our favorite toddler snacks

Last Friday I shared an archive of all our favorite toddler meals, based on a 6-week meal series I did last Fall. In addition to healthy, simple meals, I am always on the lookout for easy snacks that I don't have to feel too guilty about giving to Olivia. 

When we're at home, I always try to offer fresh snacks, such as fruit that is in season, peanut butter and apple slices, yogurt and granola, a fruit & veggie smoothie, half an avocado, almond butter on toast with banana slices, etc. But some days we are out and about and taking the time to prepare a healthy snack isn't always an option, so below I've rounded up our go-to snacks that can be packed in my diaper bag or grabbed in an instant. 

Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps // Our favorite flavors are Original and Parmesan Rosemary ... If we're at home, they're great topped with cheese and turkey or ham

KIND Granola // We love the Maple Quinoa Clusters flavor but every one we've tried has been delicious! It is gluten free, which is an extra bonus if you are gluten sensitive. On the go, Olivia loves eating it plain but at home I serve it with milk or on top of yogurt

Horizon Organic Sandwich Crackers // These come in peanut butter and cheddar, and we love both of them! A small handful always fills Olivia up and I like that she gets a little bit of protein with them

Annie's Bunny Fruit Snacks // These are more of a treat than a go-to snack; every flavor is so yummy! 

Chobani Greek Yogurt tubes // High in protein, these are a great way to pack yogurt on the go -- you can freeze them for a few hours and then they'll thaw in your diaper bag; I also like how easy they are for Via to eat ... they come in a few flavors but the banana is her favorite

Organic Valley Stringles String Cheese // Who am I kidding? These are one of my favorite snacks too! Especially paired with pretzel crisps. Obviously, you don't want to pack these for all day errands because they should be kept refrigerated, but I'll throw one in my bag on our way out the door and Olivia can munch on it in the car shortly after we leave

18 Rabbits Jr. Granola Bars // I came across these a few months ago and was intrigued by their unique flavors; each bar is a rather small size perfect for toddlers and great for a quick and easy snack

Annie's Organic White Cheddar Bunnies // A great alternative to traditional goldfish, Olivia loves these yummy bunny crackers ... they come in yellow and white cheddar and we're fans of both

Trader Joe's "Just a Handful" Trail Mixes // This is one that depends on the age of your child, but Olivia loves trail mix! Our favorite flavor is the "Just almonds, cashews and cranberries" but TJs sells all different mixes. I like that these are already pre-packaged and can be stored in my diaper bag indefinitely. Plus, nuts are packed with so many awesome nutrients so we always keep them on hand

GoGo Squeeze // These are a must for us, with so many flavors and super easy to eat mess-free, plus no sugar is added to them (unlike many other store bought applesauces). Apple Cinnamon and Apple Berry are two of our favorites, but we've tried them all and I don't think Olivia has ever turned one down. When its hot out, I throw one in the freezer for 10 minutes and it's a perfect backyard treat.

Simply Balanced Fruit & Grain Bars // I bought these on a whim when they were on sale and I think Dustin finished the box before Olivia had even had one! I reach for these to pack when our breakfast is on the go if we have an early morning or some place to be. They come in blueberry, strawberry and apple -- our favorite!

Other on the go snacks we always have on hand include classic animal crackers (our favorite are from Trader Joe's) and Mom's Best Brand dry cereals ... Olivia likes the Honey Grahams and Toasted Cinnamon Squares and they're perfect for munching on from her snack cup in the car or grocery cart! I love to spend time preparing fun and flavorful snacks for her at home but life as a Mom is busy and these make it a little easier!