This blog post looks at the best meal ideas and recipes for toddlers who are always on the go. Featuring a range of wholesome, healthy and convenient meal options, Toddler Recipes Australia is the perfect resource for busy parents. Whether your toddler needs breakfast-on-the-go, lunch box ideas or quick dinner solutions, we’ve got you covered with delicious and nutritious recipes for even the pickiest of eaters.

Meal Ideas for Toddlers On-the-Go

As a dad to a young toddler, I am all too familiar with busy days where it feels like there simply isn’t enough time to make a proper meal. Between work, sports practice, piano lessons and more, finding the time to cook a healthy and nutritious meal for our little ones can be a struggle. That’s why I’m here to share some of my best tips for quick, healthy and delicious meal ideas for toddlers on the go.

Quick and Easy Dinners

Busy nights don’t have to mean forgoing sit-down dinners. Here are some delicious and relatively quick meals that will be sure to have your toddler saying “yum”:

• Sandwich Bar - Put out a variety of breads, cheeses, meats and veggies for your toddler to make their own sandwiches. They’ll love getting to choose their own ingredients and will think it’s like a special meal at a restaurant.

• Mac and Cheese - Mac and cheese is always a hit with toddlers and while using the pre-packaged variety may save time, you can also try to make it from scratch. A simple combination of cheese, butter and pasta is hard to beat!

• Quesadillas - A great way to get some extra veggies into your toddler’s diet, quesadillas are a fun and easy meal that can be ready in a matter of minutes. Cheese and spinach are the perfect combo, but make sure to add some beans for extra protein.

On-The-Go Snacks

If your day is packed with activities and you don’t have time to make a full meal, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious snacks that you can prepare ahead of time and have ready to go. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Yogurt - Yogurt is a great source of protein, calcium, and Vitamin D. Make sure to check the label to find one without added sugar. Then, put it into small containers or ziplock bags so that it’s easy to grab-and-go!

• Cheese Sticks - Cheese sticks are a great source of calcium and protein and can be eaten at room temperature. Cut up some pieces of fruit and veggies to go along with your cheese sticks for a healthy and nutritious snack.

• Trail Mix - A healthy combination of fruits, nuts and seeds make up a great trail mix. Mix up some of your favorite ingredients and store them in small containers or resealable bags for an easy snack to throw in your bag.

Desserts

Just because you’re short on time doesn’t mean you can’t have a delicious after-dinner treat. Here are some quick and simple desserts that your toddler will love:

• Strawberries and Whipped Cream - Strawberries and cream are a classic combination and are a healthier option than many other treats. Use real whipped cream and top some freshly sliced strawberries with it for a sweet treat.

• Fruit Salad - A bowl of fruit is always a hit with toddlers. Cut up some of your favorite fruits (bananas, apples, kiwis, etc.) and mix them up in a bowl. You can also try adding some yogurt or a bit of honey to make it even tastier.

• Rice Pudding - Rice pudding is easy to make and easy to pack for on-the-go snacking. Cook up some cooked white or brown rice in some milk and cinnamon. Once cooled, you can pack it into containers for later.

Mealtime doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming when you have toddlers on the go. With a bit of creativity and some advance planning, you can make delicious and nutritious meals that your little ones will love in no time.

Do you have any other tips or meal ideas for busy toddlers? Let us know in the comments below!

Author: James, Dad and Cybersecurity Specialist from Australia