Are you constantly on the lookout for nutritious, delicious, and convenient options to fuel your active kids? As parents, we know the struggle is real when it comes to healthy eating for our little picky eaters. That’s where smoothies swoop in as a superhero! They’re fantastic for packing in fruits, veggies, and essential nutrients in a way that kids actually enjoy. But with so many choices, how do you find the best smoothies for kids?
We’ve done the legwork for you! This comprehensive guide covers not just ready-to-drink options, but also resources for making your own, and even fun accessories to make smoothie time an experience. Whether you’re after a quick breakfast solution, a wholesome after-school snack, or simply looking to make healthy eating more exciting, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into our top picks for the best smoothies for kids (and everything that comes with them!).
Our Top Picks for Kids’ Smoothies & Smoothie Fun!
1. Best 100 Smoothies for Kids: Incredibly Nutritious and…
If you love the idea of customizing your child’s nutrition and getting creative in the kitchen, this smoothie recipe book is an absolute game-changer. It’s packed with a hundred incredible ideas for making the best smoothies for kids, ensuring they’re not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Think hidden veggies, protein boosts, and vibrant fruit combinations that will have your little ones asking for more. It empowers parents to create healthy, homemade options tailored to their child’s tastes and dietary needs, moving beyond store-bought limitations.
- Key Features:
- 100 diverse and nutritious smoothie recipes
- Focus on wholesome, child-friendly ingredients
- Offers customization tips for various dietary needs
- Inspires creativity in the kitchen
- Pros:
- Endless variety means no more smoothie ruts
- Ensures fresh, high-quality ingredients
- Great for kids with allergies or specific dietary requirements
- Can be a fun activity to do with kids
- Cons:
- Requires prep time and ingredients
- Not an “on-the-go” instant solution
- User Impressions: Parents rave about the innovative recipes and how it helps them sneak in healthy ingredients. Many found it a fantastic resource for picky eaters, opening up a world of healthy drink possibilities.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Danimals Smoothie Strawberry Explosion and Mixed Berry…
Danimals smoothies are a classic for a reason – kids absolutely adore them! This convenient pack offers two popular flavors, Strawberry Explosion and Mixed Berry, making snack time a breeze. These little bottles are perfectly sized for small hands and ideal for lunchboxes, quick breakfasts, or an on-the-go snack when you’re rushing out the door. They offer a familiar, sweet taste that’s a hit with most children, making them a reliable choice for a quick and easy treat.
- Key Features:
- Thirty-six 3.1 oz bottles
- Two popular kid-friendly flavors: Strawberry Explosion and Mixed Berry
- Convenient, on-the-go packaging
- Familiar and loved brand by kids
- Pros:
- Super convenient for busy mornings or lunchboxes
- Kids generally love the taste
- Easy to store in the fridge
- Good portion size for a quick snack
- Cons:
- May contain added sugars, so check the nutritional info
- Smaller serving size might not be filling for older kids
- User Impressions: A perennial favorite among kids, parents appreciate the convenience and how eagerly their children drink these up. They’re often praised for being a hassle-free solution for picky eaters.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Stonyfield Organic Lowfat Yogurt Smoothies, Strawberry, 3.1…
For parents seeking an organic and wholesome option, Stonyfield Organic Lowfat Yogurt Smoothies are a fantastic choice. The Strawberry flavor is a perennial favorite, made with real fruit and milk from pasture-raised cows. What really sets these apart is their commitment to quality – they’re USDA Organic, non-GMO, and free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, or high-fructose corn syrup. Plus, they boast 30% more protein than leading kids’ dairy smoothies, giving your little one a little extra boost!
- Key Features:
- 3.1 fl. oz. portable bottles
- Made with real fruit and organic lowfat yogurt
- USDA Organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, Kosher
- No artificial flavors, sweeteners, or high-fructose corn syrup
- 30% more protein than leading kids’ dairy smoothies
- Pros:
- Excellent organic and wholesome ingredients
- Higher protein content for sustained energy
- Perfect for lunchboxes, car rides, or quick snacks
- No mess, no spoon required!
- Cons:
- May be pricier than conventional options
- Some kids might prefer a sweeter taste
- User Impressions: Parents consistently praise these for their organic quality and higher protein content. Kids seem to love the taste, making them a trusted healthy snack for busy families.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Stonyfield Organic Lowfat Yogurt Smoothies, Very Berry, 3.1…
Just like its strawberry counterpart, Stonyfield Organic’s Very Berry Smoothie offers another delicious and nutritious option. This #1 organic kids’ yogurt smoothie combines real fruit and veggies in a convenient, handheld bottle. It’s the ideal mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a great addition to any meal, providing a good source of protein and wholesome ingredients. You can feel good about serving these, knowing they’re made without toxic persistent pesticides and packed with natural goodness.
- Key Features:
- 3.1 fl. oz. portable bottles
- Made with real fruit & veggie and organic lowfat yogurt
- USDA Organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, Kosher
- No artificial flavors, sweeteners, or high-fructose corn syrup
- Milk from pasture-raised cows
- Pros:
- Includes real fruit and veggie for extra nutrition
- Organic and free from artificial additives
- Super convenient for any time of day
- Supports sustainable farming practices
- Cons:
- The “very berry” flavor might not appeal to all children
- Individual bottles can add up in cost
- User Impressions: Loved by parents who prioritize organic and natural ingredients, these very berry smoothies are a hit with kids for their vibrant flavor. Many highlight them as a go-to healthy snack.
- See it on Amazon here
5. GoGo squeeZ Morning smoothieZ Variety Pack, Mixed Berry &…
GoGo squeeZ brings its signature convenience to smoothies with their Morning smoothieZ Variety Pack. These portable pouches are a blend of whole milk yogurt, fruit, and oats, making them a substantial and delicious start to the day or an anytime snack. What makes them stand out is their pantry-safe nature – no refrigeration needed until opened, making them perfect for school bags, road trips, or just stashing in the car. They’re a fantastic alternative to traditional yogurt drinks, offering a thicker, more satisfying texture.
- Key Features:
- Pack of 20, 3 oz. BPA-free squeeze pouches
- Made from whole milk yogurt, fruit, and oats
- Pantry-safe (no refrigeration required until opened)
- Ideal for on-the-go snacking and lunchboxes
- Pros:
- Incredibly convenient for travel and school
- Includes oats for a more filling snack
- No mess, easy for kids to eat independently
- Great for busy mornings when time is short
- Cons:
- Some children might prefer a thinner consistency
- Limited flavor options within the variety pack
- User Impressions: A huge hit with both kids and parents, these pouches are celebrated for their convenience and taste. Parents appreciate the inclusion of oats for a heartier snack, making them a pantry staple.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Outshine Fruit Smoothie Pouches Variety Pack -…
Outshine is known for its delicious frozen treats, and they’ve brought that same commitment to flavor and quality to their Fruit & Yogurt Smoothie Pouches. This variety pack offers a delightful blend of creamy non-fat yogurt and real fruit, with a significant bonus: 0g of added sugars! These non-GMO pouches are free from artificial colors or flavors, making them a snack you can truly feel good about. Plus, they’re conveniently shelf-stable, meaning you can grab and go without needing refrigeration, perfect for active families.
- Key Features:
- Blended with creamy non-fat yogurt and real fruit
- 0g of added sugars
- Non-GMO ingredients, no artificial colors or flavors
- Shelf-stable, no refrigeration needed (until opened)
- Convenient grab-and-go pouches
- Pros:
- Excellent healthy profile with no added sugars
- Made with real fruit and quality ingredients
- Super convenient for travel, school, or outings
- Delicious flavors that appeal to a wide age range
- Cons:
- Texture might be thicker than some prefer
- Individual pouch size may be small for very hungry kids
- User Impressions: Parents rave about the lack of added sugar and clean ingredient list, while kids simply love the taste. These pouches are frequently mentioned as a healthy and easy snack solution.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Serenity Kids 6+ Months Dairy-Free Smoothie Baby Food -…
For the youngest members of your family, Serenity Kids offers an incredible dairy-free smoothie option specifically designed for babies 6+ months and toddlers. These organic pouches are packed with nourishing ingredients like sweet potato, pumpkin, and blueberries, fortified with grass-fed protein that naturally contains collagen. They’re lactose-free, making them perfect for sensitive tummies, and provide a fantastic way to boost your little one’s growth and energy. Plus, Serenity Kids promotes recycling their pouches, making it a win for the planet too!
- Key Features:
- Suitable for babies 6+ months, toddlers, and young kids
- Dairy-free and lactose-free
- Organic sweet potato, pumpkin, and blueberries
- Contains grass-fed protein with natural collagen
- Recyclable pouches via TerraCycle program
- Pros:
- Excellent for sensitive babies and those with dairy allergies
- High-quality organic ingredients and added protein
- Convenient for mealtime or snack time for little ones
- Eco-friendly recycling initiative
- Cons:
- Specific flavors might be geared more towards infants/toddlers
- Premium price point for specialized baby food
- User Impressions: Parents of infants and toddlers love the wholesome, dairy-free, and protein-packed nature of these smoothies. They appreciate the peace of mind knowing their little ones are getting quality nutrition.
- See it on Amazon here
8. CUPKIN Stackable Stainless Steel Kids Cup Smoothie Tumbler,…
While not a smoothie itself, the CUPKIN Stackable Stainless Steel Kids Cup is the perfect companion for enjoying homemade or store-bought smoothies! Designed with durability and safety in mind, this insulated sippy cup for toddlers is rigorously tested and made from food-grade stainless steel with a powder-coated finish that resists chipping and peeling. It’s an excellent investment for serving up the best smoothies for kids at home, ensuring they stay cool and contained, preventing messy spills.
- Key Features:
- Stackable stainless steel design
- Tested for safety by a 3rd-party US laboratory
- Powder-coated finish resists chipping and peeling
- Food-grade silicone and 18/8 stainless steel materials
- Easy to clean (lids/straws dishwasher safe, hand wash cups)
- Pros:
- Extremely durable and built to last
- Keeps smoothies cold longer than plastic cups
- Safe materials (no plastic taste)
- Easy for little hands to hold, reduces spills
- Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than plastic cups
- Not suitable for very young infants (recommended 2+ years)
- User Impressions: Parents are consistently impressed with the quality and sturdiness of these tumblers. They love that they don’t chip, are easy to clean, and are perfect for daily smoothie consumption, making them a family staple.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Play Doh Swirlin’ Smoothies Toy Blender Playset, Play…
Who says smoothies can’t be fun and imaginative? The Play-Doh Swirlin’ Smoothies Toy Blender Playset lets kids unleash their creativity by making their very own pretend Play-Doh smoothies! This adorable kitchen toy set comes with a toy blender, cups, and five vibrant Play-Doh colors, allowing little chefs to shape imaginary fruits, whip up pretend cream, and “pour” their colorful concoctions. It’s a fantastic way to encourage role-playing, fine motor skills, and creative storytelling around the theme of delicious, healthy treats.
- Key Features:
- Toy blender playset for pretend smoothie making
- Includes half-molds for creating play food ingredients
- Comes with 2 cups for serving and sharing
- 5 Play-Doh colors (7 oz. total)
- Encourages imaginative kitchen play
- Pros:
- Boosts creativity and imaginative play
- Develops fine motor skills
- Fun and engaging activity for young children
- Familiar and beloved Play-Doh brand
- Cons:
- It’s a toy, not edible!
- Play-Doh can be messy
- User Impressions: Kids absolutely love making their colorful, silly smoothies with this set. Parents appreciate how it keeps children engaged and sparks their imagination, often inspiring them to try real smoothies too!
- See it on Amazon here
10. Sweet Nothings, Strawberry, USDA Organic Kids’ Squeezable…
Sweet Nothings offers a truly clean and convenient option for parents seeking organic, plant-based smoothies without any fuss. Their Strawberry Squeezable Smoothies are made with real organic fruits and veggies, not juices or concentrates, and boast a mere 40 calories per tube. The best part? There’s absolutely no added sugar, artificial colors, dyes, or flavors. These individual tubes are perfectly sized for little hands, making them an ideal grab-and-go snack that both kids and parents can feel good about.
- Key Features:
- Made with real, organic fruits and veggies
- No added sugar, artificial colors, dyes, or flavors
- Plant-based and only 40 calories per tube
- Individual squeezable tubes for convenience
- USDA Organic certified
- Pros:
- Incredibly clean ingredient list (real fruit/veg, no added sugar)
- Perfectly portioned for kids’ snacks
- Plant-based for dietary preferences or restrictions
- Super convenient and easy to pack
- Cons:
- Smaller size might not satisfy older children
- Taste might be less sweet than other kids’ smoothies (due to no added sugar)
- User Impressions: Parents are thrilled with the simple, organic, and sugar-free ingredients, especially for children with dietary sensitivities. Kids enjoy the fruity taste and the fun of squeezing the tubes.
- See it on Amazon here
Why Smoothies Are a Smart Choice for Kids
Smoothies aren’t just tasty; they’re an incredibly versatile and effective way to ensure your children get a good dose of essential nutrients. Here’s why they’re so fantastic:
- Nutrient Powerhouses: You can pack a ton of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein into one delicious drink.
- Picky Eater Solution: Smoothies are brilliant for “hiding” fruits and vegetables that kids might otherwise turn their noses up at. Spinach in a berry smoothie? They’ll never know!
- Convenience: Many options are ready-to-go, perfect for busy mornings, school lunchboxes, or a quick snack during playtime.
- Hydration: They contribute to your child’s daily fluid intake, especially when made with water, milk, or yogurt.
- Customizable: When making your own, you have full control over ingredients, allowing you to cater to allergies, preferences, and specific nutritional needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are the best ingredients for a healthy homemade smoothie for kids?
A1: Focus on a balance of fruit (berries, banana, mango), a liquid base (milk, water, unsweetened juice), healthy fats (avocado, chia seeds), and protein (yogurt, nut butter, protein powder). You can also sneak in greens like spinach or kale – the fruit often masks the taste!
Q2: How much sugar is acceptable in kids’ smoothies?
A2: It’s best to minimize added sugars. Look for smoothies with naturally occurring sugars from fruit. For store-bought options, check the nutrition label and aim for products with low or no added sugar. For homemade, rely on the sweetness of ripe fruit.
Q3: Can smoothies replace a meal for my child?
A3: A well-balanced smoothie can replace a meal, especially breakfast or a substantial snack, if it contains a good mix of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and carbohydrates. Ensure it’s not just fruit juice, which lacks fiber and can be high in sugar.
Q4: Are store-bought smoothie pouches a good option, or should I always make my own?
A4: Store-bought pouches are fantastic for convenience, especially when you’re on the go. Look for brands with minimal added sugars, real fruit and veggie ingredients, and no artificial additives. Homemade smoothies offer maximum control over ingredients, but both can be part of a healthy diet.
Q5: What’s the best way to introduce new flavors in smoothies to picky eaters?
A5: Start with familiar and loved flavors, then gradually introduce new ingredients in small amounts. For example, add a tiny bit of spinach to a strawberry-banana smoothie, slowly increasing the amount. Make it fun by letting them help pick ingredients or even name their “special” smoothie.
Q6: How can I make smoothies more appealing to my kids?
A6: Presentation matters! Use fun straws, colorful cups (like the CUPKIN tumbler!), or blend in vibrant fruits. You can also make “smoothie bowls” and let them add their own toppings like granola, seeds, or extra fruit. Engaging them in the making process (even with a Play-Doh blender!) can also increase their enthusiasm.
Q7: How long do homemade smoothies last in the fridge?
A7: For optimal freshness and nutrient retention, homemade smoothies are best consumed immediately. However, they can typically be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Some separation might occur, so give it a good shake before serving.
Finding the best smoothies for kids doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether you’re opting for the convenience of organic pouches, the creativity of a recipe book, or even a fun play set to get them excited about healthy eating, there’s a perfect solution out there. We hope this guide helps you find exactly what you need to make healthy eating both easy and enjoyable for your little ones!