Routine and healthy habits are a crucial part of development. In order to ensure success, it’s important to provide a health-conscious foundation. So what foods should we be feeding our little ones? There are a lot of fads out there… and it seems like each week, the blogs are touting some new super veggie or ideal supplement. Where do you invest, and which superfoods do you opt to ignore?

When I’m running low on time and energy, it’s easy to be tempted to whip some mac and cheese or an overly processed boxed meal instead of making smart nutritional choices on behalf of my kids. It’s tough finding balance as a mom! That’s why I’ve compiled a handy list for you to consult while grocery shopping.

Over the years, I’ve found that it’s important to simplify and return to nature. Here are my top, vegan picks for feeding my youngsters. Instead of thinking of your fridge overhaul as “dieting,” consider it a “lifestyle change.” (Bonus: all the foods on our list are cost-effective, too!)

Vegan Protein Option – Quinoa
An ancient grain, quinoa is gaining popularity as a carb option that’s gluten-free and high in protein. The superfood can also be made into flour for pasta, utilised in baking, and incorporated into salads. You name it, quinoa can do it. It’s high in fiber and actually classified as a broadleaf vegetable, not a grain.

Best of all, quinoa is a great protein source for moms trying to raise their children with vegan, vegetarian, and/or organic nutrition. It has sustained people in South American cultures for generations. However, some research suggests that the new Western demand for the broadleaf has caused some locals to shy away from quinoa in order to gain from its exportation benefits. Do your research and see if it’s a good fit for you.

Avocados – Important Fats
It seems like Pinterest and the recipe blogs are full of avocado recipes and for good reason! It’s a power food that can improve not only your health but your skin, and can be mashed into guacamole, put into salads, and spread over toast. Plus, it’s an ideal option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

If you have picky eaters, it’s also an ingredient your children will be sure to love due to its buttery, satisfying flavor and texture. Lots of fantastic websites have simple avocado recipes. Here’s one for a delicious kid-friendly avocado dip. Or, if you have some vegetarians in the house here is one for avocado baked eggs (just make sure the eggs are cage-free or even better from a local farm where you know the chickens are treated well).

Berries and Nuts
Take it from another mom, there’s nothing like a road trip or running errands to bring on “Hungry Kid Syndrome.” It’s important to plan ahead and have a backup strategy to satisfy grumbling bellies when they attack. My absolute favorite in-the-car treat is homemade trail mix. I combine walnuts, almond slivers, and dried fruits and berries for a protein-rich, energizing snack. Plus, making our own at home saves money and unnecessary packaging. (Just make sure your child doesn’t have any nut allergies.) With this combination, you’re getting important fats and good sugars! According to Everyday Health, walnuts fight inflammation, almonds have fiber and vitamin E, and cashews are rich in iron and zinc. Buy in bulk and save money and packaging.

So what are your favorite Superfoods? Did any of your go-to ingredients make the list?

Thanks for stopping by Willy B Mum. Peace, Love and Plant Superfoods Make the World Go Around!

Cassie Brewer is a journalist living in Southern California.
She is passionate about helping others look and feel their best and finds that one of the best ways to accomplish this is through the foods that we eat.