With the new year often inspiring improvement goals, including child brain health, many British parents are focusing on healthier lifestyles for their children. Recent data from EDURINO shows a 28% rise in searches for “healthy kids foods”.* If you’re wondering which snacks support cognitive development, early-years educational experts at EDURINO, alongside Lucy Upton, Paediatric Dietitian and Feeding Therapist at The Children’s Dietitian, share key brain-boosting ingredients.
Child brain health-boosting ingredients for smarter snacking
Nuts
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are excellent for supporting brain health. They improve memory, learning skills, and coordination. Lucy Upton advises, “Serve nuts appropriately for young children; avoid whole nuts for under-fives.”
Tip: Add milled nuts to trail mixes with pretzels and chocolate, or make oat and nut granola bars for lunchboxes.
Fish
Salmon offers healthy fats like omega-3 and DHA, essential for child brain health development, the nervous system, and vision. It may even boost IQ in children.
Tip: Transform salmon into homemade fish fingers or nuggets to appeal to fussy eaters.
Blueberries
Packed with antioxidants, blueberries enhance memory and protect the brain from oxidative stress. “Dark red and purple foods, rich in anthocyanins, are fantastic for brain health,” says Lucy.
Tip: Add blueberries to cupcakes, donuts, or pancakes for a healthy twist.
Red cabbage
Rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, red cabbage boosts attention, language, and memory. It also provides vitamins K, C, and folate for cognitive function.
Tip: Make roasted red cabbage crisps in the oven or air fryer for a crunchy snack.
Pumpkin seeds
High in zinc and magnesium, pumpkin seeds improve nerve signalling and memory. Lucy recommends them for brain development. homemade cinnamon sugar pumpkin seeds
Tip: Roast pumpkin seeds with cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar for a light, nutritious snack.
Oats
A superfood with slow-releasing energy, oats help maintain focus and reduce sugar crashes.
Tip: Prepare porridge or overnight oats with different toppings to keep breakfast exciting.
Oranges
Rich in vitamin C, oranges support neurotransmitter production, aiding memory, learning, and mood regulation.
Tip: Make orange and walnut granola bars or enjoy easy-peelers straight from the fruit bowl.
Why nutrition matters in child brain health
Brigid Shine, EYFS teacher at EDURINO, states, “Children’s brains develop rapidly, especially in early years. Diet shapes focus, learning, and emotional management.” Prioritise nutrient-rich foods while enjoying occasional treats in moderation.
For more tips on healthy eating for kids, visit EDURINO.
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