Toddlers at the age of 2 years old are at a crucial stage of growth in their lives. At this stage in development, their bodies are already starting to determine what systems should be prioritized.
That’s why you’ll want to ensure they get all the key nutrients early.
Drawing upon several weeks of research, a collaboration with a dietitian, and talking with my clients who have children, I have crafted a list of the eight best organic vitamins to give your toddler a head start to grow big and strong.
The Best Multivitamins For 2 Year Olds
- Best Overall Multivitamin for 2-Year-Olds: Ritual
- Cheapest Multivitamin Brand for 2-Year-Olds: Lil’ Critters
- Best Easy-to-Swallow Multivitamins for Toddlers: Smarty Pants
- Best Liquid Multivitamin for 2-Year-Olds: Zarbee’s Naturals
- Best Iron Multivitamin for 2-Year-Olds: Renzo’s Iron
- Best Immune-Boosting Multivitamin for 2-Year-Olds: Trace Minerals
- Best Plant-Based Gummy Multivitamin for 2-Year-Olds: Llama Naturals Plant-Based
- Best Tasty Gummy Multivitamin for Toddlers: Olly Kids Multi
8 Best Vitamins For 2-Year-Olds (July 2024)
1 - Ritual Essential Multivitamin for Kids (Best Overall)
- Price per serving : Not directly available
- Key vitamins and minerals : Not directly available
- Form : Not directly available
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Made with natural-based ingredients
- Free shipping and easy cancellation on orders
- 3-in-1 formula combining omega 3 DHA, fiber, and multivitamins
Cons
- Product shipping limited only to the U.S.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Toddlers needing comprehensive vitamins
- Vegan families
Who is it not for?
- Families outside the U.S. due to shipping limits
Final Verdict
The Ritual Essential Multivitamin offers a robust vitamin profile ideal for holistic toddler health. Highly recommended for vegans.
Ritual is by far the best vitamin and mineral supplement for your growing toddler. I’ve personally reviewed its nutrient profile and am impressed by its comprehensive blend of essential vitamins and minerals.
My client with toddlers told me this was one of the most effective multivitamins for kids he tried. Moreover, it's a dietician's top recommendation for toddlers in their crucial developmental stages.
Containing 12 traceable ingredients and no sugar, Ritual provides your toddler with all the essential vitamins they’ll need to grow strong and healthy.
It’s also flavored with natural sweeteners like monk fruit, lemon oil, and raspberry extract, making it a great part of any balanced child's diet that tastes great, too.
Additionally, consumers can utilize the company’s Ritual app to monitor daily vitamin or mineral supplement intake.
This prevents your toddler from accidentally consuming more vitamins than necessary and serves as a handy reminder for days when you might forget to give them a multivitamin.
Vitamins: A, B, C, D, E, K
2 - Smarty Pants (Best Easy-to-Swallow)
- Price per serving : $0.95
- Key vitamins and minerals : Vitamins A, C, D, E, B6, B12, folate, biotin, iodine
- Form : Gummy
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Non-GMO and allergen free
- Gummy vitamins are easy to swallow and digest
- Third-party lab tested
Cons
- May stick to teeth
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Toddlers with sensitive tummies
- Those preferring non-GMO
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for a pill form vitamin
Final Verdict
Smarty Pants provides essential nutrients in an easy-to-digest form. It's great for regular use without dietary restrictions.
Each serving of Smarty Pants packs just the right combination of key nutrients and vitamins to ensure your toddler’s body gets exactly what it needs.
I've personally heard several positive feedbacks from parents whose toddlers used this multivitamin. Plus, it's created by nutritional scientists, so you can feel confident with each serving.
Smarty Pants is gluten-free, gelatin-free, and contains no synthetic ingredients, making it a top contender for the best multivitamins for kids as it won’t trigger any food allergies.
These gummy vitamins for kids are also chewable and easily digested, preventing choking hazards and making them great for toddlers with sensitive tummies. At the same time, the key nutrients contained within will help fill nutritional gaps.
The product also contains additional probiotics that further aid with digestion and omega 3s, which are crucial to overall health and found in only a few select foods [1,2].
Vitamins: A, B, C, D, E, K
The product can be rather sticky, making it a nuisance if it gets stuck in kid’s teeth.
3 - Zarbee’s Naturals (Best Liquid Multivitamin)
- Price per serving : $0.22
- Key vitamins and minerals : Vitamins A, C, D, E, B-complex
- Form : Chewable gummy
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Free of nuts, wheat, shellfish, and dairy
- No high fructose corn syrup
- Fruit pectin makes it easy to chew
Cons
- Contains sugar
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Toddlers needing Vitamin B boost
- Preference for natural ingredients
Who is it not for?
- Those preferring a pill or gummy form
Final Verdict
Zarbee's Naturals offers a liquid vitamin that's easy to consume and focuses on natural ingredients, making it great for daily use.
Zarbee’s Naturals is one of the best multivitamins for toddlers needing a Vitamin B complex.
My neighbor, who's also a mom of a lively 2-year-old, swears by Zarbee’s Naturals. It's her top pick, especially when she feels her little one needs a Vitamin B boost. Seeing her child's energy, I can see why she loves it.
I personally reviewed its list of ingredients, and found it's made without harmful additives or triggering allergens.
As a complete multivitamin, Zarbee’s Naturals contains 12 essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D3, C, and their Vitamin B complex, ensuring your toddler gets everything they need to grow up healthy [3,4,5].
Additionally, Zarbee’s Naturals is flavored with honey without artificial sweeteners, which is especially important for minimizing harmful sweeteners.
Vitamins: A, B, C, D, E
Despite being honey-flavored, the product contains a small amount of sugar.
4 - Renzo’s Iron (Best Iron Multivitamin)
- Price per serving : $0.20
- Key vitamins and minerals : Iron, Vitamin C
- Form : Dissolvable tablets
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Money-back guarantee for picky eaters
- No artificial flavors or sweeteners
- Non-GMO
Cons
- A high amount of iron can be potentially dangerous
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Toddlers with iron deficiency
- Vegan families
Who is it not for?
- Those not needing additional iron
Final Verdict
Renzo’s Iron is ideal for addressing specific mineral deficiencies with safety and efficacy. Best for targeted supplementation.
Unlike the majority of vitamins on this list, Renzo’s Iron only contains two ingredients: Iron and Vitamin C, which are perfect for toddlers who only have these mineral deficiencies.
I conducted a detailed analysis of Renzo’s Iron in my quest to find quality iron supplements for toddlers. Its purity and effectiveness resonated with my professional standards. It's a great option for parents worried about their toddlers’ iron levels.
The product is also 3rd party tested in their FDA-registered lab, which ensures the integrity and safety of the vitamin, especially when it comes to your toddler’s health.
With no added sugars, being non-GMO, and a perfect addition to any vegan diet, Renzo’s Iron contains two of the most essential nutrients a toddler needs to aid them with their healthy growth spurts.
Vitamins: C, Iron
5 - Trace Minerals (Best Immune-Boosting)
- Price per serving : $0.25
- Key vitamins and minerals : Vitamins A, C, D, and complete B-complex
- Form : Chewable tablet
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Made from natural-based ingredients
- Friendly for vegetarian or vegan diet
- Includes both micro and macro minerals
Cons
- Product may have issues regarding shipping and packaging integrity
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Immunity boost needed
- Vegetarian or vegan diets
Who is it not for?
- Toddlers who don't need additional minerals
Final Verdict
Trace Minerals provides a comprehensive mix beneficial during flu seasons. It's especially suited for plant-based diets.
A formulated supplement that helps individuals become healthier, Trace Minerals contains all the essential nutrients needed to fight off a cold and flu season.
The dietician I consulted says it’s their go-to recommendation for parents looking to strengthen their toddlers’ immunity during vulnerable flu months.
As a complete multi-mineral and multivitamin supplement, Trace Minerals is a great choice for picky eaters or those on a restrictive diet.
If your toddler is missing out on certain vitamins in their diet, these chewable vitamins can ensure your kids get adequate nutrition regardless of what they eat.
Vitamins: A, B, C, D, E, K
6 - Llama Naturals Plant-Based (Best Plant-Based)
- Price per serving : $0.58
- Key vitamins and minerals : Vitamins A, C, D, E, K1, B1, B2, Niacin, B6, Folate, B12, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid
- Form : Gummy
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No animal products
- Free of common allergens like wheat, nuts, and dairy
- Made in the USA and sourced from local ingredients
Cons
- Must be taken alongside a meal
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Eco-conscious families
- Plant-based diets
Who is it not for?
- Those preferring vitamins with animal products
Final Verdict
Llama Naturals offers a sustainable and allergen-free option. It's best for families committed to environmental responsibility.
With no added sugar and sourced from naturally grown US fruits and vegetables, it’s no wonder why Llama Naturals Plant-Based gummies won the 2019 best multivitamin award.
These organic plant-based gummies are free of animal byproducts, making them a great part of any vegan or vegetarian diet.
The company also offers a money-back guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.
For individuals that are environmentally conscious or wary about product packaging, the product also comes in a plastic-free container, with the company partnering with other organizations to remove plastics from the environment.
Vitamins: A, B, C, D, E, K
Just be sure to take these vitamins with a serving of food to avoid stomach irritation.
7 - Olly Kids Multi (Best Tasty)
- Price per serving : $0.61
- Key vitamins and minerals : Various vitamins and minerals including Vitamin C and Zinc
- Form : Chewable tablet
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Gummy vitamins are tasty and easy to chew
- Fast shipping within 2-3 business days
- A high amount of probiotics for healthy gut bacteria
Cons
- It can take time to separate gummies from each other
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Picky eaters
- Kids needing flavorful options
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for less sugary options
Final Verdict
Olly Kids Multi is tasty and effective, making it ideal for toddlers who are picky. It ensures vitamin intake with ease.
Olly Kids Multi are playful nutrient-packed gummies that contain a full blend of day-to-day vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C and Vitamin D to promote overall wellness and help children grow and thrive [6,7].
Olly Kids Multi is especially tailored towards picky eaters, as the company’s culinary and food science experts are constantly innovating their products’ taste to provide a kids vitamin that your toddler will love.
The dietician I consulted says they've seen tangible improvements in toddlers’ wellness who have incorporated these gummies into their diet.
Vitamins: A, B, C, D, E, Zinc
8 - Lil’ Critters (Cheapest Option)
- Price per serving : $0.06
- Key vitamins and minerals : Vitamins A, C, D, E, B
- Form : Gummy
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No high-fructose corn syrup
- Award-winning fruit flavors and taste
- Dairy and gluten-free
Cons
- Ineffective for iron-deficient individuals as it does not contain iron
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious families
- Toddlers enjoying flavorful gummies
Who is it not for?
- Those needing vitamins with iron
Final Verdict
Lil' Critters is an affordable, tasty option for daily vitamins. It's best for those seeking value without compromising on taste.
Proclaimed America’s #1 Gummy Vitamin Brand, Lil’ Critters are an assortment of Jurassic dinosaurs perfect for fussy toddlers who like to play with their food.
With no high-fructose corn syrup, synthetic dyes, as well as being gluten-free, Lil’ Critters are naturally flavored and a great addition to a healthy diet.
The liquid vitamin also comes in strawberry, orange, and pineapple flavors, famous for their award-winning taste - ensuring your toddler will eat their vitamins with minimal hassle.
Additionally, as they are liquid vitamins, the minerals inside each gummy are absorbed by the body right after being ingested compared to fat-soluble vitamins.
Vitamins: A, B, C, D, E
If you need a multivitamin that contains iron, it’s best to look for other choices.
How We Tested Kids Multivitamins
Here's how we chose the best multivitamins for kids.
Ingredients
It is crucial to ensure that the vitamins contain appropriate levels of essential nutrients suitable for a 2-year-old's developmental needs. This includes checking for the presence of vitamins A, C, D, E, and some B vitamins, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.
We also look for the inclusion of natural ingredients and the absence of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The source of the ingredients is also taken into account to ensure they are derived from high-quality, safe, and sustainable sources.
Any potential allergens are clearly noted, and products are preferred that are free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, soy, and gluten.
Price
During the testing phase, we compare the cost per serving across different brands and consider the overall value. While affordability is important, it is balanced against quality, as the cheapest option is not always the best.
We also take into account the number of servings per container, as a higher upfront cost might actually result in a lower long-term expense.
Additionally, we consider if there are any subscription services or discounts available that could make the vitamins more cost-effective for regular use.
Taste
We conduct taste tests with a panel of children in the target age group to gauge the overall acceptance of the flavor. We look for a balance between sweetness and flavor that masks the taste of the vitamins and minerals, without being overly sugary or artificial.
We also consider the aftertaste and texture, as these can also affect a child’s likelihood to consistently take the vitamins.
What Ingredients to Look for in a Kids' Multivitamin?
Ingredients to look for in a kids’ multivitamin are vitamins B, D, and E. They also need fiber, iron, and calcium.
B Vitamins
B vitamins are essential for maintaining overall health and wellness. There are eight types of Vitamin B, which include:
- B-1 (thiamine)
- B-2 (riboflavin)
- B-3 (niacin)
- B-5 (pantothenic acid)
- B-6 (pyridoxine)
- B-7 (biotin)
- B-9 (folic acid)
- B-12 (cobalamin)
Vitamin D
Vitamin D regulates the absorption of minerals like phosphorus and calcium to promote bone health and prevents diseases as an individual grows older.
The easiest way to get a healthy dose of this vitamin is to ensure your toddler gets enough sunlight per day.
In situations where the weather is cloudy, a Vitamin D supplement can also do the trick.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a nutrient that plays an important role in the body’s immune system, vision, and the creation of healthy red blood cells. It also contains antioxidant properties, which combat free radicals and prevent cell damage.
Natural foods that are rich in Vitamin E include seeds, peppers, spinach, and peanut butter.
Fiber
While fiber isn’t considered part of a group of essential nutrients, it's still an important nutrient for developing a healthy digestive system. Many foods rich in fiber also contain other vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin E, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
If you can’t get fiber from your multivitamins, it can also be found in a number of natural food sources such as beans, leafy greens, fruits, and oatmeal.
Iron
Iron is a vital mineral found in abundance in our blood cells, and it promotes circulation, immune function, sleep, and muscle endurance. Iron-rich foods include nuts, seafood, lean meats, and fish.
Additionally, iron plays a critical role in promoting brain development - especially in young, underdeveloped brains such as toddlers’ [8].
Common symptoms of an iron deficiency include weakness, cold hands and feet, poor appetite, and dizziness.
To prevent these problems, make sure the dietary supplements your kids take contain the right dose of iron they need.
Calcium
As an essential mineral for building healthy bones and teeth, calcium is essential for developing a strong skeletal system. This is especially important at a young age, as we naturally undergo bone density loss as we age.
To prevent your child from encountering bone problems later on in life, make sure to provide them with at least 700 mg of calcium between children ages of 1 to 3.
Probiotics
Probiotics, the friendly bacteria residing in the gut, play a pivotal role in enhancing digestive health, bolstering the immune system, and establishing a balanced intestinal environment.
When included in multivitamins, they can bridge the gap for children who have limited dietary sources of these beneficial microbes.
By fostering a harmonious gut flora, probiotics contribute to improved nutrient absorption, reduced inflammation, and enhanced immunity, laying a foundation for a child’s overall well-being.
Are Vitamins Safe for Kids?
Yes, vitamins are safe for kids as long as you stick to the recommended dosage or purchase one that is designed for your child’s age group. If you want to ensure vitamin safety, opt for organic multivitamins.
Organic multivitamins, free from synthetic pesticides and artificial stuff, are a natural pick for kids’ nutrition. They usually skip the fake colors, flavors, and preservatives, going for a more whole-health vibe.
Non-organic ones might pack more vitamins and minerals, thanks to synthetic nutrients.
Also, keep an eye out for ethically sourced multivitamins. Brands that care about ethical sourcing tend to stick to high quality standards.
However, there are ingredients you should avoid in a multivitamin for two-year-olds, such as preservatives, gluten, artificial ingredients, and dairy.
Preservatives
Preservatives are a big ingredient to look out for when it comes to organic vitamins. Besides wreaking havoc on a child’s growing system, they can also inhibit the absorption of minerals and key nutrients, leading to health consequences later on.
In most cases, vitamin and mineral supplements have a long shelf life by themselves and do not need to contain any additional preservatives.
Gluten
Gluten is another key ingredient that’s quickly becoming a protein to avoid. To avoid side effects such as bloating and stomach pain, ensure the mineral supplements you choose are gluten-free.
Artificial Ingredients
Anything that’s ‘artificial’ should be frowned upon, especially when it’s being fed to your still-growing toddler.
Vitamins that contain artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners, and artificial colors should be avoided as these chemicals can have adverse impacts on the health of young children whose body systems may not have the resources necessary to fight them off.
Dairy
With more and more individuals succumbing to food allergies every single day, dairy is an ever-popular ingredient that takes the last spot on this list.
As dairy is mainly consumed for calcium, it’s an unnecessary ingredient to be included in multivitamin supplements.
Choosing a dairy-free organic multivitamin allows your toddler to still get the calcium they need without the risk associated with any dairy allergies like hives or lactose intolerance.
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FAQs
Do Kids Have Different Nutrient Needs than Adults?
Yes, kids have different nutrient needs than adults in the sense that they need more of the essential vitamins and minerals. The most important ones include calcium and vitamins A, B, and D, which are crucial for bone and brain development.
Can Adults Take Children’s Vitamins?
Yes, adults can take children’s vitamins, but the number of vitamins and minerals in the product may not be enough to satisfy the needs of a fully-grown adult. In situations where an adult only requires a small amount of extra vitamins and minerals as part of a balanced diet, taking children’s vitamins can be a good choice.
Do Kids Need Multivitamin Supplements?
No, kids don’t need multivitamin supplements if your child eats a well-balanced diet, they don’t need vitamin supplements. However, if your child happens to be a picky eater, leading to potential deficiencies in essential minerals and nutrients, considering multivitamin supplements could be beneficial.
Our #Verdict on the Best Multivitamin For 2-Year-Olds
If you’re looking for dietary supplements that are safe and provide all the essential vitamins and minerals your toddler needs, I’d recommend Ritual.
Our tests found it doesn't have any artificial colors or flavors. It’s a top choice amongst the best multivitamins for kids, according to plenty of happy customers’ reviews and comments.
Ritual is also made with all-natural vegan-friendly ingredients, making it a suitable option alongside a vegan diet or lifestyle.
Our #1 Recommendation
Ritual Essential Multivitamin for Kids (Best Overall)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Vegan-friendly
- Made with natural-based ingredients
- Free shipping and easy cancellation on orders
- 3-in-1 formula combining omega 3 DHA, fiber, and multivitamins
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of July
- Product shipping limited only to the U.S.
About The Author
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We love Ritual Essential. It is the best multivitamins for 2 year olds on the market. It is great for our kids because they taste good and don’t have any weird ingredients that other products have.
Thanks for these suggestions. Will definitely consider Ritual for my kid to up her health and immune system.