10 Sneaky Snacks Toddlers Think Are Candy But Aren’t

It’s okay for toddlers as young as 2-years old to have candy every once in a while. But most experts recommend waiting until they have a full set of baby teeth to make it regular, which usually happens around 3 years of age.

Whether your toddler has already gotten a taste of candy or they see others enjoying it, you may find yourself in a dilemma when your little one starts demanding something sweet. But there’s no reason to give them traditional candy when there are plenty of other yummy, healthier alternatives.

Below, we review the top 10 snacks to offer to your toddler to replace candy that they’ll enjoy all while giving you peace of mind.

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10 DeeBee’s Super Fruit Freezies

There’s nothing like a cold freezie in the hot summer months, regardless of what age you are. But parents have a reason to be concerned about the high sugar content in traditional freezies and popsicles.

For a healthier alternative, consider DeeBee’s Organic Super Fruit’s Freezies. They’re made with 100% fruit juice and are vegan, kosher, and gluten-free. They have less sugar than other freezies, but your toddler won’t taste the difference.

9 ‘Nice Cream’

On a similar note, consider this healthier alternative to ice cream. Healthline recommends creating your own fruit-based ice cream by blending your fruit of choice. Afterward, store it in the freezer until it reaches the desired consistency.

You can add other healthy ingredients, too, like peanut butter, honey, and coconut milk.

8 Zellee Organic Fruit Jell

If your toddler is a fan of Jello, try this healthier alternative. This plant-based snack is designed for children of all ages and promises to be a good source of nutrients. Your toddler will love the texture, while you’ll have peace of mind.

7 Organic Fruit Gummies

On a similar note, consider introducing healthy fruit gummies to toddlers who love sticky candies like gummy worms. There are tons of fruit gummies on the market tailored for kids that are low in sugar, and calories, and made from real fruit juice.

For younger toddlers, cut up the gummies into bite-sized pieces to reduce potential choking hazards. Additionally, check with your child’s pediatrician to ensure it’s age-appropriate.

6 Skinny Dipped Almonds

Rather than giving your child a candy bar, consider chocolate-covered almonds. This is a more nutritional option, as almonds carry a variety of health benefits, like lowering blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

Whole almonds should never be given to kids under 4-years old. Until then, crush the almonds up into bite-sized pieces to reduce the choking hazard.

5 Zollipops Clean Teeth Pops

If your toddler is begging for a lollipop, give them this kind that promotes better oral health. Zollipops help clean teeth by promoting a healthy PH level in the mouth. Your toddler will love the fruity flavors, while you’ll love knowing this sweet treat isn’t decaying their teeth.

4 Harvest Snaps Snapea Crisps

Yummy Toddler Food recommends these snapea crisps for parents looking for an alternative to chips. These easily dissolve in the mouth, meaning they’re less hazardous to traditional chips and pretzels for toddlers. Plus, they’re high in fiber and protein, making them a healthier option.

3 Stretch Island Fruit Leather

If your toddler loves chewy treats like licorice and gummies, tantalize their taste buds with Stretch Island’s fruit leather.

Taste of Home recommends these for kids since each flavor contains only 2-5 ingredients plus no added sugars. Like a fruit roll-up, these fruit snacks come in a thin sheet that your toddler will have fun breaking off. Cut it up into smaller pieces if you anticipate your child will have trouble.

2 Dried Fruit

For something fruity with a bit of crunch, introduce your child to dried fruit. When shopping, look for options that are low in sugar and sodium. But if you have access to a dehydrator, it’s easy to make your own dried fruit snacks at home.

As per Solid Starts, parent should avoid giving their toddler dried fruits until they’re at least 18 months old. Afterward, make sure the fruit is bite size to reduce the choking risk.

1 Veggie Chips

On a similar note, veggie chips are a great alternative for toddlers that like chips. Can Babies Eat explains that veggie chips or straws are acceptable to give to babies as young as 9 months old.

At the grocery store, look for options that prioritize real ingredients and are low in sodium. For an even healthier alternative, consider making veggie chips in an air fryer.

Before introducing something new to your toddler’s diet, it’s a wise idea to check in with their pediatrician to ensure it’s age appropriate. Please always follow the recommendations of your child’s doctor.

Sources: Parents, Healthline, Yummy Toddler Food, Healthline, Taste of Home, Solid Starts, Can Babies Eat, Arizona Biltmore Dentistry,

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