Society’s obsession with protein has skyrocketed, and it’s all over our grocery store shelves—from protein-fortified cereals, chips, and crackers to protein waters. For parents, protein is definitely top of mind as you try to get even a morsel into your buttered noodle-obsessed kid’s body. But are we stressing a little more than we need to be? When it comes to protein for kids, how much do they really need?
Simply put, children need protein but they don’t need a lot of it. I know, sounds hard to believe, but don’t spit out your (microwaved) coffee in shock just yet. If your kid’s protein intake is consuming your thoughts, here’s what you need to know.
What makes protein so important anyway?
Protein offers kids sustained energy and satiety, which is helpful for both stay-at-home crawlers and active school-goers. It also slows carbohydrate digestion, preventing the blood sugar spikes that can make kids moody and tired. Protein is a powerful resource for children and an important part of a balanced diet.
How much protein do kids actually need?
Less than you think! Protein is essential for growth but their small bodies don’t need a ton of it just yet. Toddlers between the ages of 1 and 3 require 13 grams of protein per day and older kids between the ages of 4 and 8 only need 19 grams per day.
To put this in perspective, a single-serving container of Greek yogurt boasts 16 grams of protein—that’s more than a toddler’s daily requirement. Similarly, a peanut butter sandwich contains about 8-12 grams of protein, covering most of a child’s daily needs. So it’s safe to say that serving protein-rich foods once or twice a day should be sufficient. And if your child isn’t a big eater, don’t sweat it.
Tips and tricks for meeting your kid’s daily protein needs.
1. Beige foods for the win.
Even if your toddler refuses burgers at a BBQ or chicken fingers at grandma’s house, they can still get all the protein they need by eating beige foods—you know, the foods that toddler dreams and diets are made of. Think pasta, bread, and crackers. For example, you’ll find 7 g of protein in 3/4 cup of rigatoni. So when you feel guilty about serving pasta the third night this week, just remember that your kid’s protein needs for that day are half met. Mom win!
2. Explore out-of-the-box proteins.
Instead of loading your grocery cart with pricey protein bars and powders, you probably already have protein-rich food in your pantry. Did you know that carbohydrates are high in protein? Yup, that’s right. The next time your toddler grabs a second (or third) dinner roll, he’s likely eating protein too! Here are some other protein-filled carbs you may want to add to your pantry:
1/3 cup of rolled oats contains 6 g of protein
2 tbsp of hummus has 2 g of protein
2 slices of whole wheat bread includes 8 g of protein
A couple handfuls of Cheerios contain 2-3 g of protein
4 tbsp of black beans has 3 g of protein
3. A little protein goes a long way.
While you can knock out your protein requirements with a couple of servings a day, picky eaters may require a little more ingenuity. Instead of serving large portions of protein at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offer small amounts at meals and snacks. Consider adding ‘protein toppings’ such as chia seeds, hemp seeds, ground nuts, or seeds that can be sprinkled on oatmeal or yogurt or added to cereals, smoothies, and baked goods. It is much easier (and less overwhelming!) to meet protein needs by adding little bits throughout the day.
Putting it into practice.
Making sure your kids get enough protein doesn’t have to be a struggle. Including fan-favorite pantry staples (Hello Cheerios! Hi bread!) throughout the day will make meeting their needs more manageable for even the pickiest eaters. Here are a few examples of how to hit the mark each day using typical proteins and beloved beige foods:
It was the night before the first full day of kindergarten. Bags of school supplies were piled in front of my son’s new, oversized backpack. I’d laid out his clothes on top of his dresser, clipped his nails as if for inspection. At bath time, I scrubbed the magic marker off his palms with unusual vigor. And after I tucked him in for a premature bedtime, I headed to the kitchen. There, my least favorite task awaited me. It was time to pack his lunchbox.
I’d purchased a bento box, somehow imagining those cute little containers may turn my son into a person he was not yet: an adventurous eater.
There was once a time when my son was not picky at mealtime. It was around the time he began eating solid food. I loaded his highchair tray with carrots and berries, boiled eggs and chicken. One evening, he devoured our takeout tikka masala, and I, a smug new mom, bragged about his palate to his daycare teacher.
“He may get pickier when he’s older,” she warned. And sure enough, perhaps a year later, she was absolutely right.
He began demanding less color, reveling in a new obsession with tan. Chicken nuggets. Mac and cheese. I’d sneak single green beans and tiny broccoli florets onto his plate, only to be greeted with tantrums. He didn’t want to eat them! He didn’t even want to see them! Still, I continued to try—exposure, I read, was the most important thing. And as his taste grew narrower and narrower, I found myself thankful that at least he still ate chicken nuggets. Because, you know, protein.
By the time we reached kindergarten, we had made a bit of progress (specifically in the fruit department). Still, I dreaded packing his lunch. I dreaded it because I had two choices: I could pack foods he would actually eat, or I could pack foods that I believed would make me look like a good mom.
That night before kindergarten with the bento box, I tried to strike a balance between aspirational and realistic. I wasn’t crazy enough to sneak in anything too exciting, like edamame (this, when I looked at lunchbox inspiration on the internet, seemed like a crowning achievement: a kid who ate edamame).
I packed a mix of healthy and indulgent. A hard-boiled egg. Strawberries. A peanut butter sandwich on white bread. Apple sauce. Some chips.
When I picked him up from school that next day, he looked tired. Almost dizzy. When we returned home, I signed his planner and opened his lunch box. The chips were gone, and so was the applesauce—but otherwise, it was nearly still full.
“Why didn’t you eat your strawberries?” I asked him later that evening. “You love those!”
“They didn’t taste right,” he replied.
For a week, then two, I did this: packed a lunch, and then the next day after school, nearly threw it all away. He returned home from school ravenous.
“What do your friends eat?” I asked him, exasperated. “Is there anything they eat that sounds good to you?”
“They eat the school lunch,” he replied.
I looked online at the meal schedule. The following day, they would be serving a hamburger and fries.
“Go ahead and order that,” I told him.
And sure enough, the next day, he returned home bright and smiling. He reported eating his lunch, happily, with all his friends. And then, the next day, he ordered and ate the spaghetti. Then the chicken and noodles. I quietly rejoiced.
Energy! Protein! And my son was, in fact, trying new things.
I’d let myself believe that my son’s diet was a reflection of my motherhood. I’d internalized the stigma that a school cafeteria lunch was somehow inferior to a meal packed from home.
But you know what is truly unhealthy? A hungry child. By saying yes to the school lunch, my son was still discovering new foods. He was enjoying a meal with his peers, learning that eating is about nutrition, yes, but it is also about community.
I’d believed so many messages about food having moral value, and I was inadvertently placing that burden on my son. It wasn’t fair that I expected him to make me look better by consuming what others deemed good. I’m continuing to say yes to the school cafeteria lunch—something my son is very happy about—and I hope making mealtime less stressful for us both will contribute to a positive relationship with food for the rest of his life.
Fill them up with these tasty meals that aren’t chicken nuggets
Protein-packed meals and picky eaters don’t always go hand-in-hand. If your little one gags at anything but buttered noodles and you’re wondering where they’ll get their high-protein foods from, we have recipes and high-protein foods for picky eaters that kids will actually eat (especially if you adjust these ideas to their taste). From yummy breakfast shakes to easy dinner ideas, keep reading to find your new secret weapon.
What kiddo says no to a peanut butter cup shake? None that we've met. This is a high-protein packed shake that's perfect for busy mornings, and especially for tweens who have a hard time eating breakfast. Get the recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron.
Soft-boiled eggs are ready in five minutes, and when paired with buttered sticks of toast (soldiers) which the kids can dunk in the runny yolk, they're as fun as they are convenient. Head to Eat Live Run for tips and tricks on how to boil the perfect egg.
Having waffles for breakfast? Skip the regular syrup and whip up this delicious peanut butter syrup for a perfect high-protein food for picky eaters. Plus add a double dose of protein with this scrumptious peanut butter waffle recipe written out at Creations by Kara.
Picky eaters will be so excited about the chocolate chip muffin aspect that they won’t even notice the protein powder you add to the mix. These are a great on-the-go breakfast option!
High-Protein Foods for Picky Eaters Perfect for Lunch
Simple, easy-to-make, and pleasing to pint-sized taste buds—pizzadillas. It's the perfect combo pizza, and quesadilla all wrapped up. Blair over at The Seasoned Mom serves this savory dish with dipping sauce.
Skewered food often works for picky eaters, perhaps because there’s something of the lollipop about it. With this chicken satay dish from Eat Yourself Skinny, you get double the dose of protein from the chicken and the peanut sauce.
Choose-your-own-adventure meets the dinner table with this build-your-own-bowl idea from Liz's Healthy Table. All the choices are healthy with a choice of ready-to-eat teriyaki tofu, egg, edamame, bell pepper, and sugar snap peas. When kids get control over what goes on their plates, they might even be a little braver when tasting new foods.
High-Protein Meals for Picky Eaters to Add to Your Dinner Recipe Rotation
Yummy Toddler Food knows the challenges of getting little ones to eat something that'll fill their bellies! This four-ingredient recipe for chicken meatballs will be a crowd-pleaser, and they're super easy to whip up. Get the recipe from Yummy Toddler Food.
A classic carbonara has no cream and no heavy sauce because the eggs do all the work, making it both light and decadent at the same time. This recipe from Scrummy Lane gives lots of tips on how to make the perfect carbonara.
Aloha! Little eaters love sweet foods. So serve up salmon with teriyaki sauce and grilled pineapple. Even more, the meaty salmon texture tastes good in little mouths. Unicorns in the Kitchen gives us this easy 30-minute recipe that your half-pints will eat up (keep the pineapple for yourself!).
If your picky eater is hankering for something savory then this 30-minute instant pot hamburger helper packs in the protein. Stir in cheese when this delicious dish is ready to get your little one to eat up. If you don't have an instant pot, go here for the stove-top version.
Putting veg on the side of a simple rice dish allows kids to know exactly what they're eating and sometimes a suspicious ingredient is all it takes for a point-blank refusal to eat. This stir-fry recipe from our archives is a mix of sweet and savory flavors that's easy to prepare—just mince the onion small or omit it altogether.
Warm up your household with this mild chile con carne made just for kids. The best part besides the 18 grams of protein per serving is the four veggies in this delightful dish. Find the recipe at My Fussy Eater.
Sweet and savory is always a good combo, and this orange chicken recipe from Kitchen Sanctuary fits the description. This is a high protein-packed meal we’re sure will make picky eaters will rejoice.
Little diners will get hooked on these crunchy fish sticks from Super Healthy Kids. You'll be glad to know the breading has a secret ingredient—flax seeds—so these fish sticks are not only high in protein, but the crunchy outside and mild softer inside make them easy to gobble up.
A childhood favorite that's made up fresh? Sign us up! With 34 grams of protein per serving, this spaghetti and meatballs recipe from Shugary Sweets is perfect for picky eaters. She uses turkey meatballs to lighten up the dish. Add in a veggie, like carrots, with dipping sauce as a side dish.
When kids can get creative with their food at the table, they start seeing it as something other than "yucky." This chicken taco filling is the starting point for dinnertime creativity—add in other taco toppings like cheese, fresh tomato, avocado and lettuce, and those picky eaters might just surprise you! Head to Dinner At The Zoo for the recipe.
Don't let the picture put you off—plenty of picky eaters wouldn't go near a soup with the ingredients all mushed in together but Meredith at Feed Them Wisely says this delicious ginger coconut chicken soup can be deconstructed and all the ingredients served separately. While the soup option works for adults, kids get to taste the same flavors (and protein-packed soba noodles), just with a tweaked presentation—genius!
Sneaking veggies into a mac and cheese is super tempting as a parent and this recipe from A Sweet Pea Chef contains butternut squash and extra protein from Greek yogurt and parmesan cheese. This take on an old favorite can be prepped ahead of time and either stored in the refrigerator or frozen until ready to bake.
It’s back-to-school time again, and this mom’s viral video outlining rules for her son should inspire parents everywhere
Moms, here’s how you make the back-to-school transition as easy as possible. With first days right around the corner, one mom is going viral on TikTok for the very honest, very blunt list of rules she’s made for her son. You can tell this is a mom who suffers no fools—and who is setting her son up for a successful transition from summer back to the classroom.
“So I just got the notice that my son’s school starts up in a few weeks, and now it’s time for me to pull out the PowerPoint presentation on how the rules for back-to-school are gonna go,” the mom, who goes by @thicnicjack on TikTok, starts her video.
She continues, “It is also entitled, ‘What we not gonna do, because this ain’t that.'”
She then launches into the rules, starting with, “What we not gonna do is change up our stomach energy. You’ve been living on a diet of hot chips, chicken nuggets, and every popsicle and disgusting drink known to man, without one stomach ache. You’re not about to come to me talking about ‘my stomach hurt’ like you’ve got the intestinal tract of a geriatric Crohn’s patient. This ain’t that.”
Amen, mama. What is it about back-to-school time that makes tummy aches flare up like they do? We have our hunches.
Rule #2? “What we not gonna do is act like we can’t wake up. You’ve getting up at 6:77 every morning—and yes, I said 6:77 because it’s some ungodly hour that doesn’t exist—asking me about breakfast. This ain’t that.”
@thicnicjack continues through her list of rules in a similarly direct fashion, noting that her son will be preparing his clothes for school the night before and that he won’t be acting like he’s run out of school supplies on Day 2, after she “spent $75,000 making sure everything on that list was there.” Then she gets to one that will have every parent nodding along.
“What we not gonna do is tell me about reports, permission slips, and picture day packets the day before they’re due. I’m not about to get my blood pressure up running around to get supplies.”
In the comments, other parents are praising these no-nonsense rules.
“This is the best PSA ever for children,” one wrote. Another added, “Ma’am respectfully, do you do presentations via Zoom?? cause my boy needs this.”
Dining out with kids can be exhausting, but at these DC-area restaurants, kids have plenty to keep them entertained
If you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurants to eat in the DMV where kids are easily entertained, read on. From Pinstripes in Georgetown to cookie decorating at Firefly in Dupont, these unique eateries in Washington, DC (and beyond) have taken the guesswork out of keeping little hands busy while you wait for your table—and your meal. Take a night (or two!) off from dinner prep at one of these eateries in the greater DMV area where little eaters are easily entertained.
Sure, most restaurants have little coloring sheets and a few waxy crayons on hand for kids to scribble on, but Bartaco takes things a step further. This neighborhood drop in with an airy feel lets kids pick out a full size (!) coloring book—from Dora to Paw Patrol—and a handful of Crayola crayons to work with while they wait for their sesame beef tacos and seasoned corn wheels. Other standouts off the kids menu include "not spicy" guacamole and chips and a large tray filled with enough food for three kids (for just $14!).
Insider Tip: You can now order family packs to go ($49.50) and kids meals pre-packed in a Bartaco lunch box ($14).
A Mexican food spin on the pizza-dough-as-Play-Doh, Cactus Cantina offers hungry pint-sized customers a mound of tortilla dough for them to poke, squish, and roll until hangry mode passes—or until their delicious tacos, nachos, or the cheesiest of quesadillas arrive. Make sure you walk them over to the tortilla pressing machine so they can see how those chewy discs of masa goodness arrive on their plates.
Insider Tip: If your littles need to run off some energy pre or post-dining, Newark Park Playground featuring oversized flowers and log-shaped slides is a six-minute walk from the restaurant.
With vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, everyone can eat happily at Firefly! The kids’ menu includes universal crowd-pleasers like PB&J, mac ‘n cheese, meatballs with buttered noodles, and chicken nuggets. And the piece de resistance? Every child gets a cookie to decorate—and eat after they’ve finished their dinner, of course.
Pinstripes is a unique dining and entertainment venue that provides “sophisticated fun” through their events areas for parties (birthday, wedding, anniversary, corporate), Italian American bistro cuisine, weekend live blues and jazz, wine dinners, clubs and leagues, and mom and tot play dates. They serve strikingly good food alongside ongoing bowling and bocce sessions during the day and at night.
Insider Tip: Dine outdoors and you'll have views of the C&O Canal. If you're feeling inspired to dig into the history of this vista, take a tour on a canal boat. This attraction operates Wed.-Sun.
Tots in the know (information is power in this town, even among the pint-sized) head to the Capitol Hill location and ask for a look in the toybox. They get their pick of one to borrow while parents wait for some comfort food and maybe one of the diner's famed adult milkshakes. Our source at the Ted's Bulletin location in Fairfax tells us they also have a worth-a-look toybox. At any of the restaurant's locations, drooling over the mouth-watering homemade poptarts and other tasty treats in the bakery cases up front is another way to easily kill five minutes of your wait time.
When your little ones bug you to go to Franklin's it's not usually because of the yummy grub (which it is). It's the general store-meets-toy store that's part of the restaurant. If you can withstand the barrage of "Please can I get this? Please can I get this?" there's no better way to pass the time than the toy store, which recently expanded, doubling in size to accommodate even more toys, games, candy, gifts, trinkets and other goodies. Neighborhood parents also know that the general store boasts a vast selection of beer and wine for carry-out sale, unusual in Maryland.
The 21-and-over crowd may rule 18th Street in Adams Morgan after dark, but come weekend mornings, it’s the stroller set that packs this neighborhood mainstay. And they know their audience. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, The Diner starts playing cartoons on the big screen around 6 a.m. and kids are welcome to come to breakfast in their pjs. Oh, and there's also the impromptu story times.
You and your family have probably long loved the wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeria Paradiso’s three DMV locations. But did you know that they also have open kitchens where little ones can ooh and ahh at their pizzas being made. You might learn a thing or two yourself about pizza perfection.
The pizza is great at this neighborhood pie joint, but arguably the ping pong tables are even better—especially when they distract hangry toddlers! Older kids will like “searching” for the bathrooms, which are hidden behind secret panels. Everyone will love the pizza (with vegan and gluten-free options), and Mom and Dad (and adventurous tykes) should save room for the wood-roasted spaghetti squash, cauliflower, and beets. Or the Tin Roof Sundae. Or both—we won’t tell.
Insider Tip: Reservations are strongly recommended.
We know, we know—more pizza (but is that a bad thing?!). With craft beer for Mom and Dad and their Chicago-inspired deep dish for everyone, we always love us some Uno Pizzeria. Be sure to ask your waiter for some pizza dough for the kiddos to play with—just like Play-Doh, but not quite as eyebrow-raising if they “accidentally” eat some of that abstract dinosaur sculpture.
Why is it that dads always seem to have everything they could ever want? Maybe they genuinely don’t want anything that they don’t already own. Or it could be just that he never really mentions wanting something specific. We think there’s a good chance he’s dropped a hint or two, but we’re pretty sure those hints are along the lines of something practical. And listen, we love our dads and our partners, but we just don’t think socks or a cordless drill backup battery really show what they mean to us. We also don’t want to know that much about drill backup batteries. That means every year, Father’s Day gift shopping can be a serious guessing game.
You’ve probably already done the tie thing. The tools thing. The iTunes gift card thing. Those are all fine, but we think we’ve come up with a few ideas you might not have thought of yet and that dad isn’t expecting. Whether he’s a sports guy, a foodie, or a fashion-forward father, we’ve done our research (just like dad taught us). There are some really cool gifts out there—or rather, right here—that are sure to excite him. So start visualizing your dad, stepdad, husband, partner, and any other dad on your list and check out these Father’s Day gifts.
Junk Food & Food Food Trivia
Brass Monkey/Amazon
Boring trivia? Not here. This delightfully pointless game covers all sorts of food knowledge from a bunch of misleading categories (like 'Hunger Games'—all about eating competitions). Junk Food & Food Food Trivia ($14.00)—Buy Here!
Bombas Men's Golf Ankle Sock 4-Pack Caddie
Bombas
Now, before you remind us that we seemed anti-socks-as-gifts, these aren't regular socks. They're Bombas. You've probably heard sock-wearers everywhere sing their praises and that's because they're honestly 100% worth it. We're guessing they're similar to walking on clouds. They also walk the walk by donating one for one. They come in multiple colors and styles, but we're fond of this 4-pack with bonus Bombas Hex Tec Sock Bag. Bombas Men's Golf Ankle Sock 4-Pack Caddie ($72.00)—Buy Here!
Omaha Steaks Premier Father's Day Gift
Omaha Steaks
If we’re already drooling, you know dad will love this gift from Omaha Steaks. Let him indulge in the tender & savory cuts of Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignons, juicy Boneless Pork Chops, flavorful PureGround Delmonico Ribeye Burgers, and much more. Omaha Steaks Premier Father's Day Gifs (Starting at $99.00)—Buy Here!
The '80s called and Lego answered. This retro game includes Pac-Man, Blinky, Clyde, and even a light-up brick for the coin slot. It's not a fully functional game, but who needs that when you have such a cool project to complete and show off? Lego Pac-Man Arcade ($269.99)—Buy Here!
Supernatural VR
Supernatural VR
This at-home workout is perfect for multitasking dads who just don’t have enough hours in the day to make it to the gym. Busy parent of three Kelly Ripa shared that Supernatural is “everything I’ve been looking for!” when it comes to fitness, and adds that “at-home workouts are here to stay and the convenience that they elicit is hard to compete with.”
Work out in exotic locations around the globe like Machu Picchu, The Maldives, or The Great Wall of China and to today’s top artists such as Billie Eilish, Megan Thee Stallion, The Weeknd, and more! Every day, a new workout is released and for those who aren’t in a fitness routine yet, there is an option for every fitness-level so everyone can move, have fun and feel rewarded. Along with a range of intensities, workouts include four different modalities—Flow (Cardio), Stretching, Meditation, and Boxing. Supernatural is available on Meta Quest 2 with pricing at $19/month or $179/annually. Supernatural VR—Start Now!
It's not often something as simple as a grooming kit has a 5-star rating. Even if he doesn't know what all of these tools do, he'll have a full 10 of them at his disposal for all his non-beard-grooming needs (and you can help explain how to use the full Arsenal). The Arsenal Mens Grooming Kit ($14.99)—Buy Here!
Tinybeans
Tinybeans
No, it doesn't come in a box, but aside from our obvious love, 150,000 5-star reviews from our users agree. With Tinybeans, you can easily and privately capture and organize your kiddo’s best moments and milestones in a single platform. Its intuitive interface, along with features like photobook creation and easy customization, make organizing and searching for memories a breeze. Tinybeans—Get it Here Free!
The 2 Million Dollar Puzzle
MSCHF
This is the best kind of chaotic mischief. A $20 puzzle. A chance to win between $1 and $1,000,000. Once dad completes the 500-piece puzzle, scan the QR code with your phone. Enter your secret prize code (found on the paper insert in your puzzle box) and learn what you’ve won. This isn't your average jigsaw. The 2 Million Dollar Puzzle ($20.00)—Buy Here!
Bespoke Post
Bespoke Post
Bespoke Post is a seriously sharp subscription service for the modern dude in your life. Each box is built around a specific story or theme, with the goal of introducing you to something new—a better way to shave, a stylish take on barware, a new hobby; stuff like that.Stay classy, San Diego (or wherever you are). Bespoke Post Subscription (Starting at $49.00)—Buy Here!
RadRunner 2 Electric Bike
Rad Power Bikes
Commute. Explore. Whatever dad does, he can do it in style with the ebike that's been hailed "the best affordable electric utility bike". With over 330 possible accessory combinations, he can customize this moped-style ebike to his heart’s content. Want the numbers? The RadRunner2 offers up to 45 miles per charge, can support up to 300lbs, and has a 750W motor. Available in 3 colors. RadRunner 2 Electric Bike (Starting at $1449.00)—Buy Here!
The dad on the go is gonna need his trusty cooler, and this LAKA Cooler delivers. Available in 9 colors, it keeps ice for up to 10 days. Add a telescoping handle, serious durability, cup holder, bottle opener, and rubber wheels and you have a gift dad will use for years to come. LAKA 30 Cooler ($239.99)—Buy Here!
Mystery Tackle Box
Mystery Tackle Box
Does his Facebook profile picture feature him proudly displaying a freshly-caught bass? The Mystery Tackle Box is for him. Choose between a standard or pro plan for bass, multi-species, panfish and trout, walleye, or inshore saltwater fishing, and every month, he'll get a box full of bait, lures, and tackle to help fuel his fishy hobby. No two boxes are the same, either. Mystery Tackle Box (Starting at $48.45)—Buy Here!
National Park Welcome Hoodie
Parks Project
So this is a pretty cool vintage-fit hoodie. But it also gives back. Parks Project has a goal "to protect and preserve parklands for generations to come by educating, advocating, volunteering, and activating park supporters to get involved in conservation." Not only are you gifting his new favorite hoodie, but you'll be contributing to something bigger, too. (Heads up that it runs small, so be sure to go up a size or two.) National Park Welcome Hoodie ($72.00)—Buy Here!
Virgin Experience Gifts
Virgin Experience Gifts
What do you get the guy that has it all? An experience he's never had. From canopy zip-lining, murder mystery theater dinners, the ultimate home date night kit, race car drives, and more, Virgin Experience Gifts offers something for everyone, almost everywhere. Pick something for dad to do, or hook him up with a gift card to choose his own. Virgin Experience Gifts (Price Varies)—Buy Here!
Stitch Fix Men
Stitch Fix
Even if dad hates shopping, Stitch Fix for Men makes it easy for him. All he has to do is take their Style Quiz (or you can do it for him—they're used to it) and he'll get 5 curated pieces delivered to him. Whether he chooses to get his Fix monthly or on-demand, he'll find pieces that fit right out of the box, and if they don't work exactly the way he wants, he can send them back (free) with notes to make his next Fix perfect. He can even preview his pieces before they ship. It's the gift that keeps on giving. Stitch Fix Men ($20.00+)—Buy Here!
Threes Knees Spicy Gift Set
Bushwick Kitchen
Spicy Honey, Spicy Maple, and Gochujang Sriracha plus a BK kitchen towel create a divinely spicy set for the heat lovers among us. And don't worry; they're not so hot that you can't taste the actual (super yummy) flavors of these kickin' condiments. Threes Knees Spicy Gift Set ($49.99)—Buy Here!
Vibrating Pliability Mini Sphere
TB12 Sports
A portable massage sphere, this little gadget from TB12 Sports is for dads of all shapes and sizes. It relieves tension, warms up muscles, and basically feels awesome. Vibrating Pliability Mini Sphere ($99.00)—Buy Here!
Beer and Bourbon Liquor Peanuts Tin
Damn, Man
He'll probably assume an I.P.A. is in his Father's Day future, so surprise him with this tin of boozy peanuts. Just strong enough to make them super flavorful, they have a sweet and cocktail-y kick. Beer and Bourbon Liquor Peanuts Tin ($24.00)—Buy Here!
Beard Club Ultimate Beard & Trimmer Kit
Beard Club
Maybe you expected a shave kit on the list, but we promise you didn't expect this shave kit. The Beard Club Ultimate Kit has everything he needs for his best beard ever. Plus, the over 3,500 5-star reviews from happy guys speak for themselves. Beard Club Ultimate Beard & Trimmer Kit ($125.00)—Buy Here!
Superman 85th Diamond Anniversary Logo T-shirt
DC Shop
Even if he already owns a bunch of superhero tees, even if he already owns a bunch of Superman tees, the Diamond Anniversary t-shirt is a must for any fan. It comes in royal blue, light blue, and white. Superman 85th Diamond Anniversary Logo T-shirt ($25.00)—Buy Here!
Viking Acacia And Slate Cheese Board
Sur la Table
No one doesn't like charcuterie. No one. This acacia and slate cheese board from foodie fave Viking is sleek, functional, and perfect for parties or movie night. Set includes a wood board with slate inlay, two cheese knives, and three pinch bowls. Viking Acacia And Slate Cheese Board ($179.95)—Buy Here!
Reclaimed Whiskey Barrel DIY Watch Kit
Original Grain
Can't pick? How about something that covers all the bases whether he's a watch lover, a DIY fan, a whiskey connoisseur, or a vintage appreciator? This DIY kit from Original Grain lets dad make his own timepiece (and also comes in reclaimed military wood or reclaimed German beer barrel wood). What he creates is not only a very, very cool watch, but a keepsake he can be proud of. Reclaimed Whiskey Barrel DIY Watch Kit ($329.00)—Buy Here!
Herd & Grace Aussie Feast Starter Box
Herd & Grace
He won't find these cuts at the neighborhood grocery store. They're premium curated cuts from Tasmania and South Australia that are typically reserved for fine dining restaurants (the kind without chicken nuggets on the menu, so it's not likely dad's made it to one of those too often these days) and would cost at least $350. It's a major deal that doesn't feel like one at all. Herd & Grace Aussie Feast Starter Box ($134.99)—Buy Here!
SolidWork Safety Goggles
SolidWork/Amazon
Why would we include something that seems ultra-practical in a list of gifts? Because these safety goggles from SolidWork have over 11,600 reviews giving them almost 5 stars. That's some goggle love. SolidWork Safety Goggles ($19.99)—Buy Here!
Everdure Cube Portable Charcoal Grill
Everdure/Amazon
Everdure by Heston's wildly popular Cube 360 Portable Charcoal BBQ is the ultimate portable charcoal barbeque, uniquely designed to let him grill, smoke, and roast his way to outdoor cooking bliss. Available in 5 colors, too. Everdure Cube Portable Charcoal Grill ($156.99+)—Buy Here!
Nostalgic Chocolate Bars 5pk
Sugar Plum Chocolates
Apple Pie, Pancakes and Syrup, Fruity Flakes, PB&J, Milk and Cookies—what more could a dad ask for? Pick one of each, or snag five of his favorite flavors. Nostalgic Chocolate Bars 5pk ($25.00)—Buy Here!
Bond Heart Smart Necklace
Bond Touch
Obviously, anyone can wear a heart necklace. But even if dad isn't really a jewelry guy, this black (or white) heart necklace is more than just an accessory. It actually holds the heartbeats of those you love. Wrap your hand around the pendant and feel your loved ones' heartbeats without an internet connection. Anytime. Anywhere. Upload and request the heartbeats through the app, pair it with your Bond Heart, and you're set for up to 21 days before it needs to be recharged. Pretty special, right? (And if dad isn't into necklaces, check out Bond Touch's wristbands.) Bond Heart Smart Necklace ($99.00)—Buy Here!
Celebrate dad (bods) this Father’s Day with a few of our favorite things. Enjoy two large classic Banana Pudding cups, two Banana Pudding cookies, and two Double Fudge Brownies. Maybe he'll share? Dad Bod Dessert Bundle ($60.00)—Buy Here!
Colsen Tabletop Indoor/Outdoor Ethanol Fireplace
Colson/Amazon
Concrete and fire. That's a Father's Day gift recipe for the books. This portable fire tabletop is fueled by smokeless, odorless rubbing alcohol with flame arrestor and can be used indoor or out. Seriously. Colsen Tabletop Indoor/Outdoor Ethanol Fireplace ($39.96)—Buy Here!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
We don’t know your kid, but if yours is anything like ours, they can sniff out a piece of kale hiding in a quesadilla faster than you can pop a straw in a juice box. In other words, getting them to eat healthy stuff isn’t always so easy. But here’s our tip. Don’t be sneaky about it. Instead, be creative and work with what you’ve got. Check out our tried-and-true ways to get your kids to eat healthier—without all of the disguises—because Mama didn’t raise no fool.
Chicken Nuggets
Is there anything that’s been reinvented more than the chicken nugget? We don’t think so. From alphabet shapes to dinosaurs, spicy to sweet, chicken nuggets come in every shape and size. The bad news? They’re often packed with preservatives and sodium. Instead of buying them in bulk, give this panko chicken recipe a go—it’s such an easy healthy food swap. Easy to make in batches, the panko holds its crunch and you can even crisp it up in an air fryer in no time, if you’re eating it throughout the week.
Macaroni & Cheese
Doesn’t every kid love mac & cheese? Who can blame them? And secretly, who doesn’t take a bite out of their leftovers before loading dishwasher? For a healthier riff on mac & cheese, try making a pot of green mac and cheese with spinach, peas and broccoli. The bright color and cheesy, creamy texture rings all the right bells.
Buttered Noodles
What is it about buttered noodles that kids love so much? Oh. Right. There’s butter, and then there are noodles. So it’s pretty perfect on the palate but falls short in nutritive strength. So, we have two options here. Serve it with protein-enriched or whole-grain pasta, or just serve it less frequently (but don’t mess with a masterpiece). We all need a reason to live, right?
Grilled Cheese
Dang it. We like these, too. But for the sake of being “good parents,” let’s explore options with the Grand Dame of Kid Food: The Grilled Cheese. First, switch around your cooking method. Instead of bathing it in a skillet of butter, batch bake them on a sheet with a light mist of olive oil on the pan. Another option is to pack some nutrition into your bread choice. Pass on the white bread and see how sprouted grains pleases your kids, instead. Finally, you can pack it full of spinach, ham, or sliced tomato if you don’t have a purist waiting for lunch to be served. How’s that for healthy food swaps?
Quesadilla
Lentils are a great source of protein, which helps keep you full for longer. Since the cooked lentils are pureed and mixed with salsa, they taste like refried beans, and picky eaters will be none the wiser. Check out our recipe for Grilled Lentil Quesadillas for a healthier alternative to the classic.
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Pizza
Anything you pick up or have delivered is going to come with a hefty health bill, when you add up all the salt (and frequently, sugar) found in pizza. But it’s so good. And so easy. Nonetheless, pizza made at home is not only fun, but also free from the hidden health hazards you’ll find in the delivery box. A prime reason to implement a healthy food swap here. Try making personal pizzas on a pita bread base, and let them choose toppings from an assortment of veggies and proteins. You can broil it for a quick fix, or try grilling it for another exciting twist.
Tacos
We take Taco Tuesday seriously, except sometimes it falls on a Wednesday or Thursday. But weekly tacos are a thing, so keeping the ingredients exciting is key to keeping the kiddos coming back for more. Instead of ground beef, cheese, lettuce and sour cream, try a vegetarian taco night with sauteed beans and mushrooms. home made guac (or hefty avocado slices), diced tomatoes and salsa. Or, go rogue with cheeseburger tacos. Brown turkey and diced onions for the filler, and let them top it with shredded lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mustard and cheese. Basically anything can be adapted to taco form, and we’re here for it. We bet your kids will be, too.
Spaghetti
Amp up your spaghetti game by sautéing shredded carrots and zucchini with garlic before dumping your favorite jar of pre-made sauce into the pan to simmer. For meat-lovers, brown some turkey sausage and add a dash of fennel to it to make it seem like Italian sausage. Noodles get an upgrade when you choose whole grain pasta or higher protein pasta, instead of the regular noodles. There are a million ways to add nutrition into spaghetti without sacrificing flavor, but be sure to check the back of your sauce jar—some brands are much worse than others about adding unneeded sugar to their sauce.
This dad’s viral TikTok series about how his toddlers approach mealtime is a hilarious must-see for all parents
Feeding toddlers can be an absolute minefield, as anyone who’s done it knows all too well. They’re picky, they’re messy, their tastes change from day to day (and hour to hour… and minute to minute). They knock over plates, fall off their chairs, and sometimes their chicken nuggets are just used as a spoon to slurp ketchup off of instead of actual food to eat. And one dad has captured every moment of the chaos in a side-splitting series of TikTok videos where he imitates his toddlers’ eating habits with perfect accuracy.
@bkotpa on TikTok, who describes himself as a “Work from home Dad/Husband” who is “Just goofin around,” started making videos where he imitates how his 1.5-year-old eats, and they’re perfect.
From putting the fruit pouch cap directly into his mouth to ending the meal by smashing his sandwich and throwing it off the table, this could literally be anyone’s toddler because we have all been here. Part 2, which features the mess that happens when crunchy snacks enter the chat, is even better.
The videos were so popular that this dad decided to make a few more, but this time, he’s imitating his 4-year-old. Demanding his sandwich be cut into “four pieces, long ways, thank youuu,” taking the pieces apart to lick off the PB&J, and then demanding some of his little brother’s baby cereal instead—this is the most relatable mealtime content of all time.
Part 2 nails it yet again—we’re howling at the part where, despite his dad’s repeated asks not to lean his chair, he topples backward at the end of the video, because of course he does.
These videos are an excellent reminder that all parents go through these struggles, and this too shall pass. Also, if you don’t already keep a Tide pen near your dining table for ketchup stain freak-outs, this is your sign to invest in one.
Chicken nuggets take on a whole new fun form in this recipe from Brooke McLay of Cheeky Kitchen. Use cookie cutters to transform these homemade nuggets that are baked and not fried. Fill us in below to tell us how your chicken and veggie nuggets turned out.
Ingredients for Chicken and Veggie Nuggets:
1/2 lb ground chicken
1 package thawed veggie
1 egg
2 c panko bread crumbs
1 tsp of onion salt
Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Combine veggies and egg in a blender, and blend until pureed.
3. Combine puree, chicken, and onion salt into a large bowl and mix together with a fork.
4. Spread a thin layer of panko crumbs on a large cutting board.
5. Flatten the chicken mixture over the crumbs until it is 1/2 inch thick.
6. Sprinkle more crumbs, salt and pepper on top.
7. Use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.
8. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick spray.
9. Place nuggets on a cookie sheet and bake for 14 to 16 minutes.
Photo and recipe courtesy of Brooke McLay of Cheeky Kitchen
We love the fact that this requires us to throw stuff away
Over 100 years ago, Maria Montessori changed the world with her inspirational education philosophy focused on the curiosity and dignity of young children. Known for its peaceful environments, organized spaces, and clever materials that encourage hands-on learning in everything from practical life (think sweeping and getting dressed) to math and literacy, studies have linked Montessori environments to higher math and literacy skills.
Bring that philosophy home with a Montessori playroom: Imagine everything having a place and including beautiful things that inspire focused, engaged play for minutes—or even hours—on end, basically, a parent’s dream. To help make it happen, we’ve created a step-by-step guideline.
Simple, clean, beautiful, and child-focused: that’s what you’re working towards when you create a Montessori playroom. Think natural materials, light colors on the walls, sturdy wooden furniture, a soft rug, bright sunlight, and a calm atmosphere.
As you plan your room, build a cozy corner with pillows or cushions for dreaming and book reading, designate a space for active play, and include easy-to-access shelves at the child level.
The best Montessori environments nurture curiosity and independence by design. Everything starts with the child. Nothing’s off-limits, and materials (the Montessori word for toys, art supplies, and everything else used to promote learning) always have a designated place so children can take things out and put them back again, all by themselves.
As you put together your playroom, think about what your child will be able to see and reach: a book basket at their level is better than a high shelf, as is an art display that shows their newest masterpiece where they can see it.
What to Ditch
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First step: kick the clutter. We recommend stocking your space with a few well-made toys and a bin of books. Box up plastic gadgets with missing parts, and toss the free toys that came with chicken nuggets. There’s no need for expensive screens or toys with buttons, batteries, or remotes. Montessori philosophies emphasize real over imaginary, so instead of animated characters, consider picking puzzles or books that feature realistic drawings of animals and plants.
Put away toys your child has outgrown or tricky games he’s not ready for yet. A Montessori playroom will look different for a two-year-old than for a five-year-old. Once your child has mastered a material—like zipping the zippers on a dressing frame, a Montessori work made to help kids learn to dress themselves, move it to a storage closet and put something fresh in its place. Plan to rotate toys in your Montessori space every few months.
Wooden shelves keep your Montessori playroom organized and streamlined. We like Ikea’s low wooden shelves paired with woven baskets and bins.
If you have space, bring in furniture that gives kids a chance to climb and use their big muscles. The Pikler triangle is a Montessori-inspired climber that can be adjusted as your child grows.
A soft rug that invites your child to settle in and explore Montessori materials on the floor creates a peaceful, cozy space. You might also add in a child-sized table and chairs for snack time, painting, or writing, like these.
Montessori classrooms have five areas: language, math, practical life, sensorial and cultural studies. A Montessori-inspired playroom can incorporate items from these areas, depending on your budget, how closely you want to stick to Montessori principles and your child’s interests. Whatever you pick, choose quality over quantity, and wood, not plastic.
Montessori materials are self-correcting. If you put a puzzle piece in the wrong place, it doesn't fit, so you take it out and try again. If a child stacks graduated blocks in the famed Montessori tower in the wrong order, the tower will tip over—the child tries again until the tower stays up. Whether it's the tower, a simple shape puzzle for infants or toddlers, or an animal puzzle for older kids, the best Montessori-inspired materials are sturdy and teach by design.
If you’re overwhelmed with the idea of stocking your playroom, check out the subscription kits like LOVEVERY which pack up age-based materials in a single box.
There are more beautiful, practical, and high-quality materials to bring into your space:
A set of wooden blocks are a must for a Montessori playroom. They’ll grow with your child since they do everything from help babies work on grasping hold of things to four-year-olds building epic skyscrapers.
Preparing for everyday life, from getting dressed to cleaning up, is key in Montessori environments for toddlers and preschoolers. In your playroom, stash a pint-sized broom and dustpan in a corner and add dressing frames. Other practical-life materials include a small glass pitcher and glasses for pouring water and tweezers and scissors to build fine motor skills.
Preschool-aged kids are ready for hands-on methods of learning letters and practicing writing. Sandpaper letters like these are common in Montessori classrooms, or you can choose a Montessori-ish material like this wooden letter puzzle from Melissa & Doug. Add paper and pencils with a child-sized clipboard, thick watercolor paper, and a nice set of paints.
The good news? Not everything for a Montessori playroom comes from a store. Outside items like shiny rocks or daisies for flower arranging (a popular Montessori activity) make for affordable additions.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
