Little Duck Family Child Care

Toddlers need protein to fuel growth, support brain development, and keep their little bodies moving. But when they’re still getting teeth and are at higher risk of choking, choosing the right snacks can feel tricky. The goal is to offer soft, nutrient-dense options that are easy to chew, swallow, and pack for daycare or outings. I also wrote a great piece on high protein foods for hungry teens you might also enjoy! Below are safe, high-protein snack ideas that balance convenience and peace of mind: Quick High-Protein Snack Ideas Greek yogurt pouches or cups (look for unsweetened or lightly sweetened options) Cottage cheese (serve plain or mixed with mashed fruit for flavor) Hummus with soft dippers (like steamed veggie sticks or very soft pita pieces) Mashed avocado with beans (black beans or white beans mashed smooth for spreadable texture) Soft scrambled eggs (cooked gently so they’re fluffy and easy to gum) Mini turkey or chicken meatballs (made tender with breadcrumbs an...

September is a busy month for families—back-to-school schedules, new routines, and, for daycare providers, the challenge of feeding little ones nutritious snacks that don’t break the bank. The good news? September is one of the best months for fresh, affordable produce. By leaning on what’s in season and watching for common sales, you can whip up snacks that are quick, easy, and budget-friendly.  Here are some great tips for packing daycare lunches . What’s in Season in September Buying in-season produce means you get the best flavor at the best price. Here’s what’s usually plentiful in September: Apples 🍎 Pears Plums Peaches Grapes Melons (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon) Tomatoes Cucumbers Carrots Zucchini Bell peppers Corn Potatoes Squash (early varieties) What’s Commonly on Sale in September Beyond fresh produce, September often brings deals on: Back-to-school snack packs (crackers, granola bars, yogurt tubes) Cheese sticks Nut-free spreads (like sunflo...

September is the perfect month to dive into fresh routines, embrace the cooler weather, and enjoy the changing seasons with your daycare group. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to create fun, engaging, and educational activities for little ones. With a mix of outdoor play, creative crafts, and simple group games, you can make September memorable without breaking the bank. Here are some easy, cheap (or even free!) activities you can try with your daycare kids this fall: Outdoor Adventures Spending time outside in September is a great way to soak up the last bit of warmth before winter arrives. Nature Scavenger Hunt – Collect leaves, acorns, pinecones, or rocks while exploring your neighborhood or local park. Cloud Watching – Lay out a blanket and see what shapes the kids can find in the sky. Leaf Pile Fun – Rake leaves together and let the kids jump and play in the pile. Chalk Art Gallery – Hand out chalk and let the kids turn the sidewalk into their own outdoor museum. S...