Clean Up Your Kids' Eating Habits With 14 Healthy Alternatives

There are some foods that kids go crazy for — pancakes, chicken nuggets, and, of course, ice cream. Even adults like to treat themselves to a little food nostalgia. Unfortunately, these mouthwatering meals are not the healthiest of options. But that doesn't mean you have to give them up forever! Here are 14 healthier versions to classic kids' foods that are so tasty your kids won't notice the difference! Source: Sweet Pea's Kitchen, Kim's Healthy Eats, Super Healthy Kids, POPSUGAR user Shawna Batty, Purely Twins

Pancakes

Pancakes

There's a reason why kids can't get enough of this sweet breakfast treat, but there's a way to curb the sugar. Opt for whole wheat mixed pancakes with a creamy maple-flavored yogurt sauce instead. Photo: Jenny Sugar

Pizza

Pizza

A whole wheat pizza dough recipe is a nutritious base for pizza pies, and chances are kids will hardly notice the difference. Top it off with tasty greens and roasted vegetables for a colorful, flavorful bite. Photo: Michele Foley

Hot Dogs

Hot Dogs

Keep the hot dog flavor that kids love while knowing that they're getting a healthy alternative. This inventive recipe swaps buns and ketchup for tortilla squares and a fresh dip. Source: Family Fresh Cooking

Chips and Dip

Chips and Dip

This is a classic snack for playdates and parties, but store-bought versions have some not-so-good ingredients. Instead, make your own chips and onion dip, which utilizes Greek yogurt, a health-food staple! Photo: Lizzie Fuhr

Sloppy Joe

Sloppy Joe

Simply swapping ground beef for lentils makes this classic kids' sandwich much healthier. Source: Chocolate Covered Katie

Chicken Nuggets

Chicken Nuggets

It's easy to throw some frozen nuggets in the oven and call it a meal, but with a little extra effort, you can create your own baked chicken tenders. Source: Mel's Kitchen Cafe

Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese

There's no better comfort food than mac and cheese, but the boxed brands aren't the healthiest for kids or adults. Instead, try making your own ooey-gooey recipe that includes some nutritious dish. Source: Super Healthy Kids

Fruit Snacks
Shutterstock

Fruit Snacks

Fruits are already naturally sweet, but freezing them takes them to a whole other enjoyable level. It makes for a really easy snack that you can even dip in chocolate for an extra treat.

PB&J
Shutterstock

PB&J

Whether it's for a morning or afternoon snack, PB&J sandwiches are the ultimate go-to snack. Make it a healthier option by substituting almond butter for peanut butter and swapping sugary jelly for honey and sliced bananas.

French Fries

French Fries

If you've already transitioned your tot to sweet potato fries, then you'll have no problem getting them to try a carrot version. Source: Kim's Healthy Eats

Burgers

Burgers

Your kids won't be able to tell the difference between this turkey burger and the traditional dish. Source: POPSUGAR user Shawna Batty

Nachos

Nachos

Trading tortilla chips for sliced bell peppers cuts the calories of this Mexican dish while giving your kids an extra serving of vegetables. Source: Sweet Peas Kitchen

Cupcakes

Cupcakes

Every once in a while, kids (and adults) need a cupcake. Rather than making them from a box, bake some fudge-y beet brownies in a cupcake pan. Source: Purely Twins

Ice Cream

Ice Cream

We all scream for ice cream — especially when we read the nutritional info. All you need to make this frozen alternative is a banana and a blender. If your kid wants chocolate, just add cocoa powder. Source: Healthy Recipes Blog