4 Best Nutritious Kids Shakes for Balanced Growth & Delicious Taste

4 Best Nutritious Kids Shakes for Balanced Growth & Delicious Taste

Discover the best delicious and nutritious kid-friendly shakes that support balanced growth and development.

Dorian Rhode
By Dorian Rhode

Updated May 13, 2024.

girl with a pink backpack waving at the camera

Are you seeking a convenient and nutritious way for your child to consume essential vitamins and proteins for their growth and development? Look no further, as kids shakes can be an excellent option for picky eaters or busy families on the go. But what makes for a good kids shake, and how can you choose one your child will both enjoy and benefit from?

Dive into our comprehensive guide on the top kids shakes that offer the perfect blend of nutrition and taste—without overwhelming your kids with artificial additives. Additionally, these shakes include essential nutrients like folic acid to support children's nutrition and well-being, making them an ideal choice for ensuring your child receives a balanced diet.

Key Takeaways

  • Kids shakes provide a rich source of essential nutrients, proteins, vitamins, and minerals needed for children’s growth and health, and are particularly beneficial for picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions.
  • When choosing a kids shake, it’s important to select natural options free from artificial additives and common allergens, with an emphasis on high-quality proteins, organic and non-GMO ingredients, and flavors that children enjoy.
  • Top recommended kids shakes offer balanced nutrition derived from high-quality ingredients, are clinically proven to support growth, and come in kid-friendly flavors, ensuring that they meet taste preferences and dietary needs. Try Else Nutrition's Ready to Drink Plant-Powered Kids Shakes, for real whole plant nutrition that both parents and kids love.


Choosing the Right Kids Shake

When selecting the best kids' shake, prioritize products that cater to the child’s specific growth and development needs, like those rich in calcium for bone development or iron for cognitive health. Shakes with added essential nutrients that support overall health and immune responses, like vitamin C, zinc, and selenium, are also important considerations.

Select shakes that:

  • Steer clear of artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners to maintain a natural and wholesome product

  • Have high-quality proteins, such as grass-fed whey or organic plant-based options, which are beneficial for aiding muscle growth and recovery

  • They are free from common allergens, like soy or nuts, which is vital for kids with allergies.

Lastly, choosing shakes that come in flavors appealing to kids can make them more willing to consume these nutritious drinks.



USDA Organic and Non-GMO

USDA Organic certification signifies that shakes are made from certified organic, high-quality ingredients without resorting to prohibited practices such as genetic engineering. This certification ensures that the shakes contain no synthetic pesticides, heavy metals, or toxins, upholding clean nutrition for children.

Opting for Non-GMO shakes means avoiding genetically modified organisms, addressing health concerns and preferences of certain parents. By choosing organic and Non-GMO shakes, you can ensure that your child is receiving the highest quality nutrition.

Gluten-Free and Allergen-Friendly

Gluten-free shakes are vital for children with celiac disease, offering them safe options that cater to their health and nutritional needs. Gluten-free and allergen-friendly shakes provide a safe option for children with food sensitivities and allergies, preventing potential adverse reactions and promoting inclusivity.

Shakes formulated without dairy, nuts, soy, eggs, yeast, wheat, shellfish, and gluten cater to children with specific dietary needs including those who are picky eaters. Premade shakes ideal for meal replacements should be non-GMO, hypoallergenic, and free from common allergens like soy, dairy, and gluten, ensuring optimal nutrition with minimal additives.

a little girl holding a bottle of hair dye


Delicious Flavors Kids Love

Additional kid-friendly flavors such as vanilla and cacao are offered by Else Kids in their Ready to Drink shakes, catering to the growing demand for organic kids products. With a little creativity, shake flavors for kids can even be personalized using healthy ingredients like vegetables and seeds, resulting in unique combinations such as strawberry cauliflower or mango sweet potato.

>> Does your child need a weight-gaining shake? Find out more.

A little girl drinking a healthy shake with a yellow background.


Top 4 Nutritious Kids Shakes

Selecting the right shake for your child can be a task with so many options available. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 4 nutritious kids shakes that offer essential nutrients, high-quality protein, and delicious flavors.

These shakes are packed with essential nutrients, including a mineral blend of 23 vitamins and minerals like calcium carbonate and potassium iodide. High-quality protein from organic pea protein helps support kids’ growth and muscle development. Strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate are among the most popular flavors, catering to children’s taste preferences.

The beloved taste of these shakes helps parents ensure their kids enjoy drinking them regularly. Plus, the shakes are easy to prepare, making them a convenient option for quick nutrition, especially for active families.

Shake #1: Kindersprout

a bottle of organic plant protein on a white background


Kindersprout’s Organic Plant-Based Protein Shake is a standout option. It includes 8 grams of protein from organic sources, alongside 3 grams of fiber and an assortment of 12 organic fruits and vegetables, resulting in a robust nutritional profile of 200 calories per serving. The shake is designed for convenience, perfect for busy families, as it requires no refrigeration and can be consumed on the go, making it an ideal addition to breakfast or lunchboxes.

The company behind the shake, Kinderfarms, founded by Jessica Biel and Jeremy Adams, prioritizes clean ingredients and has a strong social commitment by partnering with organizations such as 1% for the Planet. They also ensure customer satisfaction with a 100% money-back guarantee on their products.

Compared to leading competitors, Kindersprout shake boasts 33% less sugar while offering a higher quantity of essential nutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium phosphate, potassium chloride, and potassium citrate.

Shake #2: Else Nutrition Ready to Drink Plant-Powered Kids Shakes

a couple of bottles of juice sitting next to each other


Else Nutrition’s Ready-to-Drink Kids Nutrition Shakes are:

  • Designed to indulge children with nutritious and delicious shakes

  • Specifically tailored for children aged 2 years and older

  • Can be included in a child’s lunchbox as a delicious and nutritious drink option.

The product is:

  • Gluten-free, catering to children with dietary restrictions

  • Kids will love the nutrition shake and keep asking for more, as it tastes like a treat

  • Made with over 90% real, nutritious whole food ingredients

Else Nutrition’s nutritional shake is a fantastic choice for ensuring your child’s nutritional needs are met.



Shake #3: Orgain Kids shakes

a bottle of organic kids's protein drink


Orgain’s organic protein shakes for kids are also an excellent choice. They contain 8g of grass-fed milk protein and 22 vitamins and minerals in every serving, making them perfect for growing kids.

Customers have reported the following health improvements after daily consumption of Orgain shakes:

  • Increased energy levels

  • Improved digestion

  • Weight loss

  • Reduced cravings

  • Enhanced muscle recovery

Although these claims are anecdotal and not medically verified, the high-quality ingredients and positive customer feedback make these shakes a great option for your child’s nutrition.

Shake #4: Pediasure Shakes

a bottle of pediasure grow's & gain strawberry milk


Pediasure’s Grow & Gain shakes are a clinically proven nutrition option to help kids grow and are a delicious supplement for kids falling behind in growth. These shakes provide 7g of protein and 27 vitamins and minerals, including 7 key nutrients for immune support.

With their comprehensive nutritional profile and clinically proven benefits, PediaSure shakes are a reliable choice to support your child’s growth and immune health.



>> Discover healthier alternatives to PediaSure

The Importance of Kids' Shakes

Children’s shakes are an effective supplement for picky eaters or those with dietary constraints, ensuring they receive all necessary nutrients. Products like Kindersprout’s Organic Plant-Based Protein Shake in Vanilla flavor provide essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, plant-based protein, and fiber, catering to children with picky eating habits and dietary restrictions.

Protein for Growth

Proteins, along with their essential amino acids, are key for children’s growth. They serve as the building blocks for body tissue, serum formation, and hormone synthesis. Insufficient intake of these macronutrients, including proteins, may lead to growth stunting and a significant decline from the normal growth range in children.

Organic plant-based proteins, such as pea proteins, play a pivotal role in children’s muscle development and can be beneficially incorporated into kids' shakes. Brands like Orgain offer organic nutritional vegan protein shakes with 16 grams of vegan protein derived from plants, such as brown rice and chia seeds, providing taste and nutrition in vanilla bean flavor.

High-protein supplementary feeding, which can include easily attainable whole foods like vegetables and protein from hemp seeds, offers a convenient solution for busy families to support their children’s growth.

Vitamins and Minerals for Health

Vitamins and minerals play a key role in boosting the immune system, supporting normal growth, and ensuring the functioning of cells and organs in children. Children’s shakes that are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals can support a child’s overall health, immune function, and development.

Children’s nutrition drinks often include a variety of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium to fulfill growth needs and improve overall health. Providing these essential nutrients in a delicious and convenient shake format can make it easier for children to meet their nutritional needs.



Convenient and Healthy Snack Option

Appealing flavors such as chocolate and berry make protein shakes more enjoyable for children and can encourage regular consumption. The convenience and delicious taste of these shakes make them an excellent tool for supporting your child’s nutritional needs.

Tips for Serving Kids Shakes

Serving kids shakes in a way that appeals to them can significantly enhance their enjoyment and willingness to consume these nutritious drinks. Here, we provide some handy tips on how to serve these shakes, making them not just a source of nutrition but also an exciting part of your child’s day.

From creative presentation to versatile serving options and the choice between mixing with milk or water, these tips can help you make the most of kids' shakes.

Meal Replacement or Snack

When prepared with a balanced mix of proteins, healthy fats, and other nourishing ingredients, kids' shakes can act as a nutritious meal replacement. These shakes can be a critical dietary addition to support proper development and recover from stunting, as they provide essential amino acids, protein, and concentrated nutrients.

For children with higher caloric requirements, meal replacement shakes can be formulated with whole foods and natural sweeteners to ensure quality calorie intake. Alternatively, a nutritious breakfast shake might include ingredients like:

  • Banana

  • Blueberries

  • Spinach

  • Almond butter

  • Milk

This offers a substantial meal for children with little morning appetite.

Mixing with Milk or Water

Mixing kids' shakes with water provides a lighter option suitable for children with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. However, using water as a mixing liquid may not provide the creamy taste or added nutritional benefits, such as calcium and protein, that milk could contribute.

Ultimately, choosing between milk and water depends on your child’s dietary needs and preferences. Regardless of the choice, the essential factor is that the shake provides a tasty and nutritious option for your child.

Fun and Creative Presentation

Adding ice to the shakes can create a thicker consistency, which may be more enjoyable for kids. Blending shakes with frozen fruits can enhance creaminess, while the inclusion of fruits and vegetables improves the shake’s flavor and nutritional value.

These creative presentation tips can make shake time an exciting and anticipated event for your children.

A boy in a hat drinking a smoothie from a straw.


Nutritious Kids Shakes for Healthy Growth and Development

In conclusion, kids' shakes play a vital role in fulfilling children’s nutritional needs, particularly for picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions. They offer a convenient, delicious, and versatile source of essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals. When selecting a shake, consider factors such as organic and non-GMO certifications, allergen-friendly formulations, and appealing flavors.

By choosing the right shake, creatively serving it, and incorporating it into your child’s daily diet, you can ensure your child receives the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development. Let’s make nutrition fun and exciting for our children!



Frequently Asked Questions

Why are shakes important for children?

Shakes are important for children because they provide a convenient and delicious source of essential nutrients, especially for picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions. They ensure kids get the necessary vitamins and minerals.

What types of protein are beneficial in kids' shakes?

Organic plant-based proteins, such as pea proteins, are beneficial for children's muscle development and can be included in kids shakes to support their growth and development.

What should I look for when choosing a kids' shake?

Look for kids' shakes that address your child's specific growth needs, are high in essential nutrients, avoid artificial ingredients, and come in kid-friendly flavors to ensure they meet your child's nutritional requirements.

What are some tips for serving kids shakes?

To make kids' shakes appealing, try creative presentation and versatile serving options, and use either milk or water based on your child's dietary needs and taste preferences. By doing so, you can cater to their preferences and dietary restrictions.

Can shakes serve as a meal replacement for kids?

Yes, kids shakes can serve as a nutritious meal replacement when made with a balance of proteins, healthy fats, and other nourishing ingredients. It is important to ensure that the shake provides a well-rounded source of nutrition for the child.

Children require a higher concentration of nutrients relative to their body weight, which is especially important for those who are physically active. Children’s shakes are a reliable way to deliver essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, critical for their growth and health. In the hustle and bustle of today’s world, kids' shakes are a healthy and convenient snack for children.

They offer busy parents an easy way to ensure their kids get nourishing foods. Shakes for kids can be prepared quickly, often in about 5 minutes, and come in resealable bottles that cater to on-the-go consumption, allowing part of the shake to be enjoyed with the remainder saved for later. Choosing a flavor that your child enjoys can significantly boost the appeal of a nutritious shake. Strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla are among the top milkshake flavors favored by kids. Vanilla-flavored shakes especially enjoy popularity, with products like Orgain’s Vanilla Bean Kids Protein Nutrition Shake Mix being well-received.

Presenting kids shakes in a fun and creative manner can enhance their visual appeal and enjoyment for children. Using colorful cups and fun straws can enhance the visual appeal of kids shakes. Solid, non-transparent cups are beneficial for presentation when the natural color of a shake is not appealing to children.



The content and advice provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment, advice for specific medical conditions. Always consult a pediatrician to understand the individual needs of your child. The article expresses the views of the article writer only.