Every parent wants their child to grow up healthy and strong, but sometimes, getting enough nutrients into a picky eater or a super active kid can feel like a Herculean task. If you’re looking for a convenient and effective way to help your child achieve healthy weight gain or simply boost their nutritional intake, a well-chosen protein shake can be a game-changer.

These aren’t just any shakes; we’re talking about specially formulated children’s nutritional shakes designed with growing bodies in mind. They pack essential vitamins, minerals, and, of course, protein, to support everything from muscle development to immune function. Finding the best kids protein shake for weight gain involves looking at ingredients, taste, and overall nutritional balance.

We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top 5 picks, focusing on quality, effectiveness, and kid-friendliness. Let’s dive in!

Why Consider a Kids Protein Shake for Weight Gain?

Before we jump into the reviews, it’s helpful to understand why these shakes can be beneficial:

• Bridging Nutritional Gaps: For picky eaters, these shakes can ensure they get crucial vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients they might be missing.
• Supporting Active Lifestyles: Kids who are constantly on the go or involved in sports burn a lot of calories. A protein shake can provide quick, sustained energy and aid muscle recovery.
• Healthy Weight Gain: Some children struggle to gain weight due to various reasons. These shakes offer calorie-dense, nutrient-rich options that are easy to consume, promoting healthy weight gain.
• Convenience: They’re quick to prepare or ready-to-drink, perfect for busy mornings, after-school snacks, or on-the-go nutrition.

Now, let’s explore some of the best kids protein shake for weight gain options available today.

Product Reviews: Our Top 5 Picks

1. PediaSure Grow & Gain with Immune Support

PediaSure Grow & Gain is often the first name that comes to mind when parents think about children’s nutritional shakes, and for good reason! It’s a clinically proven formula designed to help kids grow, especially those who might be lagging in development or at risk for undernutrition. Beyond just calories and protein, it’s fortified with an impressive 27 vitamins and minerals, including specific nutrients like zinc, vitamins A, D, C, E, and selenium, all crucial for robust immune support. Parents love that it’s a #1 pediatrician-recommended brand, offering peace of mind along with delicious flavors that kids genuinely enjoy.

• Key Features:

  • Clinically proven to help kids grow when taking 2 servings per day.
  • Designed for kids who are behind on growth and need to gain weight.
  • Contains 7 key nutrients for immune support, including protein, zinc, vitamins A & D, and antioxidants (C, E, selenium).
  • Provides complete, balanced nutrition with 27 vitamins & minerals and 7g protein.
  • Non-GMO, gluten-free, no artificial growth hormones, and includes DHA omega-3.

  • 1 pediatrician-recommended brand for kids ages 2-13.

  • Great as a breakfast supplement, after-school snack, or anytime treat.

• Pros:

  • Widely available and trusted brand.
  • Clinically studied efficacy for growth and weight gain.
  • Excellent for immune system support.
  • Generally well-liked by kids for its taste.
  • Convenient ready-to-drink format.

• Cons:

  • Can be higher in sugar compared to some specialized options.
  • Not suitable for those looking for a plant-based option.

• User Impressions: Many parents rave about PediaSure’s effectiveness, reporting noticeable improvements in their child’s weight and energy levels. Kids often view it as a treat, making it easy to incorporate into their routine. The immune support aspect is a huge bonus for many families.

• See it on Amazon here

2. Orgain Organic Kids Protein Nutritional Shake, Chocolate

Orgain steps in as a fantastic option for parents seeking an organic and “cleaner” approach to their child’s nutrition. While this specific chocolate shake contains grass-fed milk protein and whey protein concentrate, it boasts 25% less sugar than many leading kids’ protein shakes, which is a big win for health-conscious families. It’s packed with 3g of fiber and 22 vitamins and minerals, including a blend of fruits and vegetables like acai, apple, beet, and kale, ensuring a broad spectrum of nutrients. It’s a convenient, ready-to-drink shake that fits perfectly into lunchboxes or as a post-sports refuel.

• Key Features:

  • 25% less sugar compared to leading kids protein nutritional shakes.
  • Gluten-free, USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Kosher, no soy ingredients, and free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
  • Provides immune support with 3g fiber and 22 vitamins and minerals (A, B12, C, D, E, Biotin, Calcium, Zinc, etc.).
  • Crafted with organic ingredients, including grass-fed milk protein and whey protein concentrate, plus a fruit and vegetable blend.
  • Portable nutrition for growing kids ages 4+, perfect for picky eaters, on-the-go meals, or snacks.
  • Each carton provides 180 calories.

• Pros:

  • Organic ingredients and lower sugar content appeal to many parents.
  • Includes a beneficial fruit and vegetable blend.
  • Ready-to-drink for ultimate convenience.
  • Good source of protein and essential nutrients for active kids.

• Cons:

  • Though “Plant-Based” is listed in the general features, this specific shake contains dairy protein, which might confuse some looking for strictly plant-derived options.
  • Taste might not appeal to all children, especially if they are accustomed to sweeter shakes.

• User Impressions: Parents frequently praise the organic ingredients and the lower sugar count, feeling good about what they’re giving their children. Kids often enjoy the chocolate flavor, and the portability makes it a hit for busy schedules.

• See it on Amazon here

3. TruHeight Growth Protein Shake (Chocolate Milk Flavor)

TruHeight takes a specialized approach, focusing on supporting growth and development in children and teens. What truly makes this shake stand out is its commitment to very low sugar content (only 2g per serving!) coupled with a robust blend of 18 vitamins and minerals, including 16.5g of protein, Calcium, Magnesium, and Vitamin D – all vital for bone strength. Endorsed by pediatricians for growth, it’s an ideal choice for parents specifically targeting height and overall well-being, especially for those picky eaters who need an extra nutritional push for healthy weight gain.

• Key Features:

  • Delicious protein powder with a responsibly sourced collection of 18 vitamins and minerals.
  • Contains 16.5g of protein, Calcium, Magnesium, and Vitamin D for growth and development.
  • Less than half the sugar of conventional kids’ products (only 2g per serving).

  • 1 Pediatrician Recommended Brand for Growth & Development (IQVIA ProVoice Survey, March 2025).

  • Excellent for picky eaters and supports healthy weight gain.
  • Made in a USA GMP certified facility.

• Pros:

  • Pediatrician-endorsed with a focus on growth and bone health.
  • Remarkably low sugar content (2g), which is a huge plus for healthy eating habits.
  • High protein per serving (16.5g) to support muscle and overall development.
  • Great taste reported by users, making it appealing for children.

• Cons:

  • Primarily focuses on growth, which might be a more specific need than general nutrition.
  • Limited flavor options (chocolate and vanilla).

• User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight how much their children love the taste, making it easy to integrate into daily routines. Parents appreciate the low sugar and the targeted support for growth, with many reporting positive results in their child’s overall health and energy.

• See it on Amazon here

4. Orgain Kids Protein Powder Shake Mix, Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

For those who prefer a more versatile option than a ready-to-drink carton, Orgain’s Kids Protein Powder Shake Mix is an excellent choice. This vanilla bean ice cream flavored powder brings 8g of grass-fed protein, 22 essential vitamins and minerals, and a comprehensive blend of 10 fruit and vegetable powders to the table. Developed by a father and doctor, it’s designed to be easily mixed into milk, smoothies, or even pancake batter, offering flexible nutrition for growing kids aged 4+. Like its ready-to-drink counterpart, it adheres to high standards: gluten-free, no soy, kosher, and free of artificial ingredients.

• Key Features:

  • Powder mix with 8g of grass-fed protein per serving.
  • Contains 22 vitamins and minerals for immune support (A, B12, C, D, E, Biotin, Calcium, Zinc, etc.).
  • Includes 10 fruit and veggie powders for added whole-food nutrition.
  • Higher standards: Gluten-free, no soy ingredients, Kosher, and free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
  • Versatile nutrition for kids ages 4+, ideal for picky eaters, snacks, or meal enhancements.
  • 180 calories per serving (2 scoops).

• Pros:

  • Highly versatile – can be mixed into various foods and drinks.
  • Contains grass-fed protein, appealing to those seeking higher quality animal protein.
  • Rich in fruits and vegetable powders for a broad nutrient profile.
  • Developed by a doctor, lending credibility to its formulation.

• Cons:

  • Requires mixing, which takes slightly more effort than a ready-to-drink shake.
  • Specific flavor might not appeal to all, though vanilla is generally well-received.

• User Impressions: Users love the flexibility of this powder, often mixing it into smoothies, milk, or oatmeal. They appreciate the comprehensive nutritional profile, especially the added fruits and vegetables. Kids generally enjoy the vanilla bean ice cream flavor, making it a pleasant addition to their diet.

• See it on Amazon here

5. Healthy Heights Grow Daily Kids Protein Drink Mix

Healthy Heights Grow Daily is another standout powder mix developed by pediatricians and clinically studied specifically to support healthy growth in children aged 3-9. This chocolate protein powder delivers 12 grams of high-quality whey protein per serving, a significant amount that actively supports muscle and overall development. What sets it apart is its clear commitment to clean ingredients, proudly stating no human growth hormone (HGH), corn syrup, or preservatives. It’s an excellent supplement for highly active kids or those notoriously picky eaters who need a boost in caloric intake and essential nutrients for weight gain and growth.

• Key Features:

  • Patented kids growth protein shake mix, developed by pediatricians and clinically studied.
  • Provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for healthy growth.
  • Contains 12 grams of high-quality whey protein per serving.
  • Free from human growth hormone (HGH), corn syrup, and preservatives.
  • Ideal for highly active kids or picky eaters, supplementing their diet with premium nutrition.
  • Versatile: use in shakes, chocolate milk, or even protein pancakes.

• Pros:

  • Clinically studied for efficacy in supporting growth.
  • High-quality whey protein (12g per serving) with no undesirable additives.
  • Pediatrician-developed formula instills confidence.
  • Versatile powder form allows for creative use in meals.

• Cons:

  • Only one flavor (chocolate) listed for this specific product.
  • May be a premium-priced option due to clinical backing and quality ingredients.

• User Impressions: Parents frequently report positive outcomes regarding their child’s growth and overall well-being. The chocolate flavor is a big hit with kids, making it easy to incorporate daily. The clinical backing and clean ingredient list are highly valued by those seeking effective and safe nutritional support.

• See it on Amazon here

Conclusion

Choosing the best kids protein shake for weight gain really comes down to your child’s specific needs, dietary preferences, and taste. Whether you’re leaning towards a clinically proven formula like PediaSure, the organic goodness of Orgain, the growth-focused benefits of TruHeight or Healthy Heights, or the versatility of a powder mix, there’s an excellent option out there for your little one.

Always remember to consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new dietary supplements to your child’s routine, especially when aiming for weight gain. They can provide personalized advice based on your child’s individual health profile. With these top picks, you’re well on your way to helping your child grow, thrive, and get all the essential nutrients they need!

FAQ Section

Q1: Are protein shakes safe for kids?

A1: Yes, protein shakes specifically formulated for children are generally safe. These are designed with age-appropriate nutrient levels and ingredients. However, it’s always best to consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new supplement to your child’s diet to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs.

Q2: How much protein do kids need daily?

A2: Protein needs vary based on a child’s age, weight, and activity level. Generally, toddlers (1-3 years) need about 13g, young children (4-8 years) about 19g, and older children (9-13 years) around 34g daily. Highly active children or those needing to gain weight may require slightly more. Protein shakes can help supplement, but shouldn’t be their sole protein source.

Q3: When should I give my child a protein shake for weight gain?

A3: For weight gain, protein shakes can be offered as a nutrient-dense snack between meals, alongside a meal to boost caloric intake, or after physical activity. Consistency is key. Avoid giving it too close to regular meal times if it might reduce their appetite for solid foods.

Q4: Can protein shakes replace meals for kids?

A4: Most kids’ protein shakes are designed as supplements, not meal replacements. Whole foods offer a broader range of nutrients, fiber, and textures essential for development. While they can be a part of a balanced diet, especially for picky eaters or for quick nutrition on the go, they shouldn’t regularly replace full, balanced meals.

Q5: What should I look for in a kids protein shake?

A5: Look for shakes with:
* Age-appropriate formulation: Ensure it’s specifically for children.
* High-quality protein: Whey, casein, or plant-based proteins.
* Essential vitamins and minerals: For overall growth and immune support.
* Lower sugar content: Avoid excessive added sugars.
* No artificial ingredients: Prioritize natural colors, flavors, and preservatives.
* Good taste: Crucial for kid acceptance!

Q6: Are there any side effects of kids protein shakes?

A6: When given in appropriate amounts, side effects are rare. However, consuming too much protein can sometimes lead to digestive issues like constipation or an upset stomach. If your child has allergies (e.g., dairy, soy), always check the ingredient list carefully. If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult your pediatrician.

Q7: How can I make protein shakes more appealing for picky eaters?

A7:
* Blend with their favorite fruits: Bananas, berries, or mango can mask flavors.
* Add a spoonful of nut butter: Boosts flavor, calories, and healthy fats.
* Use it in creative ways: Mix powders into oatmeal, yogurt, or even homemade popsicles.
* Involve them in the process: Let them help choose flavors or blend ingredients.
* Serve it in a fun cup: Sometimes a novelty cup can make all the difference!

Q8: Do these shakes really help with weight gain?

A8: Yes, for children who need to gain weight, these shakes can be very effective. They provide concentrated calories, protein, and nutrients in an easy-to-consume format, helping to increase overall caloric intake without feeling overly full. Consistent use, combined with a balanced diet, is key for seeing results.