Young children have small stomachs and high energy needs, so snacks are an important part of their diet.
Planned snacks, rather than constant grazing, help children come to meals hungry.
Combine food groups
Pairing a fruit or vegetable with protein or whole grains makes snacks more filling — for example, apple slices with cheese, or wholegrain crackers with hummus.
Simple ideas
Yogurt with fruit
Vegetable sticks with dip
Hard-boiled eggs
Homemade popcorn for older children
Banana with nut or seed butter (check for allergies)
Watch choking hazards
For young children, cut round foods such as grapes and cherry tomatoes lengthwise, and avoid whole nuts and hard sweets. Follow age-specific guidance from health authorities.
Set snack times
Regular snack times prevent constant grazing, which can reduce appetite for meals.
Drinks
Water and milk are generally recommended as everyday drinks for children. Limit sugary drinks and juice.
This is general parenting information, not medical advice. Every child is different — talk to your paediatrician, family doctor, or a qualified specialist about your child’s health, development, or behaviour. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
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