fitness, fashion and kid-friendly fun during pregnancy and into new motherhood. In our humble opinion, these are the best new mom Instagram accounts offering a healthy dose of humor, relatability and new-mom support, which is exactly what we’re craving right now.

Once you get your Instagram stacked, subscribe to these pregnancy and parenting podcasts.

 

Taking Cara Babies

Cara is a neonatal nurse and certified pediatric sleep consultant who's married to a pediatrician and a mom to four kids. She offers amazing advice on baby sleep with "the science of a nurse and the heart of a mama." Follow for genius advice and lots of laughs from a mom who truly gets it.

The Birds Papaya

Mom of four, writer and speaker Sarah Nicole Landry is the body-confidence advocate and positive, powerful voice we all need in our lives and our social media. She shares it all on her Insta, from disordered eating and divorce to blended families and how to love your body.

Mommy Labor Nurse

The labor and delivery nurse (and mom of two) behind the Mommy Labor Nurse podcast wants to help people have a better birth experience. She shares important info on pregnancy, childbirth and babies along with a healthy dose of hilarious and all-too-relatable memes and quotes. So much good info saved in the highlights too, so don't miss those stories.

 

Kids Eat in Color

For great tips on how to encourage kids to eat healthy foods, and how to stop stressing over what they eat, you need to follow Kids Eat in Color. Jennifer Anderson is a registered dietician nutritionist with a Master of Science in Public Health, and she's also a mom of young kids, so she both gets it and knows how to make it better!

Rookie Moms

From the best postpartum underwear to foods for teething toddlers, Rookie Moms is the mom Instagram account to follow for the practical advice we all need. This feed is filled with #momhacks for the rookies in all of us.

Foster the Family

If you've adopted or fostered a child, or are thinking about it, finding support and encouragement online is a must. Foster the Family's Instagram account offers its audience a constant flow of information and resources on foster care, gospel-centered parenting and mission-focused family. For some children, foster care is a life-saving experience and this 'gram account helps you share in that experience.

Tiffany Darlyn

You may recognize Tiffany Davidson from her popular beauty videos on YouTube, where she also goes by the name Tiffany Darlyn. But on Instagram, she showcases her beautiful family and wise words about mom life, kids, home improvement, travel and much more. 

Shalice Noel

Instagram sensation Shalice Noel has five (yes, five!) kids. But her feed isn't just about managing a family of seven, it includes tips on fashion, home decor, travel and more. She offers how-to videos on how to style everything from your living room to your travel outfit. Shalice has a knack for seeing and sharing all the positives life has to offer.

Mother.ly

The Mother.ly community was born to send expert ideas and mom-to-mom inspiration to women exactly when we need it. This uplifting, online community full of expert tricks of the trade and inspiring stories are exactly what first-time moms should be scrolling through.

Style Fit Fatty

On her Instagram account, Fatima Dedrickson focuses on relationships, fitness, lifestyle, self-care and family. She's also the queen of couples challenges and of getting followers to share hilarious, juicy, relatable stories about their own lives. Trust us, you don't want to miss those.

Something Navy

Arielle Charnas, the New York City-based founder of style blog Something Navy, has been entertaining her followers with fashion advice and editorial content for more than a decade. Now mom to two toddlers, Ruby and Esme, she dedicates space on her Insta to topics like kid-friendly meals and mom life. Follow for a laugh and a behind-the-scenes look at a style icon who feels more like a bestie than an insta-star.

Pregnant Chicken

Pregnant Chicken is the OG mom Instagram account of laugh-out-loud funny spaces for moms-to-be. Amy Morrison, who refers to herself as "the broad behind the burd," built her community on bringing humor to the world of parenting. She keeps it honest and recognizes that it really does take a village and we can all appreciate that.

Ginger Parrish

Boy mom of three, self-proclaimed hat addict and inspiration to moms everywhere, Ginger Parrish prides herself on making lemonade out of lemons. Her bright Instagram account is a breath of fresh air.

Yummy Toddler Food

Amy Palanjian is a recipe developer dedicated to helping kids (and families) eat well without spending all their time in the kitchen. Her easy recipes and realistic cooking advice make this an account that makes you feel good while helping you eat better. And what's more yummy than that?

Happy Toddler Playtime

If you're trying to entertain toddlers and need endless inspiration, check out mom of three Mandisa's Instagram feed. She offers tips for sensory bins, crafts and early learning, along with tons of daily ideas on how to keep little ones engaged and happy.

Juna Moms

Started by a mom in search of tools she needed while navigating two back-to-back pregnancies of her own, Juna Moms is a multi-faceted community. You can find work-out, nutrition and self-care solutions for every stage of your pregnancy and postpartum on their Instagram page, as well as prenatal and postpartum workouts on the Juna - Pregnancy Exercise app, sage advice from interviews with experts on their podcast and an online space dedicated to women supporting each other on their blog.

RELATED: 10 Pregnancy & Parenting Podcasts to Start Listening to Now

 

We’ve got your packing list, must-visit stops, where to purchase forgotten diapers, and so much more

If you are eager to go to Disneyland with a baby or toddler, but overwhelmed by the logistics of how to do it, we’ve got just the recommendations for you. We chatted with Allison Mertzman (aka Adventures with Allison Wonderland), Disney Vacation Planner and owner of an “Earmarked” agency, and got all her tips for what to bring, where to go when your kids need a break, how to maximize your time in the parks, and so much more. While these tips are specific to families looking to bring toddlers (and babies) to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, most of them would help any family making a visit to the parks.

Is it worth it to go to Disneyland with a baby or toddler?

Allison says it definitely is. (We see where you’re coming from, Allison!) Kids are free until they turn three years old so you don’t have to worry about a ticket for them. By the time your little one is two, they likely can recognize characters like Mickey Mouse and the Disney princesses and will love the magic that Disney brings. In addition, Disney has done a great job making it a multi-generational destination for everyone from 0-99 so, yes, bring your little one along!

What are the best Disneyland attractions for toddlers?

Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort

Here are Allison’s Disneyland recommendations for this age: 

  • Top pick: Allison raves about Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room for families as it is quieter than other areas of the park, there is A/C, you don’t usually have to wait too long, and best of all, you can bring your own food! Plus, most of the action is overhead so kids can easily see.
  • Anything in Fantasyland
  • Mickey’s Toontown. This part of the park just re-0pened after a massive renovation (more details on Mickey’s Toontown below). Toddlers love seeing Mickey and Minnie and riding Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
  • Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh are great rides for this age.
  • It’s currently under renovation, but the Adventureland Treehouse is a top pick for little ones.
  • Don’t miss the Magic Happens Parade!
  • What about the Haunted Mansion? Allison says that if you start them early, kids will know what to expect and won’t be afraid.

What to expect from the new, re-imagined Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland

tips for taking a toddler to disneyland
Disneyland Resort

For 30 years, Mickey’s Toontown has been delighting kids and adults alike—and recently received its own renovation as part of the park’s centennial celebration. Check out the highlights below—from interactive play areas like CenToonial Park to toddler-friendly amusement rides, it’s the must-go spot for anyone with small kids and contains some of the best rides for toddlers at Disneyland.

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: This family-friendly adventure is full of surprising twists and turns—so much so, you’ll want to ride this one again and again. 

Chip ‘n’ Dale’s GADGETcoaster:  This fun-sized coaster is a great introduction to roller coasters for kids that may be too intimated (or too small) to ride the larger ones at the park. There’s just enough speed, twists, and turns to thrill without scaring even the youngest of riders. 

Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin: Just like Roger Rabbit, the cartoon, this is a zany, fast-paced ride that spins and turns throughout. For kids that are easily scared, we suggest skipping this one as its dark, loud, and some of the characters might be considered frightening.

Disneyland Railroad: Located at the entrance of Mickey’s Toontown, you can easily climb aboard the steam-powered Disneyland Railroad for a scenic tour around the park.  

Character Sightings Galore: The beauty of Toontown? All the characters hang out here so you and your toddler can visit with Goofy, Mickey, Minnie (and visit inside each of their houses!), as well as the park’s newest cast member, Pete. 

Good to Know: Good Boy! Grocers, one of Toontown’s roadside stands offers a variety of grab-and-go drinks, snacks and novelties. Want to make it extra special?  Pick up the “Perfect Picnic Basket,” a limited-edition, novelty basket that includes up to three snack-sized items. You can even add the “Perfect Picnic Blanket” to go with your basket. 

What are the best Disney California Adventure attractions for toddlers?

  • Disney Junior stage show—it has all their favorites!
  • The Little Mermaid ride is great for little ones because it is slow-moving and quiet with familiar songs.
  • Everything at Pixar Pier (minus the Incredicoaster)
  • The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail is a great spot for families when you need to get away from the crowds. Toddlers can run around here and explore the play structure. There’s never a wait.
  • All of Cars Land
  • Web Slingers and Monsters, Inc. are great rides for this age.

What are the easiest ways to meet characters at Disneyland?

toddler visiting Disneyland
Laura Green

The great thing about Disneyland is that characters just walk around the parks. You’ll find them greeting you when you walk in. They also gather around the train station on Main Street and are also found under the awnings near Disneyland Presents Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. Character meals are a guaranteed way to meet some of your favorites. The Disney Jr. show in DCA is another good option. If you want to find a specific character, use the app to locate them.

What are some strategies for making the most of your time at Disneyland and DCA?

Allison says that Genie+ works great at these parks because of their smaller footprint, and she recommends families take advantage of it. You can only start using it once you are in the parks so you are only fighting for Lightning Lane privileges with those already in the parks.

Rider Switch is also a great option for families with little ones. You choose the ride you want to go on and approach a Cast Member there to let them know you are interested in rider switch. Adult 1 would wait in the normal queue, while Adult 2 stayed with the kids outside the ride. Once Adult 1 has completed the ride, Adult 2 returns to the ride and boards through the attraction return line and doesn’t have to wait in the normal queue.

Should you bring your own stroller to Disneyland? Or rent one at the park?

Laura Green

 

The benefit of bringing your own stroller is that you’ll have it available to use from the hotel or parking lot, whereas strollers rented at Disneyland can only be used inside the park. Also, the strollers available at the park are not infant strollers. You’ll be in better shape if you can bring your own stroller or take advantage of various companies that will deliver a stroller to your hotel in advance of your arrival if you don’t want to travel with one.

At the parks, there will be designated stroller parking. Figure out a way to differentiate your stroller from the hundreds of other black strollers that will be there. Or, better yet, put an AirTag on your stroller so that if it gets moved by a Cast Member for some reason, you’ll be able to find it.

Are there baby changing stations and nursing rooms at Disneyland?

Yes! There are Baby Care Centers at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. In Disneyland, it is located at the end of Main Street by First Aid, and in DCA, it is in the new San Fransokyo near Ghiradelli. Forget to bring extra diapers? You can grab some here! They even have toddler food, baby formula, sunscreen, over-the-counter medications, and pacifiers in the vending machines. There are toddler-size toilets, feeding stations, and microwaves for warming meals.

What should you do if your toddler is getting overwhelmed? Are there low-sensory areas?

In Disneyland, the area in Critter Country near the Hungry Bear Restaurant tends to get less traffic. You can watch the canoes and Mark Twain River Boat go by.

The Grizzly Peak area in DCA gets less traffic and is a great spot to go with little ones.

What are some tips for making mealtime easy at Disneyland?

Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort
  • Bring your own food. You can bring in whatever you want so pack those snacks so nobody gets hangry.
  • If you are going to order lunch, place your order early, like 9 a.m. You can always move the pick-up time to later but it’s almost impossible to move it earlier once the lunch rush starts.
  • Book dining reservations 60 days in advance when reservations open. The only in-park character meal is Minnie & Friends – Breakfast in the Park at the Plaza Inn so it books up fast.

Should you stay on property when visiting Disneyland?

Yes, because there are some exclusive benefits. You’ll get 30 minutes of early access to the parks before the regular guests which allows you to walk on the rides without a wait. You also get an exclusive entrance to the parks, thus avoiding the long lines at the main entrances. You won’t have to deal with parking before entering the park.

What do you need to bring with you to Disneyland?

Here’s Allison’s packing list:

  • neck fans and stroller fans
  • sweaters, ponchos, sunscreen, and stroller cover for changes in weather
  • diapers and wipes, more than you think you need
  • snacks (yes, you can bring in your own food!) and a reusable water bottle (you can ask at any quick-service station for a cup of water)
  • purchase a fuel rod from Amazon before you go (it’s cheaper) or buy one in the park. These allow you to charge your phone and then when it’s dead, you can swap it for a fully-charged fuel rod for free.
  • Magic Bands (if you are using them) and mouse ears (always!)
  • your phone—you’ll need it to take pics and use the Disneyland app.

Related: The Secret Disney Vacation Packing Tricks (From a Mom Who Just Got Back)

Why should you use a Disney Vacation Planner to book your trip?

Allison Mertzman

 

You are going to be spending quite a bit of money to go to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure so you’ll want to make the most of your visit. Hiring an expert like Allison or a member of her team means you’ll get recommendations from someone who is super passionate about Disney and the Disney vacation experience. Allison’s team includes a military veteran who is well-versed in using military benefits at the parks. There’s also a mom with special needs kids who can give you advice on visiting with special needs kids or adults.

For more tips, check out Allison’s Instagram, and for additional information on hiring Allison’s team to plan your Disney vacation, head over to her site.

Sugar-free, oil-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, fruit-filled, paleowhatever your definition of a healthy birthday cake (and smash cake) fit for a first birthday, we’ve found a recipe you’ll love. Bonus: They taste good enough for grown-up guests. Read on for 18 first-birthday cake ideas that are both smashing and smashable.

Blueberry Banana Ombre Cake

Mark Eleven Photography

Feast your eyes on this! This sugar-free cake, from Jasmin Shannon's Lemons for Days blog, is a stunner both in looks and health profile. The banana cake replaces sugar with maple syrup and packs in almond meal, flax meal, and shredded coconut. The filling is a chocolate ganache made with avocado, cacao powder and almond milk and sweetened with Medjool dates. It's all topped with a blueberry cream that includes cashews and coconut milk. Check out her Instagram for more recipes and health & wellness content.

Coconut and Raspberry Smash Cake

Healthy Little Foodies

Dairy free and gluten free, this coconut and raspberry smash cake from Healthy Little Foodies replaces refined sugars and sweeteners with dates, bananas and berries. It also sneaks in chia seeds, which contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, iron and calcium. Whipping coconut cream with vanilla makes a rich, tasty frosting.

Healthy Cinnamon-Spiced Smash Cake

Oh Everything Handmade

Organic cinnamon applesauce is the secret ingredient that adds sweet spice to both the cake and frosting in Oh Everything Handmade's healthy first birthday cake. The applesauce and bananas make added sugar unnecessary. The cake also features whole wheat flour and egg whites, and the frosting base is cream cheese.

Banana Smash Cake With Blueberry Frosting

Kristine's Kitchen

Free of butter and refined sugar, this cake is made from whole wheat flour and gets its sweetness from banana, maple syrup and applesauce. And you can thank frozen blueberries and heavy whipping cream for the lovely lavender color. The cake is sized for two 4.5-inch spring form pans, but alternately could make about seven cupcakes. Get the recipe at Kristine's Kitchen

Sugar Free Carrot & Date Cake

Things for Boys

Another cake without refined sugar, this one plenty of sweetness from good-for-you ingredients such as dates, raisins and shredded coconut. Get the full scoop on this carroty concoction at Things for Boys. The recipe is perfect for a 6-inch round cake with enough left over to make a few cupcakes for immediate family.

Baby-Friendly Cake, Four Variations

Baby Led Weaning Ideas

For kids with food allergies, this cake from Baby Led Weaning Ideas has you covered. In addition to a vanilla cake recipe that's solely free of sugar, there's a variation that's also free of dairy, eggs, gluten, soy and nuts. Both can be modified to include strawberries or chocolate. And there are lots of tips and suggestions (and even a video!) to help you bake the perfect cake. 

Healthy PB & C Cake

Hello Bee

Who doesn't love peanut butter and chocolate? This healthy cake from Hello Bee is made with whole spelt flour (you can also use whole wheat) and has a yummy, fudgy flavor despite not having added refined sugar. The frosting is made from cream cheese, honey and peanut butter, and you can sub Greek yogurt for the cream cheese (the recipe tells you how).

Honey Oat Smash Cake

Yummy Toddler Food

Free of gluten and refined sugar, this cake is super moist and has a Greek yogurt-based frosting. Hearty oat flour and sweet honey come together in a flavorful cake with a fresh fruit garnish that your child might be so busy nibbling on, they'll forget they're supposed to be smashing the cake. Find the recipe at Yummy Toddler Food; Sarah Crowder from Punctuated with Food created this cake. 

Healthier Chocolate Cake

The First Year

No added sugar, butter or oil, but there is chocolate! This moist, rich cake from The First Year get its crowd-pleasing taste from chocolate chips, bananas, Greek yogurt, honey, peanut butter and cocoa powder. Party on, chocolate lovers!

Paleo First Birthday Cupcakes

Detoxinista

These paleo cupcakes are free of oil, dairy, grains and nuts but packed full of fiber-rich coconut flour. Detoxinista dreamed up these applesauce cupcakes topped with unsweetened coconut whipped cream that party guests young and old will enjoy.

Vegan First Birthday Cake

Kitchen of Eatin'

This chocolate vegan cake with vanilla frosting from Kitchen of Eatin' is free of dairy and eggs but full of flavor. Natural ingredients like unsweetened almond milk, apple cider vinegar, evaporated cane juice, coconut oil and unsweetened cocoa powder make the cake tasty and rich. The frosting isn't sugar-free, but it is healthier thanks to coconut milk and coconut oil.

Fruit Tower Birthday Cake

Catherine McCord via Weelicious

Your baby will marvel over the beautiful colors in this healthy, no-bake cake alternative. Use your child's favorite fruits for a sensational, and Pinterest-ready, dessert. Catherine over at Weelicious shows you how to make this Fruit Tower Cake

Apple Spice Cake with Maple

Simple Bites

Loaded with 2 cups of chopped apples, this Apple Spice Cake has no processed sugar and is sweetened with maple syrup and brown rice syrup. To create the gorgeous ombre sugar-free frosting, color your cream cheese frosting with varying amounts of beets and strawberry puree. 

Cheerios Cake

Posh in Progress

If cake decorating isn't your specialty, look no further than a Cheerios box for a fun decor idea your child will love. The whole-grain oats cereal has much less sugar then traditional candy toppings, and it lends a whimsical touch to your cake. Try this yummy Sugar Free Cake with cream cheese frosting from Stacey at the blog Posh in Progress. Then open a box of Cheerios and get creative!

Cashew Cream Frosting Cake

Vintage Mixer

Tickle your tot's sweet tooth with this low-sugar carrot cake with cashew cream frosting from Becky at the Vintage Mixer. The tasty frosting is made by blending raw cashews, coconut oil, honey and vanilla and is perfect for smearing all over your happy baby's face.

Blueberry Velvet Cake

I Heart Chocolate Milk

Blueberry muffins meet birthday cake! If your child is a blueberry fan, make this beautiful Blueberry Velvet Cake with cream cheese frosting, courtesy of Tanya at I Heart Chocolate Milk. Use a sugar substitute to make a sugar-free version of this recipe. And if you don't want to use artificial coloring, add a little blueberry puree to your cake batter or choose an all-natural food coloring.

Banana Cake with Greek Yogurt Frosting

Hello Bee

Familiar flavors create a cake your child will love to nibble while smashing. This banana cake from Sarah at Hello Bee combines bananas with maple syrup and tops them with a sugar-free Greek yogurt frosting sweetened with honey. Color your yogurt frosting with a fruit puree of your choice.

Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Vanilla Pound Cake

Natural Sweet Recipes

Pound cake is the perfect choice for your smash cake (get it?). This Vanilla Pound Cake from Naturally Sweet Recipes is free of gluten and dairy but full of vanilla, protein and healthy fats. The ombre frosting is colored pink with strawberries. This recipe makes enough for a smash cake plus a larger cake for grown-ups.

Note: Babies under age one shouldn’t consume honey. So if you choose a recipe that uses honey, don’t serve it to younger guests. 

It will get messy, but that makes for the best photos! Make sure to capture all the first birthday moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

Averaging six small meals a day, it might seem like a day with your baby or toddler is just passing time between meals. To satiate their growing bellies, it’s important to make every bite count. If you’ve found yourself in a snack time slump, or feel like your only on the go options are packed with unhealthy preservatives, then check out the ideas below. With both prepackaged and homemade goodies to choose from, these healthy treats are both kid- and mom-approved.

photo: BabyFoodE

Crackers: You can always opt for a pre-made option like Annie’s Organic Crackers, but if you are looking to cut back on ingredients try making your own. This delicious Animal Cracker recipe from BabyFoodE features three different flavor options, including dark chocolate for mommy, so be sure to try them all.

Hummus: Create a dipping game, diving your toddler’s favorite whole grain bread or cut-up veggies (for older toddlers) into a bowl of hummus. Made from chickpeas and heart-healthy olive oil, this protein and fiber packed dip is a filling snack.

Applesauce: Inexpensive, healthy and sweet, applesauce is a classic go-to snack that most toddlers love. You’ll find all-natural, unsweetened options in pre-packaged cups or pouches like these from GoGo SqueeZ or try this easy recipe from Smitten Kitchen.

Cottage Cheese: Considered a complete protein, when paired with fresh fruit like peaches or pineapple cottage cheese makes a wholesome snack. Try these cottage cheese pancakes from Weelicious for a delicious breakfast-style snack anytime of day.

photo: Yummy Toddler Food

Yogurt Gummies: This hybrid yogurt and gummy snack from Yummy Toddler Food is packed with fresh fruit and full of flavor. Easy to make, use silicone molds to create fun shapes.

Cheese Stick: Broken up into small bites or pulled into fun strings once your toddler is able to chew, string cheese is the perfect calcium-filled snack.

Banana with Peanut-, Almond-, Cashew- or Sun-Butter: Bananas are loaded with potassium and when paired with your child’s favorite butter it becomes a protein-packed snack you can feel good about serving. Be sure to look for an all-natural spread that includes just nuts and salt.

Smoothies: Ideal for when you’re on the go, make your child’s favorite blends at home and transport in an easy-to-clean container like the Squeasy Snacker Silicone Reusable Food Pouch.

photo: Little Duck Organics

Freeze-dried Fruits and Vegetables: Look for fruits and veggies freeze-dried with no added sugar, like these packaged treats from Little Duck Organics, Just Tomatoes, Etc!, or the Happy Family Brand. For older toddlers, the larger freeze-dried mango and banana from Trader Joe’s are another great option.

Avocado: Full of healthy fat, Vitamin E, fiber, iron, and potassium (just to name a few benefits), this nutrient dense fruit is delicious cut into cubes, pureed into a smoothie, or mashed on top of toast and served with a side of berries.

Popsicles: The perfect snack for teething toddlers, it’s easy to turn leftover smoothies into refreshing pops. You can even get the kids in on the fun mixing ingredients. Mama Papa Bubba features some yummy flavor combinations.

Pudding: Surprisingly easy to make, forgo to the store bought mix and opt for making your own pudding flavors. BabyFoodE gave this basic snack a healthy makeover by adding a little peanut butter, chia seeds and a few other surprising ingredients. Find the recipe here.

photo: Land of Nod

Muffins: Muffins are an easy solution to getting your picky toddler to eat their necessary vegetables. From sweet potato to spinach, the possibilities are endless. Try whipping up a batch of these Carrot and Zucchini Muffins from Cupcakes and Kale Chips.

Yogurt Bites: Yogurt dots are a great source of calcium, good fats and probiotics. These colorful, all-natural Frozen Yogurt Dots from Small Fry are fun to make and even more fun to eat. But if you’re short on time, the Organic Greek Yogis from Happy Family will also do the trick.

Fruit Snacks: Sweetened with honey and made with 100% fruit juice, DIY fruit snacks are a healthier alternative to the classic store bought treat. Try this easy recipe from Kelsey Nixon and Land of Nod.

Fruit Bars: That’s It and Trader Joe’s all-natural fruit bars offer full servings of fruit, and are soft enough for toddlers to chew. We suggest stashing a few in your diaper bag for emergencies.

What do you feed your toddler at snack time? Share with us in the comments below.

— Lauren Hill

Some ideas are downright genius—and that includes Fresh Baby Bites, your Totally Awesome pick for best mom-run business in the Bay Area. Fresh Baby Bites provides fresh, local, organic baby and toddler food right to your doorstep, making it easy for busy parents to feed their kids only the freshest, organic, locally grown foods available. Every container is crammed full of the right things to nourish your baby, each ingredient has been chosen for its nutrient-rich qualities, and their foods are designed to grow with you child. We’ll raise a spoon to that!

Fresh Baby Bites’ owner Kim Burns recently took the time to chat with us about what makes Fresh Baby Bites awesome, the inspiration behind her business, and more. Read on:

Red Tricycle: Congratulations! Your community recently voted you “Most Awesome” for the second year in a row! What do you think your customers value most about your business?

Kim Burns: We do for our customers little ones what they would love to do if they had the time! Producing local, fresh, unique and organic baby and toddler food takes a lot of time and energy. Most moms don’t have the time or if they do have some spare time they would rather spend it with their little ones than in the kitchen making baby food. Our customers also love the variety and broad range of flavors that we offer. We like to use a variety of fresh herbs, spices, unique grains as well as meats and poultry. Our menu changes with the seasons and is based upon what’s fresh at the local farms.

RT: What inspired you to start your business?

KB: When I had my daughter I was making all of her baby food—when I went back to the corporate world full-time I realized I didn’t have time to keep up with the baby food making. I really didn’t want to feed her baby food that had been sitting on a shelf longer than she had been alive! Why wasn’t someone making fresh baby food for me? If I was willing to pay someone to do this for me I thought other people might too—so Fresh Baby Bites was born.

RT: Any advice for new business owners just getting started?

KB: It is going to be a lot harder and take a lot longer than you think to get started and to grow the business. Be patient—and if you’re passionate about your business and work smart you will be successful. Just know it takes time and persistence.

RT: Can you give us one tip for balancing entrepreneurship with parenthood?

KB: Have a supportive spouse/partner! Also time management is crucial to balance it all

RT: What is your proudest moment as a business owner or parent?

KB: When my daughter tells people that “my mommy feeds lots of babies.” I love that! And knowing that we are helping many families feed their babies super healthy foods and giving them more time to spend together.

RT: Is there a special offer you’d like to include for Red Tricycle readers?

KB: Yes! 20% off your first order with promo code: red20

Intrigued by Fresh Baby Bites? Follow this totally awesome business on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.