How Do I Choose the Best Cereal for Kids?

When choosing a cereal for kids, it is important to pick a cereal that is palatable and appealing, as well as nutritional. Even the most well-balanced cereal for kids won't be beneficial if your child refuses to eat it. Supermarkets occasionally offer free samples of cereal products and this is one way to see if your child will like it. Also, don't be fooled by gimmicky sales pitches or television commercials. Buy a cereal that has the right balance of good taste, essential vitamins and minerals, and fiber.

Sugary cereals may be enticing for many kids, but these are not the best choice. Read the labels carefully and compare the sugar content. If the cereal is low in sugar, that's a good start. When buying cereal for kids and adults, look for those made with whole grains.

One way to satisfy your child's sweet tooth without the excess refined sugar is to choose a cereal for kids that has raisins. Raisins are naturally sweet and offer wholesome nutrition, such as fiber and vitamins.

If you're buying cereal for kids younger than two, you'll want to choose a fortified formula that is easily digested. Toddlers and young children also need a cereal that is enriched with iron to help their development. Children of all ages will benefit from hot cereal, such as oatmeal or cream of wheat. Even the ready-to-eat pouches that are available in various flavors offer the wholesome goodness of whole grains and a decent amount of fiber.

Whole grain oat cereals are naturally low in sugar, considered heart healthy, and recommended by nutrition experts. You can also feel good about giving your children this whole grain oat cereal as an in-between meal snack. They are a good alternative to potato chips or crackers, both which are high in sodium and fat.

According to nutritional experts, most children do not receive adequate fiber in their diets. If you're looking for a hearty cold cereal for kids that will fill your child and keep him focused on school activities, try shredded wheat. The fiber in shredded wheat makes them more filling than most crispy rice cereals. If your child refuses to eat the sugar free shredded wheat, try frosted shredded wheat cereal instead.