Getting your kid to make nutritious choices? We know, we know—easier said than done, especially when you consider things like pickiness, crazy schedules, and all the other trappings of being a parent.

But that’s also where the right kid’s multivitamin can come in handy. While it won’t replace a balanced diet, it can be a great way to help fill some common nutrient gaps that kids age 4-12 face. And if it comes in the form of a tasty gummy multi that they can actually look forward to every day? Well, that’s a win-win for everyone.

That said, not all kid’s gummy multivitamins are created equal, and there are certain considerations to keep in mind while you’re shopping around—like the nutrient lineup (it matters!), sugar content, and additive ingredients.

Look for: Key nutrients in ideal forms.

You wouldn’t expect your kid to have the same nutrient needs as you or their grandparents, right? Ideally, a 4-12 kids multivitamin should be formulated with that specific life stage in mind—that is, considering recommended nutrient intakes as well as some of the typical gaps (according to national data).*

Based on that research, our team zeroed in on these key nutrients worth including in a kid’s gummy multivitamin:

Omega-3 DHA. This nutrient plays an important role in helping to support brain health. The caveat? Some kid’s multivitamins source theirs from fish oil, while some skip omega-3 DHA in their multivitamins altogether. Look for a vegan-friendly kid’s multivitamin with omega-3 DHA.*

Vitamin A. Vitamin A supports normal immune function. Look for the form beta-carotene, an antioxidant you might recognize from carrots, sweet potatoes, and other colorful veggies.*

Vitamin D3. This calcium-helper nutrient supports bone health.* It might be known as the sunshine vitamin, but the truth is that both sunlight and diet aren’t always reliable sources of vitamin D.

Vitamin E. Find a multivitamin that sources this antioxidant from mixed tocopherols—the subforms of vitamin E that are commonly found in the diet.*

Folate. Fact: Up to one-third of people have a genetic variation that makes it difficult to efficiently utilize folic acid, the synthetic form of folate. We always keep this in mind by opting for a form called 5-MTHF, which is a bioavailable form of folate. That’s key, because folate helps support DNA methylation and normal energy-yielding metabolism. (A pretty important job, no?)*

Vitamin B12. We all need vitamin B12—but since it’s mainly found in animal products, it’s not always easy to get enough of it. Pro tip: Opt for a vegan-friendly kid’s multivitamin, and check to see if it contains B12.*

Choline. This essential nutrient plays an important role in helping support brain health.*

Vitamin C. You might already know that this key nutrient (which is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables) supports normal immune function.*

Zinc. Say hello to another nutrient that lends normal immune function support.*

Iodine. Look for a kid’s multi that includes iodine, which supports normal energy-yielding metabolism.*

Look for: A 3-in-1 formula.

A multivitamin, omega-3 DHA supplement, and fiber-prebiotic blend—all rolled together into one gummy? Don’t mind if we do. That means parents can help support their kids’ key nutrient needs and digestive health in one serving. (Convenience is key.)*

Look for: Gummies without sugar in every serving.

We get it: Sometimes, just getting your kid to take a multivitamin is half the battle, and a gummy makes things easier. But we also think that parents shouldn’t have to compromise when it comes to their kids’ nutrition habits. Opt for a formula that doesn’t skimp on flavor, but skips sugar—not to mention sugar alcohols, too.

Don't forget to check out Essential for Teens (Hers) and Essential for Teens (His), our minty multivitamins formulated for ages 13-17.