Favorite Mini Meatballs (with Veggies)


Favorite Mini Meatballs (with Veggies)

[ad_1] With classic Italian flavor, greens in the mix, and an easy cooking method, these Mini Meatballs are a super delicious family meal component to share with babies on up to adults. They are great with pasta, in sandwiches, or eaten on their own! Mini Meatballs You guys, these meatballs are so good. This is […]

Ultimate Guide to Picky Eaters – Yummy Toddler Food


uncrustable-lunch-on-blue-plate

[ad_1] Learning what to expect from the common phase of “picky eating” can help you worry and stress less during kids meals and snacks. Use this post for reassurance, context, and also straight-forward tips for what to do to improve the situation with picky eaters. Picky Eaters Sometime between 1 and 2, most kids go […]

Best Toddler and Baby Puffs (Safe, Nutritious Options)


variety of baby puffs on countertop.

[ad_1] Learn which baby puffs are best for your baby and toddler, when you can introduce them, what to look for at the store, and how to buy puffs for babies with the most nutrition possible. Baby Puffs Puffs, and the pixie dust-like debris that they leave behind, seem to be a right of passage […]

Easy Alphabet Matching Activity – Busy Toddler


Easy Alphabet Matching Activity - Busy Toddler

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 02/11/2023    Updated: 02/11/2023 Looking for an easy alphabet matching activity for your child? This simple indoor activity uses only two supplies, but is brimming with hands-on learning. Grab some foam letters and set up this alphabet activity today. Alphabet activities in early childhood are often boiled down to the pages of […]

Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes


Three vegan chocolate cupcakes on counter.

[ad_1] Made in minutes with pantry staples and without eggs or dairy, these are literally the easiest cupcakes ever—and the best vegan Chocolate Cupcakes I’ve ever had. Win, win! Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes I am always searching for recipes that are easy and don’t need crazy hard-to-find ingredients, and that are also easy enough to vary […]

Favorite Football Cake (for Kid Birthdays or a Big Game!)


Favorite Football Cake (for Kid Birthdays or a Big Game!)

[ad_1] If you have a kiddo who’s obsessed with sports or want to celebrate a big game, this Football Cake is a fun way to celebrate! It’s easy to make—no special pans needed—and is full of chocolate-y goodness! My youngest child has been obsessed with footballs, soccer balls, and basketballs for the past two years, […]

Color Activities for Preschoolers and Toddlers – Busy Toddler


Best Color Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers: image shows 8 images of children playing with color-based activities.

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 02/05/2023    Updated: 02/05/2023 Teaching colors to children is a magical part of early learning. It literally unlocks the world to them. This collection of color activities for preschoolers and toddlers allows children to play with colors in a meaningful and hands-on way. Color activities for preschoolers and toddlers doesn’t have to […]

Fine Motor Water Activity – Busy Toddler


Fine Motor Water Activity - Busy Toddler

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 02/05/2023    Updated: 02/05/2023 A fine motor water activity for toddlers and preschoolers that’s not only a hand work-out, but brimming with science goodness. Using just colored water and a few tools from around the house, this is an easy indoor activity that kids love. Budding young scientists will be captivated by […]

Letter Board Alphabet Activity – Busy Toddler


A child laying on her stomach holds up a small white letter before placing it on a letter board. A blue piece of tape separates the board into two sides.

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 02/04/2023    Updated: 02/04/2023 Creating a letter board alphabet activity for preschoolers and kindergarteners is quick and easy. This literacy activity focuses on sorting letters by their shape and make up. Give your child time to sit up close and consider letters in this easy alphabet activity. I love that letter boards […]

Color Sorting Cube – Busy Toddler


A child smiles while placing a red dot sticker onto a box covered in construction paper. He

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 02/04/2023    Updated: 02/04/2023 Grab an empty box: this mash-up activity is a mix of recognizing colors, sorting dot stickers, and gross motor skills all rolled into one. With just a few supplies (a box, construction paper, dot stickers), this sorting activity comes to life with whole body movements. Color sorting cube […]

So Good Chocolate Protein Muffins (with Veggies!)


So Good Chocolate Protein Muffins (with Veggies!)

[ad_1] These flourless Chocolate Protein Muffins pack in the nutrients but taste like a brownie. They are quickly mixed up in a blender and have so many nutrients tucked inside. Plus: They store so well in the fridge! Chocolate Protein Muffins Muffins are one of those foods that we like to have in the house […]

Free Printable Cards for Valentine’s Day – Busy Toddler


Free Valentine printables with bubbles. The printable says "Valentine, you blow me away."

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 01/31/2023    Updated: 01/31/2023 Need a quick, easy, and cost-effective Valentine? Download my free printable cards for Valentine’s Day and pair them with bubbles. This inexpensive card is a perfect non-candy Valentine that kids will love receiving. Are these actually free printable cards for Valentine’s Day? Yep. They’re totally free. You don’t […]

Printable Valentine Cards with Pencil – Busy Toddler


Printable Valentine

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 01/31/2023    Updated: 01/31/2023 Are you looking for a quick, easy, and cost-effective Valentine? Download my free printable Valentine cards and pair them with a pencil. This inexpensive Valentine is perfect for kids to gift friends and classmates. Are these actually a free printable Valentine cards? Yes. They’re totally free. I don’t […]

Free Printable Valentines for Kids – Busy Toddler


A child

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 01/31/2023    Updated: 01/31/2023 Do you need a simple, easy, and low-cost ? Download my free printable Valentines for kids and pair them with a glow stick. This inexpensive Valentine is a great non-candy option for children to give to friends and classmates. Are these actually free printable Valentines for kids? They […]

Quick Tortilla Pizzas – Yummy Toddler Food


Tortilla pizza cut into slices on countertop.

[ad_1] Make quick work of the next kids meal with this super easy Tortilla Pizza recipe. You need only three basic ingredients, it can be adjusted for preferences and allergies, and it’s a perfect pair with a side of veggies or fruit. Tortilla Pizzas Whenever I’m short on energy or time, or I just want […]

Sensory Bins for Toddlers – Busy Toddler


15+ Sensory Bin Ideas for Toddlers: image shows 8 sensory bins for toddlers.

[ad_1] Are sensory bins good for toddlers? Short answer: yes. Creating sensory bins for toddlers allows them to build skills and understanding through play-based, hands-on learning. Sensory bins are easy, in-expensive, and effective for supporting toddler in their growth and development – but (spoiler alert) they don’t have to be messy to be fun. I […]

Best Toddler and Baby Highchairs (For All Budgets)


6 toddler highchairs in grid

[ad_1] Investing in a durable and comfortable toddler highchair right from the start can save you money in the long run and keep kids comfortable during mealtimes for years to come. Find the best picks for baby highchairs and toddler seats at all price points. Best Baby and Toddler Highchairs In my book, the best […]

What is a sensory bin? – Busy Toddler


What is a sensory bin? Image is a child sitting behind a storage container pouring orange water. Several cups, bowls, and pitchers are in the bin.

[ad_1] Sensory bins are a hands-on and immersive play opportunity for children. A sensory bin is often created inside a container using a variety of different materials and tools. Sensory bins provide children with a chance to develop critical life skills, academic skills, and motor skills in a fun, play-based way. What is a sensory […]

Easy Sliced Baked Apples – Yummy Toddler Food


sliced baked apples on polka dot plate.

[ad_1] Transform normal apples into Sliced Baked Apples, free from refined sugar, with this super simple method that takes just 5 minutes to prep. They’re a healthy topping for oatmeal, yogurt, and pancakes—and are perfect for baby-led weaning! Sliced Baked Apples I tend to have an apple or two left at the end of the […]

Easy Bento Lunch Box Ideas (Picky-Eater Approved)


bento-lunch-box-ideas-on-countertop

[ad_1] Make packing lunches so much easier with these easy bento lunch box ideas. Bento boxes are an awesome way to pack a mix of nutritious foods together in one lunch box—and the options for what to pack is almost endless! Bento Lunch Box Ideas Using a bento box, or a divided lunch box, to […]

Quick One-Pot Vegetable Broth


Vegetable broth in three glass jars with lids.

[ad_1] Make a delicious vegetable broth that keeps all of the nutrients right in the mix with this super easy method. It’s a wonderful way to add extra veggies to soups, pastas, and more. Vegetable Broth For years, I’ve heard of people making vegetable broth from veggie scraps—but then I realized that it’s also possible […]

Overnight Oats with Greek Yogurt and Mango


overnight oats with greek yogurt in jars

[ad_1] With a bright tropical flavor and a simple method, these Overnight Oats with Greek Yogurt are an easy make-ahead breakfast for the whole family. The Mango Overnight Oats take 5 minutes to stir together, and they store in the fridge for days! Overnight Oats with Greek Yogurt I love having some toddler breakfasts (and […]

Banana Smoothie with Milk – Yummy Toddler Food


banana smoothie in two cups with sliced bananas in glass.

[ad_1] Try this classic Banana Smoothie with milk using just a few simple, nutritious ingredients as an easy breakfast or snack. This one is so, so creamy! Banana Smoothie with Milk I’ve made loads of smoothies (including this toddler smoothie with veggies) over the years, and the thing I keep coming back to is that […]

Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce (with Pasta)


Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce (with Pasta)

[ad_1] This is the absolutely easiest way to cook flavorful chicken—it simply poaches right in the marinara sauce. This Chicken in Tomato Sauce is perfect with pasta or with a side of Italian bread and is a perfect easy family meal. Chicken in Tomato Sauce Simmering chicken in marinara or tomato sauce is my favorite […]

Winter Activities for Kids – Busy Toddler


20+ Winter Activities for Kids of All Ages: image shows 8 winter ideas for kids.

[ad_1] Author: Susie    Published: 01/05/2023    Updated: 01/05/2023 It’s time for snow, ice, and arctic activities to have their moment in the (cold) sun. These winter activities for kids are the perfect way to experience the season (even when the weather doesn’t totally cooperate). Enjoy these 20+ winter ideas for tabies, toddlers, preschoolers and even big […]

Easy First Birthday Party Ideas


sweet potato cake with plates.

[ad_1] When it’s time to celebrate your baby’s first birthday, there are so many fun ways to celebrate that don’t cost a fortune. Here are my favorite first birthday party ideas to share the love and celebrate the milestone. First Birthday Party Ideas Celebrating a first birthday is such an important milestone for both the […]

Master List of Healthy Snacks for Kids and Toddlers


toddler-snacks-on-kitchen-counter

[ad_1] Coming up with yummy and healthy snack ideas for kids each day can be a big challenge. This master list of toddler snacks, which includes both fresh and store-bought, will make it easier to serve nutritious food that your kids will actually want to eat. Toddler Snacks It’s so easy to get stuck in […]

Favorite Funfetti Pancakes (Birthday Cake)


Stack of funfetti pancakes on blue plate with fork.

[ad_1] Perfectly fluffy pancakes, made more fun? These Funfetti Pancakes are exactly that—and are just so yummy. They’re perfect to celebrate a holiday, birthday, or special day…or just as a way to make breakfast more fun for the kids. Funfetti Pancakes Yes, you could pick up a box of funfetti mix at the store, but […]

Banana Smoothie with Yogurt


banana smoothie in two cups with sliced bananas in glass.

[ad_1] With the creamiest texture and the simplest ingredients, this classic Banana Smoothie with Yogurt is a delicious (and nutritious) breakfast or snack. Banana Smoothie with Yogurt We love serving smoothies regularly as an easy kids drink option, and this simple banana smoothie is a forever favorite. Made with just a few nutritious ingredients, this […]

Quick Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage – Yummy Toddler Food


butternut-squash-pasta-in-white-bowl-and-teal-bowls

[ad_1] With an easy cooking method that takes less than 20 minutes, this Butternut Squash Pasta is a healthy and yummy family dinner. There are a few variations so you can customize it for your family according to preferences and any allergies you may have! Pasta with Butternut Squash I love my pasta with all […]

Favorite Baby-Led Weaning Recipes


blw steak and Green beans on pink kids plate.

[ad_1] Find the easiest baby-led weaning recipes for babies 6 months and up, with nutritious options from each food group. I share serving suggestions, storage tips, and more to help make this phase of baby food easier and more enjoyable for your family! Baby-Led Weaning Recipes Starting solids with baby is a fun milestone but […]

Fluffy Gingerbread Pancakes


gingerbread pancakes on two plates with berries.

[ad_1] With the fluffiest texture and just the right amount of spice, these delicious Gingerbread Pancakes are a perfect holiday breakfast—or anytime breakfast when you want cozy flavors to share! Gingerbread Pancakes I love introducing new flavors to my family and since my kids love both my Gingerbread Muffins and my easy Gingerbread Cake, I […]

Homemade Baby Rice Cereal – Yummy Toddler Food


Homemade Baby Rice Cereal - Yummy Toddler Food

[ad_1] Learn the easiest way to make the best homemade Baby Rice Cereal. It’s a perfect Stage 1 baby food that’s high in nutrients, easy to store, and easy to customize with lots of fresh flavors for months of yummy eating! Baby Rice Cereal I love to start solids with a range of flavors, textures, […]

Favorite Jam Cookies – Yummy Toddler Food


Jam cookies on cooling rack.

[ad_1] With an easy-to-work-with sugar cookie base and a layer of jam in the middle, these Jam Cookies are an all-time favorite cookie to share with the kids. This version has a foolproof dough and is just sweet enough. They’re perfect for the holidays— or any day! Jam Cookies I love a lot of cookies, […]

Blueberry Yogurt Cake


Blueberry yogurt cake pieces stacked with jug of milk.

[ad_1] Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, tenderness from yogurt, and sweetness from berries, this Blueberry Yogurt Cake is the most delicious breakfast or snack—or dessert—to share with the kids. Plus: It’s so easy to make! Blueberry Yogurt Cake I took inspiration from my beloved Yogurt Muffins and turned them into this easy snack cake—because it’s […]

Apple Sheet Pan Pancakes – Yummy Toddler Food


apple-sheet-pan-pancake-on-counter

[ad_1] With a super simple method that allows you to bake an entire batch of pancakes at once, these Sheet Pan Pancakes are a breakfast win. They’re loaded with fresh apples, too, for extra flavor and nutrition. Sheet Pan Pancakes I love the ease of throwing a batch of pancake batter onto a baking pan […]

Best Tips for Cooking with Toddlers (Plus Recipes)


woman and toddler cooking in kitchen together.

[ad_1] Having the kids in the kitchen can be fun, productive, and delicious, but how exactly does cooking with toddlers work? Learn how to channel their “I do it myself!” spirit into fun cooking activities and basic kitchen skills. Cooking with Toddlers Most people I know fall into one of two camps: They either find […]

Final Thoughts on Food and Feeding


Revisiting ‘In the Heat of a Meltdown’

[ad_1] In the last episode of the season, the cohosts revisit some highlights of this season and share more tips and insight for raising our kids to be healthy and independent eaters. Mackenzie Johnson Parent to a little one with her own quirks. Celebrator of the concept of raising kids “from scratch”. Learner and lover […]

Best Learning Towers (For All Budgets!)


guidecraft kitchen tower learning tower for toddlers in natural

[ad_1] Learning towers bring toddlers and little kids up to counter height, protect them from falling backwards with their smart design, and let the kids help cook, play, or eat up where the action is. They’re SO useful! Today, I’m sharing my favorites to fit a range of budgets and spaces. Learning Towers for Toddlers […]