For months, my toddler refused to host different foods on the same plate. Goldfish and graham crackers in one bowl were cause for a tantrum. Cucumbers on the same surface as strawberries led to a full flail. One desperate day I arranged some healthy snacks in a rainbow, and lo and behold, his usual disgust gave way not quite to joy, but at least curiosity—a huge win. After stepping it up to food faces, animals, or silly scenes, I officially found my picky-eating toddler hack. 

Here are 12 go-to ideas for creative food creations that are also healthy snack ideas for kids. And I promise, you need no special food, tools, or artistic ability to turn these healthy snacks into tasty masterpieces! Check out our Guide to Easy Recipes for Kids for more simple and fun meal ideas, like 25 Healthy Breakfast Ideas for Kids, and 100 School Lunch Ideas Kids Will Actually Eat.