Back when H first started solids we bought some of these awesome freezer trays to freeze up his meals in neat little portions and because they came with a lid i never had to worry about freezer burn. Anyway, they are also the perfect way to serve up a toddler tasting plate but you could just as easily use a muffin tin or ice cube tray.
In the morning i just get assemble the tray and it is good to go for him all day. It comes out at morning and afternoon tea time and gives him a good variety of healthy snacks to nibble on which makes me worry a little less if he isnt keen on eating more than a bite or two at lunch time.
Here is the one we did for Easter. I included great little animal picks to make it fun.
Imagination really is the limit to what you can put in each little compartment, just make it small enough that little hands dont have to fiddle, but big enough not to be a choking hazard (you know your child and what they can cope with best). You can keep it simple or go the whole hog of cutting food into shapes and decorating. I do a little of both, depending on my mood and the craziness of the day.
Some suggestions:
- Capsicum
- Chickpeas
- Banana Bread
- Broccoli (steamed or raw)
- Cheese Cubes
- Carrots (steamed)
- Dip (hommus, cream cheese, sweet chilli, chutney, tzasiki, corn relish etc)
- Peas
- Green beans
- Chopped fruit
- Beans (canned)
- Diced meatloaf
- Cherry tomatoes
- Sultanas
- Cooked pasta
- Diced avocado
- Blueberries
- Corn
- Meatballs
- Baked beans
- Sweet Potato Chips
- Mini pancakes
Have fun coming up with your plates. I would love to hear how they go.
