The Best Multivitamins For Kids (2024 Guide)
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.If you are concerned about your child’s picky eating habits or are otherwise doubtful that they are not getting their nutritional needs met, it might be a good time to discuss quality multivitamins with your doctor. This list of The Best Multivitamins for Kids (2024 Edition) is a great place to start. In this post, we go over the top kid’s vitamins in a variety of categories, what to look for when considering vitamins, and how to know if your child even needs one.
Researching and shopping for the best kids vitamins can be tricky and confusing. There are so many questions: does my kid even need a vitamin? Can I trust the claims made on the bottle? Which vitamins are the best? Does my child need a children’s multivitamin with iron, or is a classic multivitamin sufficient?
Many of these questions can be overwhelming because there are so many brands and different offerings out there. There is also so much information to consider. So, in this post, I set out to find, research, and recommend the healthiest kids vitamins on the market today. Consider this is your guide for the best kids multivitamins: what to buy, what not to buy, and what to look out for!
Related: Best Vitamins for Teens
But First, A Disclaimer
As a board certified health coach and certified nutritionist, I support supplements that are rooted in science and are evidence-based. The FDA does not review dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they go to market, so I prioritize products that are third-party tested and certified by one of three independent third-party certifiers (USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com). This post has also been medically reviewed and fact checked by Linzy Ziegelbaum, MS, RD, CDN (see my about page for more info about Linzy).
Though I may receive a commission (at no extra expense to you) if you purchase through some of the affiliate links provided, I only recommend products I’ve researched, evaluated, consulted experts on, and would feel comfortable giving to my own two children.
As always, I only share products that are the highest quality and that can help you and your family the most. By purchasing any of these products from the links below, you help keep this blog running, so thanks for your support!
Large doses of vitamins can be harmful to children; your child may benefit from individual vitamin supplements instead of a multivitamin. Always speak with a healthcare professional or physician about your child’s supplementation needs before adding a vitamin or similar supplement to their diet. The information shared in this post is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard or delay in seeking professional medical advice because of something you read here and always consult with your doctor to determine the proper administration and recommended dosage of vitamins for your child.
All product prices are accurate at the time of this publication but are subject to change.
Related: The 18 Best Multivitamins for Women
Our Top Picks
Before we dive into our detailed list of the best children’s vitamins, here are our quick picks!
- Best Overall: Hiya Vitamins
- Best Infant: Mary Ruth’s Infant Liquid Vitamin
- Best With Iron: Raise Them Well
- Best Subscription: First Day
- Best Vegan: Llama Naturals
- Best Liquid: Mary Ruth’s Kids Liquid Vitamin
- Best Organic: Children’s Best
- Best For Picky Eaters: Renzo’s Picky Eater Multi
- Best Whole Food Based: Bluebonnet Nutrition
- Best Budget Friendly: Wellvites
Best Overall Children’s Multivitamins
These vitamins are tried and true, easy to find, made with quality ingredients, organic, and more.
Hiya Vitamins
This is my number one best pick when it comes to children’s vitamins and the one that I give to my children.
Hiya offers chewable children’s vitamins that are sent to your door each month. The first order comes with a glass container and recyclable refill pouches arrive every subsequent month. These vitamins have no added sugar and have kid-approved flavor.
Each bottle is a 30 day supply for 1 child. Suitable for children aged 2 and over.
Cost: $30 for 1 bottle (price per bottle decreases when purchasing for multiple children)
Related: Hiya Vitamin Review
Pros
Cons
Smarty Pants Kids Multi & Probiotics
This is one of the best gummy multivitamins because it is easy to find, organic, and contains both a multivitamin and probiotics in one. Note: This version of SmartyPants vitamins is made with flaxseed oil to be both vegetarian friendly and include Omega 3s. They also have this version made with fish oil for Omega 3s which does not include probiotics – so choose the one that fits best for your family!
Each bottle comes with 120 gummies, or a 30-day supply of vitamins.
Cost: $28.45
Pros
Cons
Zarbee’s Kids Complete Daily Multivitamin + Probiotic Gummies
Zarbee’s Kids Complete Daily Multivitamin + Probiotic is rich in essential vitamins while boasting a natural fruit flavor that little palates love. These vitamins have minimal added sugar and are sweetened with cane sugar, honey and fruit juice. Because of the honey, unfortunately, these gummies are not vegan-friendly. They do contain 500 million to 1 billion probiotic strains, however.
Each bottle contains 7o gummies. Formulated for kids 2 years and up.
Cost: $21.29
Pros
Cons
Best Infant Multivitamins
Always discuss multivitamins with your pediatrician before giving them to your infant, as breastfeeding along with a vitamin D supplement and formula are considered to be complete sources of nutrition for your baby.
Mary Ruth’s Organic Infant Multivitamin
Formulated specifically for infants aged 6 months and up, Mary Ruth’s Organic Infant Multivitamin comes in a liquid, making it easy to stir into breast milk, formula, or even baby cereal. This infant formulation comes in an orange-vanilla flavor, making it easy for babies to taste and enjoy.
Each bottle contains 2 fl oz of supplement drops, or about 30 servings. For babies 6+ months.
Cost: $14.96
Pros
Cons
Best Children’s Multivitamins With Iron
If you are looking for the best kids multivitamin with iron, here are my top two picks.
Raise Them Well
Formulated with methylated B vitamins, a form of the essential vitamins that is more bioavailable for your child, these all-star vitamins are vegetarian, gluten-free, non-GMO, and third-party tested. Raise Them Well also offers a subscription service, discounting the price for all subscription orders.
Each bottle contains 60 chewable tablets. Suitable for children aged 4 and up.
Cost: $21.99 ($20.89 for subscription orders)
Pros
Cons
Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Complete Multivitamin + Iron
With a total B complex, iron, and natural fruit flavors, there isn’t a whole lot not to love about this one. It’s one of the best kids vitamins with iron. One of the only drawbacks is that it is made with honey so it is not vegan-friendly.
Formulated for kids aged 2+. Each bottle contains 90 gummies, or 45 or 90 servings depending on the age of your child.
Price: $16.49
Pros
Cons
Children’s Best Complete Sugar-Free Multivitamin for Kids
If you are looking for a sugar-free kids vitamins, Children’s Best is a fantastic pick. With no artificial colors, a berry mix flavor, and 100% vegan and gluten-free, these kids chewable vitamins are a favorite with little ones and their parents.
Each bottle contains 120 chewables. Suitable for children ages 4+.
Cost: $19.99
Pros
Cons
Best Children’s Multivitamins Without Iron
If your doctor says that your child doesn’t need supplemental iron, here are my best children’s multivitamins without iron.
Mary Ruth’s Organics Kids Multivitamin Gummies
Mary Ruth’s Kids Multivitamin Gummies are vegan, gluten-free, and made with no gelatin. They have a selection of flavors that kids love. Made with 12 essential vitamins, they help support your kid’s immune system and overall wellness.
Each bottle contains 60 gummies and is suitable for kids aged 2 and older.
Cost: $29.97
Pros
Cons
Naturelo Chewable Multivitamin for Children
This is one of my favorite chewable vitamins for kids. Not only is it organic, but it is also vegan and vegetarian; these vitamins are made with plant-based vitamins and minerals and they do not contain any gelatin or other animal products.
Each bottle contains 60 chewable tablets. Suitable for children ages 4 and up.
Cost: $24.95
Pros
Cons
Best Organic Children’s Multivitamins
Look no further for the best organic vitamins for kids. You don’t have to worry about any pesticides or GMOs in these multis; they’re full of only good-for-you ingredients!
Children’s Best Organic Kids Multivitamin Gummies
True to the brand name, Children’s Best makes some of the best organic kids vitamins. They are made with organic and non-GMO ingredients, contain a host of essential vitamins and minerals, and are allergen-friendly (that is gluten-free, dairy-free, and gelatin-free). They are also suitable for vegan diets.
Each bottle contains 90 gummy vitamins. Suitable for children ages 2+.
Cost: $19.99
Pros
Cons
Lil Critters Organic Complete Multivitamin Gummies
Lil Critters are budget-friendly, USDA-certified organic, easy to find in major retailers, and made with no processed or artificial sugars or sweeteners. Kids love their fruit flavors so the gummies can be a good option for picky eaters as well.
90 gummies per bottle. Suitable for children aged 2-3 years+.
Cost: $17.20
Pros
Cons
Best Subscription Children’s Multivitamins
Enjoy the convenience of having high-quality children’s vitamins delivered to your home each month, thanks to this popular children’s multivitamin brand!
First Day Kids Vitamins
Another one of the best organic kids vitamins. This gummy multivitamin is made with real organic fruits and vegetables and contains 9 of the top micronutrients that children most need.
Each bottle contains a 60 gummies and is suitable for children ages 4+.
Bonus: first day has a great subscription service and they offer 15% off of all subscription orders.
Cost: $39/bottle ($30.60/bottle with subscribe and save)
Related: My complete review of First Day vitamins.
Pros
Cons
Best Kids Liquid Vitamins
Liquid vitamins can be helpful for younger kids or those who want to be able to stir their vitamins into a drink, yogurt, or other food. Here are the best vitamins in liquid form:
Mary Ruth’s Organic Multivitamin Liposomal
This vegan liquid vitamin supplement has a delicious strawberry cherry vanilla flavor that many kids love. The liquid is easy for kids to drink and is perfect for children who do not want to chew tablets or gummies. It has zero added sugar, and has greater bioavailability thanks to its liposomal technology.
Each 15.22 bottle contains up to 60 servings. This product was formulated for kids aged 4 to 13 years old.
Cost: $34.99
Pros
Cons
ChildLife Essentials Kids Liquid Multivitamin
ChildLife Multi Vitamin & Mineral liquid vitamin is a great budget-friendly option for your child. Though it is not organic it is non-GMO. It contains twelve vitamins plus minerals to support growth and has won many awards. Finally, this liquid vitamin is third-party tested for purity, identity, and strength, making it a vitamin that you can feel great about giving to young ones.
Each 8 oz. bottle contains up to 24 servings. Suitable for children aged 6 months and older.
Cost: $14.36
Pros
Cons
Best Children’s Multivitamins For Picky Eaters
If you have a picky eater who rejects most children’s vitamins, this picky eater vitamin brand is a great option.
Renzo’s Picky Eater Multivitamin
Renzo’s is a newer brand that has great reviews amongst the picky eater crowd. It was created by a doctor who wanted better vitamins for his young son before going into an important surgery.
This complete multivitamin with iron comes in melty tabs and has 18 essential vitamins while being vegan and having no added sugar. The multivitamin is available in two delicious flavors: cherry and green apple. It is approved for children 2 years and older, making it one of the best vitamins for picky eater toddlers.
60 melty tabs per box.
Cost: $23.39
Pros
Cons
Best Toddler Multivitamin
Though some of the other listed vitamins are formulated for kiddos aged 2-3+, these two options are two of the best vitamins for toddlers.
Note: if you are looking for a specific toddler vitamin with iron, there isn’t currently one on the market that I recommend. You may want to speak with your doctor about giving your child an iron-only supplement in addition to one of these vitamins.
Smarty Pants Toddler Multi & Probiotics
This multivitamin has it all: essential vitamins and minerals, probiotics, and omega-3s. It is an organic vitamin that has over 13 nutrients and fantastic fruit flavors. It is easy to find at most major retailers and has flavors that kid-approved flavors.
Each package comes with 60 gummies (a 30 day supply) and are formulated for kids 2-3 years of age.
Cost: $23.18
Pros
Cons
Garden for Life Baby
If chewables or gummies are a choking hazard to your toddler or if they simply prefer a liquid, Garden of Life Baby Multi-Vitamin liquid may be a great option. This variety is safe for babies as well as toddlers so it can be a great multi for your child to grow with.
Each bottle contains 56 servings and is formulated for ages 1 year+.
Cost: $16.79
Pros
Cons
Best Whole Foods Based Children’s Vitamins
If you are looking for a vitamin that is made with healthy and whole foods, the following brand is for you:
Bluebonnet Nutrition Rainforest Animals Chewable Tablets
This whole foods based vitamin is one of the cleanest children’s vitamins: the chewable tablets are formulated with a base of super fruits. They contain 19 essential vitamins (including iron) and are a budget-friendly option for the number of tablets in each bottle.
Each bottle contains 180 chewable tablets. They are suitable for children ages 2+.
Cost: $29.45
Pros
Cons
Best Natural Vitamins For Kids
You can feel good about giving any of these natural vitamins to your children. They lack artificial ingredients and preservatives and one of them is even organic!
Garden of Life Organic Kids Multi Gummies
Made with an organic fruit base and no processed ingredients, these USDA-certified and third-party tested vitamins are rich in 17 essential vitamins and minerals. This is one of my favorite natural vitamin options, though the serving size of 4 gummies is somewhat large for picky eater kids.
120 vegan gummy bears per bottle. Suitable for children ages 4+.
Cost: $26.59
Pros
Cons
Garden of Life Vitamin Code Kids
Not only are these vitamins made with raw whole food, but they also have added probiotics for digestion. They are made with 25 fruits and vegetables and contain 15 essential vitamins and minerals. The chewable bear-shaped vitamins have a cherry berry flavor that is popular with kids.
Each bottle contains 60 chewable tablets, or 30 servings. Suitable for children aged 4 years and older.
Cost: $22.34
Pros
Cons
Best Vegan Children’s Multivitamins
Fill in any nutrition gaps your plant-based child may have with these vegan-friendly children’s multivitamins. They contain plant-based vitamin D3 and vitamin B12 and are made without gelatin, making them the perfect supplements for youngsters following a plant-based diet.
Llama Naturals Plant-Based Multivitamin
These iron-free real fruit gummy vitamins are a best-seller on Amazon and for good reason! They’re a hit with plant-based and non plant-based children alike. They are rich in water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, methyl B12, folate, biotin, and pantothenic acid as well as fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin K, making them a well-rounded option for your child. These multivites are free of all major allergens and featuring a tasty natural strawberry flavor.
90 fruit gummies per bottle. Suitable for children ages 2+.
Cost: $26.95 for 1 bottle ($24.26 for subscription orders)
Pros
Cons
Vitamin Friends Multivitamin & Iron for Kids
This vegan kids’ vitamins contains iron, B-complex, vitamin C, biotin, and zinc, making it a good choice for children who follow a vegan diet or don’t get enough iron in their diet. These gummies are made without gelatin and have a delicious strawberry flavor that kids love. They are also free of any common allergens.
60 vegan gummies per container. Suitable for children over two years of age.
Cost: $21.49
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Cons
Natures Plus Animal Parade Children’s Chewable Multivitamins
Another one on the list of best vitamins that are vegan is Natures Plus multivitamin. This chewable supplement is made with whole food ingredients such as spirulina, broccoli, whole brown rice, and carrot. Though this vitamin isn’t organic or non-GMO, is third-party tested.
180 chewable tablets (or 45 servings) per container. Suitable for children aged 2 and older.
Cost: $80.20 for 3 containers of vitamins (or $26.74/container)
Pros
Cons
Best Budget-Friendly Children’s Multivitamins
Don’t break the bank while still giving your child a quality multivitamin with this favorite budget-friendly brand.
Wellvites Kids Multivitamin Gummies
With most other non-GMO vitamins clocking in at over $25/month supply, this one can cost as low as $17.09 per month with Amazon’s subscribe and save option. These gummy vitamins are sugar-free, vegan, gluten-free and made without gelatin or artificial sweeteners.
Each bottle contains 60 gummy vitamins. Suitable for children over the age of two.
Cost: $18.95
Pros
Cons
Best Single Supplements For Kids
Healthy Children’s Iron-Only Supplements
Iron is a necessary nutrient for both adults and children. It allows the body to produce hemoglobin which transports oxygen via red blood cells throughout the body (source).
Most kids can get enough iron through iron-rich foods such as red meat, dark leafy greens, iron-fortified bread and breakfast cereal, nuts, and seeds, and more (source). If your child doesn’t eat many of these foods or follows a plant-based diet and has been diagnosed with iron deficiency, your doctor will likely want you to supplement with an iron-only supplement or a multivitamin with iron for kids. Otherwise, supplementing with iron is not necessary for most kids (source).
- Clever Bird Liquid Iron: Formulated for kids aged 1+ (check for your child’s recommended dose with your pediatrician), this supplement tastes great and is easily absorbed.
- Hiya Iron+ For Kids: Can be used for kids aged 2+, non-GMO, sugar-free, made with carbonyl iron to be gentle on tummies, includes Vitamin C for easy absorption, tastes great!
- Mary Ruth’s Liquid Iron For Toddlers: Organic, Non-GMO, Super clean ingredients list, formulated for kids aged 1-3 (note: there is also a Mary Ruth’s Liquid Iron For Kids ages 4+!), it’s hard to go wrong with this liquid iron supplement.
- Nature’s Nutra: Formulated for babies as well as kids, I like this option because of its clean ingredients list. No artificial colors or flavors, either.
Related: Best Chewable Iron Supplements For Kids
Best B12 Children’s Supplements
It can be a good idea to consider supplementing with vitamin B12 if your child follows a vegetarian or vegan diet or otherwise doesn’t eat a lot of animal protein. The vitamin plays a very important role in many essential body functions, including red cell formation, nerve function, metabolism, and more (source).
Good sources of vitamin B12 are red meat, chicken (especially dark meat), dairy products, and some fortified cereals (source), so if your child doesn’t eat many of these foods it can be a good idea to discuss supplementation with your child’s healthcare provider.
When researching these supplements, it’s always a good idea to look for supplements with methylated B12. This form of the vitamin is more bio-available, meaning that your kiddo’s body can absorb it most readily (source). Here are some of the best children’s vitamin B12 supplements on the market today, with all of them having methyl B12:
- Vimergy: An organic, vegan, and gluten-free vitamin B12 option that is naturally sweet and that kids love. Quite a high price tag ($63 for 2 ounces), but a quality product.
- Live Wise Naturals: These B12 drops are made with methylated B12, clean ingredients, and are formulated specifically for vegan toddlers and children. This brand isn’t organic but it is non-GMO and it sits at a more affordable price point ($19.99), though the price per ounce is higher as each bottle is only .4 fl oz.
- Nutra Champs: For a vitamin B12 supplement that comes with a B complex, Nutra Champs is a fantastic pick. It is budget-friendly ($20.66 for 2 ounces) and contains B1, B3, B3, B6, B7, B9, and methyl B12, though it is sweetened with monk fruit and stevia.
Best Vitamin C For Kids
I often get asked about the best vitamin C for kids. Vitamin C is an important vitamin because it helps boost the immune system and also repairs red blood cells (source). Here are my top vitamin C supplement picks:
- Raise Them Well Children’s Immunity Chewable: With vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin K, and zinc, this is a good one to choose if your doctor also recommends that your child supplement with vitamin D. Note: consult your pediatrician if your child is already taking a multivitamin with these vitamins.
- Llama Naturals Vitamin C with Elderberry: Containing potent elderberry extract, these naturally sweetened gummies are delicious tasting, great for immune health, and rich in vitamin C and zinc. Because of this, Llama Naturals is some of the best vitamin C for toddlers!
- Children’s Best Organic Immune Support(with Elderberry): A great option for parents who want an organic vitamin C supplement for their children. Raspberry flavored with elderberry extract.
- Olly Kids Immunity: Delicious cherry flavor makes this gummy vitamin a hit with little ones. With vitamin C derived from Acerola cherry as well as elderberry and Zinc, these chews are not made with gelatin, making them vegan-friendly.
Related: Best Kids Immunity Vitamins to Fight Colds
Best Vitamin D Supplement For Kids
Unless your baby is formula-fed (and getting 32oz / day of formula), you will always want to supplement vitamin D for any infant 0-12 months (source). Older kids who have been diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency or otherwise don’t get enough vitamin D (or sun exposure) may be directed by their pediatricians to take vitamin D supplements as well. Here are a few of my top recommendations:
- Bobbie Vitamin D Drops: These organic, vegan Vitamin D drops are designed for infants 0-12 months and children aged 1-3 but personally, they could be used for kids older than 3 years as well. Just check with your pediatrician before using this for your child. They provide 100% of the daily recommendation for Vitamin D (400 IU) for infants 0-12 months, and 67% of the daily recommendation for Vitamin D (600 IU) for children 1-18 years (source). These drops are 3rd party tested, Clean Label Certified, have no artificial ingredients or added sugars, and are made without peanuts, eggs, wheat, milk, fish, shellfish, soy, and sesame.
- Llama Naturals Vitamin D Gummies: Plant-based vitamin D3 can be hard to find, but Llama Naturals does it again! This vegan gummy vitamin is great for adults as well as kids. They are made with vitamin D3 that is sourced from lichen and that can help with bone health, immunity, and more. No added sugar cane or artificial ingredients.
- Raise Them Well Vitamin D Drops: With absolutely nothing (flavors, colors, etc.) added to these drops, they are fantastic for picky eater kids and young babies. All your baby needs is one drop of the supplement in their milk each day.
- BabyD Drops: Another fantastic vitamin D3 drop option and a favorite with pediatricians. This brand is certified organic, is easy to find, and has a neutral flavor.
- UpSpring: Gluten-free, non-GMO, and made with all-natural ingredients, UpSpring drops are a fantastic pick. They can be hard to find but do tend to be more budget-friendly.
Best Children’s Omega 3 Supplements
Fatty acids such as Omega-3’s are one of the key nutrients growing kids need. In fact, DHA, one of the Omega-3’s, is found in breast milk and is added to most regular and organic baby formulas. This fatty acid is crucial in eye and nervous system health as well as brain development throughout infancy (source). As kids get older, they still need omega-3s for healthy development and growth, brain function, and even improving sleep and mood (source). For that reason, it’s always a good idea to make sure your child is getting enough healthy fatty acids. Here are some of my favorite picks:
- Nordic Naturals: This fish oil supplement tastes like strawberry, making it a favorite with kids. It contains DHA and EPA, improving learning, immune system function, and brain development. It is made with 100% wild arctic cod, making it a safe source of Omega-3s. Because of this, it is not vegetarian or vegan-friendly, however.
- ChildLife Cod Liver Oil: Another fantastic kid-friendly fish oil supplement. This cod liver oil has a strawberry flavor and the bottle has recommended dosage for kids aged 6 months to 4 years.
Related: BEST Kids Vitamins for Brain Development
Healthiest Probiotic Supplements For Kids
Probiotics can help with your young one’s digestion, immune system, brain health, and more (source). Since there are currently no official dosage recommendations for children, it is generally the best idea to add probiotics to your child’s diet by encouraging probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, kombucha, sourdough bread, and more (source).
If your child doesn’t prefer to eat these foods, it can be a good idea to discuss supplementation with your doctor. Here are some of the best kid-friendly probiotic supplement options:
- Hiya Probiotics: 10 billion live cultures make these chewable probiotics an immunity and gut health superstar. Subscription-based purchasing model for the ultimate convenience.
- Bobbie Probiotic Drops: These USDA organic certified liquid probiotic drops are designed for infants 0-12 months, but personally, they could be used for kids older than 12 months as well. Just check with your pediatrician before using this for your child. They include 1 billion live cultures with two strains of probiotics. They’re 3rd party tested, Clean Label Certified and were granted the Pesticide Free Award. They also happen to be virtually tasteless and can be mixed into just about anything!
- Llama Naturals Probiotics: With a prebiotic as well as a probiotic, this real fruit-sweetened gummy with peach mango flavor is always a kid favorite!
- Garden of Life Chewable Probiotic: This variety of kids probiotic features 14 strands of probiotics along with vitamins C and D, making it a multitasking powerhouse. It is organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free.
- Garden of Life Powdered Probiotic: Easily mix this powdered probiotic into mix, yogurt, infant formula, or juice for easy supplementation. It has a neutral flavor so it doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or sweeteners.
- Children’s Best Organic Gummy Probiotic: These gummies are made in the United States and have a fantastic strawberry flavor. They are non-GMO and contain 2.5 billion live cultures per serving.
Bonus: Learn more about the best probiotics for kids here.
The Healthiest Prebiotic Supplement For Kids
Prebiotics are sources of food for probiotics, allowing the probiotics to better benefit the digestive system (source). Prebiotics can be a tricky one to find for children because many of the popular brands contain stabilizers and other artificial colors and flavors.
The one prebiotic brand that I do confidently recommend is BeginHealth. It contains only three ingredients: Human Milk Oligosaccharide (with a Molecular structure identical to the one found in breast milk); and Oligofructose (Chicory root fiber). It’s super clean and really effective!
What Are Multivitamins For Kids?
Children’s multivitamins are a daily supplement containing vitamins and minerals that are created to be a dietary supplement to your child’s diet. All of the vitamins reviewed here have vitamin amounts following recommended dietary allowances, which are set by the Food and Nutrition Board (source).
Should Your Child Take A Multivitamin? Is It Safe To Give Multivitamins To Children?
Most pediatricians will tell you that a multivitamin is not necessary for most healthy children who are growing normally and eat a well-balanced diet (source). Kids and young children who eat well and eat a variety of foods can get all of the nutrients they need from whole foods.
But, for kids who are picky eaters, aren’t growing well, have food allergies, have been diagnosed with certain medical conditions, or follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet, a multivitamin supplement may be a good idea to consider. They can help fill nutritional gaps and encourage healthy development, supplying your children with the essential nutrients to thrive.
As always, however, always speak with your healthcare provider before giving your child vitamin supplementation. If they suggest giving your child a multivitamin, then definitely do so.
What To Look For In A Multivitamin?
Kid’s vitamins generally come in two groups: kid’s vitamins with iron and those without iron. Always consult your doctor about which category of vitamin to shop for, as they will have the best recommendation for your child’s needs.
Otherwise, kids multivitamins usually come with the following vitamins:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- B Vitamins (B6, B12, Biotin, Folate)
- Zinc
Some vitamins also have calcium added, but not many do, as calcium is a bulky mineral which would likely make the vitamins too large for little ones to comfortably consume. Calcium is a very important mineral, however, as it is responsible for building strong bones. It is therefore important for your child to get calcium from food sources such as dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese) leafy green vegetables, salmon, legumes, seeds, and more (source). If your child doesn’t ingest many of these ingredients, consult your pediatrician starting your child on a quality calcium supplement, such as ChildLife Essentials.
When looking at the nutrition label a multivitamin label, double-check that none of the ingredients have more than 100% of the daily recommended amount. Vitamins are meant to be a supplement to your child’s diet, meaning that since your child may already likely be getting vitamins in their diet they do not also need the full daily amounts in vitamin form.
Also, consider the dosage for your child’s age when evaluating the vitamin’s nutritional label. Some vitamins are more suited for younger or older children, given the concentration of vitamins in them, and will give serving sizes for ages accordingly.
What To Avoid In Kids Vitamins?
Though all of the options on this list are healthy kids vitamins options, here are some things to look out for on vitamin ingredient labels when considering other children’s vitamins brands:
- Carrageenan: An emulsifier that thickens products, but it has been linked to high levels of inflammation in the body, digestive issues, and chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease (source).
- Artificial colors and flavors: By definition, artificial colors and artificial flavors are highly processed, synthetic ingredients. Synthetic colors such as Red #40, Blue #2, Yellow #6 have been linked to many different health problems, including cancer, hypersensitivity reactions, and more (source).
- Artificial Sweeteners: In particular, aspartame, sucralose, sorbitol, mannitol, or other sugar alcohols. These are an issue because some sugar alcohols can cause digestive issues and discomfort for some people (source). Mannitol is typically better tolerated than sorbitol, so in choosing between the two, I would avoid sorbitol over mannitol.
- Maltodextrin: While this ingredient isn’t considered to be an unsafe product for consumption, it is highly processed (source), often indicating that the vitamin is highly processed as well.
- Excess Added Sugar: Whereas most children’s multivitamins need some level of sweetening to make them palatable for the child to consume (as swallowable vitamins are seldom an option for most children), I usually look for 4-5 grams of naturally-derived sugar or less per serving.
A note on gelatin: While this isn’t a harmful ingredient, it is derived from cow or pig bones, tendons, and ligaments, making it not suitable for anyone following a plant-based diet or vegetarian diet.
FAQs
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “infants, children, and adolescents need to consume a variety of vitamins and minerals in recommended amounts to ensure typical growth and development. Vitamins are present in human (breast) milk and in a variety of nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains” (source).
Infants who are consuming breast milk only, or who are consuming less than 32 ounces of formula per day need an additional vitamin D supplement; infants consuming 32 ounces or more of a government-approved formula (per day) do not need any supplementation (source). Older kids and adolescents who consume a well-rounded diet do not need a vitamin supplement for optimal health, as they get enough nutrients and different vitamins from what they eat (source).
Note: Certain vitamins and minerals, namely vitamins A, C, D, and iron can be toxic in large quantities (source). Always consult your doctor before starting your child on a vitamin.
Unfortunately, vitamins and supplements are not FDA approved. It is for this reason that trustworthy third-party testing is very important when considering the best vitamins for your kids. Reliable third-party testing companies are USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com.
It is somewhat expensive for vitamin manufacturers to undergo third-party testing with any of these three companies, meaning that many of the brands that are certified tend to be more expensive.
Because of this, it also means that there are likely many vitamin companies out there that are healthy to consume but are not third-party tested simply because they did not have the budget for it. For this reason, it is important to research the vitamin companies and always speak with your doctor before consuming a new vitamin brand.
Kids should start taking a vitamin when their pediatrician recommends that they do. Your pediatrician will assess your child’s diet, and any other medical conditions to determine whether they should start on a multivitamin.
Yes, some of the ingredients in children’s multivitamins can cause constipation as well as diarrhea or upset stomachs. A common constipation-causing ingredient is iron. If you ever have concerns, please reach out to your doctor, but often the constipation or stomach upset will disappear as your child’s body adjusts to the supplement. Otherwise, talk with your provider about switching to a multi without iron or to a vitamin that also contains probiotics.
Yes, theoretically adults can take children’s vitamins, as there is no harm in doing so. The amount of the vitamins and mineral supplements in the vitamins, however, will likely be much lower than the daily values needed to supplement an adult’s diet.
Final Thoughts
I hope this helps you in navigating the world of kids’ vitamins! As you can see, there are many quality vitamin brands on the market today, with a quality option for every child’s needs.
After reading this list, always discuss vitamin supplementation with your child’s doctor before choosing the best option for them.
For more guides, recipes, tips, and tricks, check out the Best For Kids section of my blog. If there’s a fabulous kids vitamin brand that I missed, be sure to let me know in the comments! And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment or send me a message – I respond to every question I get!
Hi,
What do you think about the brand Naturelo?
I was looking at the mens and women (Not the 1 a day) and the childrens chewable.
Thanks!
Hi Megan! For the children’s chewables – they add stevia to it which I don’t love (since it doesn’t say stevia leaf extract, we can’t be sure what form of stevia this is). The mens and womens vitamins look good though!
Just as an FYI, if you look at the website Naturelo says that the sweetener comes from Stevia leaf extract. I’m not sure why it doesn’t specify that on the bottle.
I just bought these for my kids. Do you know the reasoning behind why the vitamins are for children 4 and up? I wanted to give them to my three year old as well as my give year old.
Oh that’s great – thanks for the heads up about that – with Stevia Leaf Extract I feel much more comfortable with it! I think the reasoning behind labeling some vitamins for kids 4+ vs. kids under 4 is due to the quantity of each vitamin in the pill. If you’re giving it to your 3 year old, I’d just check with your pediatrician that you don’t have to cut the vitamin in half to limit the dosage (so that they’re not getting too much of a vitamin they may not need at a younger-than-4 age!)
What are your thoughts on juice plus products for kids?
Hi Nacia! Do you mean the Juice Plus chewable supplements of fruits & veggies? I don’t like the chewables because they have tapioca syrup, cane juice and maltodextrin as the first three ingredients listed. The capsules are fine, but might be too difficult for kids to swallow. And neither option really counts as a full multivitamin because they are more focused on powdered fruits/veggies than a complete multivitamin. I’d probably go with a multivitamin over these and try to have your kids get their veggies/fruits from whole food sources. Let me know if that makes sense and if you have any other questions!
What about these? https://www.buybuybaby.com/1/1/71630-honest-baby-toddler-complete-vitamin-multi-powder-from-the-honest-company.html
Hi Manjiri! These look pretty good to me! They have cane sugar added but not too much (only 2g sugar per serving which is only 1/2 tsp).
Hi, Thanks for the useful information! I saw that the YummiBears Organic Multivitamin have gelatin from pork skin. It is noted in the FAQ section of their website. Would that change your recommendation?
Hi Seema! YummiBears specifically notes on their website that they do not use gelatin in their organic vitamins – see their website here. Can you show me where you saw gelatin listed as an ingredient for their vitamins? Thanks so much!
Hi,
Great article.
On yummy bears website in faq section it actually says that’s their gelatin is non gmo and it is from pork skin . So definately not vegetarian:(
Thanks .
Hi Valerie! The Yummy Bears Organic vitamins don’t have gelatin. Some of the yummy bears vitamins have gelatin (like the sugar free multivitamin). But the Yummy Bears Organic vitamin listed here – which is the one that I recommend – is made with pectin, not gelatin. Hope that clarifies things!
hi, thank you for your this. Do you think Little Critters multivitamin is ok?
Hi Melissa! Yes Little Critters Multivitamin looks good – except that if you are vegetarian it won’t work because it has gelatin in it. But if you aren’t vegetarian it’s a good option! It doesn’t have iron in it so that’s just something else to consider. Hope that helps!
What are your thoughts on Puritan’s Pride Children’s Multivitamins & Mineral Gummies? Thanks for your time!
Hi Mike! I don’t like Puritan’s Pride as much as some of the other multivitamins on this list because they have corn syrup and maltodextrin added. They also have gelatin which makes them not vegetarian friendly (for those who are vegetarian). Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Love your article. Do you have any suggestions on a flavorless multivitamin? Or a flavorless omega 3 vitamin? My son is two and autistic and will not take chewables or gummies. He only drinks milk so I’m definitely not worried about vitamin d, but his food list is pretty small and not so healthy.
Hi Stephanie! I’m not sure about a flavorless multivitamin, but Zarbee’s has a liquid one that you can mix into milk, and Rainbow Light has a powdered form that can also be mixed into milk! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
This was SO helpful! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Aw yay!! I’m so happy to hear that Nicole!! 🙂 🙂
Wow – great article. Thanks for all the information. What’s your take on the Plexus XFactor Kids vitamins?
Hi Alex! Overall Plexus is pretty good – they just have two ingredients in their vitamins that I’m not a huge fan of: 1) Hydroxypropyl Cellulose – which I don’t love as an emulsifier because it’s made from refined wood pulp – but it’s not harmful as far as I can tell from a research standpoint – it’s not absorbed by the body so it just passes through and 2) Xylitol & Erythritol – which are sugar alcohols. In the quantity that’s in the vitamin it’s probably fine – sugar alcohols are to be avoided in large quantities because they can cause gas/bloating/diarrhea – but again, in the quantity used for the vitamin it’s probably ok! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
I give my son the plexus xfactor chewable for kids and their vital biome for anxiety. It has helped him TOOOONS!
As I read your comment I coud not help but wonder what else is out there as a substitute for Hydroxypropyl Cellulose orXylitol & Erythritol? Thank you kindly.
Hi Rosalie! Most of the vitamins I recommend just don’t use sugar alcohols at all – they sweeten the vitamin with fructose or fruit extracts – so that’s the alternative there. Instead of the synthetic cellulose, some brands use plant cellulose or don’t use any at all. Hope that helps!
How do you feel about Zarbee’s toddler multivitamins. I like the ideal of Garden of Life but it says for 4 years and up. My daughter is 2.
Hi Colleen! Zarbee’s multivitamins look good. The only issue I see is that they have honey and sugar added but it ends up being only 3g per serving (which is about 3/4 tsp of sugar) per day. They don’t have iron in them so that’s something to consider but other than that they could work!
Thank You! She has bathroom issues so I need to stay away from iron at the moment.
That makes sense! No problem at all!
You had stated that the vitamin shouldn’t have 100 percent or more of the needed daily dose of each specific vitamin but it looks like your top 3 favorites have over that. Like 200 percent vitamin c and 100 percent or more on almost all others. So I guess I’m a little confused. Thanks for your time. Dawn
Hi Dawn! That’s a great question! I should have been clearer in my post. The vitamin shouldn’t have more than 100% or more of the daily value for Vitamins A, E and K (the fat soluble vitamins). But for Vitamin C all the water soluble vitamins it’s completely fine. Vitamin D, even though it’s a fat soluble vitamin often has more than 100% daily value because most people (even kids) are deficient in it – so that should be fine as well. And even if it does have >100% of the dose for A, E or K you can just give your child half the dose. I updated my post too – to make that clear! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi there, I was wondering the same thing…specifically about the non-iron Klaire Labs capsules. It doesn’t appear to be made just for children and the serving size says 6 capsules. All the daily values are considerably above 100%. Is there a dose that would be recommended for a 2 and 4 year old? Also, many of the reviewers mentioned it helped their child’s behavior. Is this a general multi vitamin or one that’s recommended for children with behavioral issues? Thanks!
Hi Janice! On the label it says: “Suggested Use: Adults or Children 4 or more years of age: 6 capsules daily with food. Children under 4 years of age: As directed by a healthcare professional.” I think that’s why they have 6 capsules per “serving” – because for a 4 year old you wouldn’t use all 6 and would be able to easily cut the dose down to be appropriate for that age. But for a 2 year old, I don’t know that you’d be able to cut the dose down to be small enough for that age. I’d just ask your pediatrician what they think about it to figure out the right dosing for your youngest! As for vitamins recommended for children with behavioral issues, I don’t know of any recommended for general behavioral issues, but for ADD/ADHD specifically I know that 1) Fish Oil, 2) A B-Complex Vitamin, 3) A Zinc, Magnesium and Calcium supplement like this one, 4) A probiotic, and 5) Rhodiola Rosea – which is an herb that can help with focus. I like this supplement for Rhodiola Rosea for kids. But again, those are what I’ve heard can help with ADD/ADHD – so you can ask your pediatrician whether they think any of these might help with general behavior! Hope that makes sense! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi Anjali! So glad I found your blog and so cool that you’re in AA! I’ve been searching for a great supplement for my kids to take since they’ve been sick 2x (already!) since going back to school. Would love your input on this one: https://www.target.com/p/l-il-critters-153-fruit-n-honey-vitamin-c-130ct/-/A-51444607 . It’s the L’il Critters™ Fruit’n Honey Vitamin C, I need something to boost their immune system and it doesn’t have the bad stuff (I hope).
Hi Trina! So that Vitamin C supplement is actually pretty good! The only less ideal ingredient is that it does have added sugar. And if you’re vegetarian it’s made with gelatin so that’s not good either (but not an issue if you are not vegetarian!). But everything else looks good, and the amount of sugar is small – 3g per serving, so that’s about 3/4 tsp sugar added. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Thank you! This is so helpful!
No problem at all! 🙂
Hi, What is your opinion of SmartyPants Kids Complete gummy vitamins?
Hi Carol! SmartyPants Kids Complete Gummy Vitamins actually look great! The only downside is that they are a bit higher in sugar than I’d like — 5g per serving which is more than some of the other options on this list, and they have gelatin in them which makes them non-vegetarian – but other than that the ingredients look good. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi! Thank you for All of your info on kids vitamins! I have been so confused and ran across your blog and am so greatful to you for posting this all! I researched a couple weeks ago and found one I liked. I wanted something with omega 3 fish oil. I see you said you like the Smarty pants multivitamin besides the sugar content. So the one I got was Smarty pants Multivitamin with omega fish oil, fiber.i wanted to see what you thought of these before I gave them to him. I have been waiting to switch because I wasn’t sure but I’ve been giving him flinstones for years. I really want to switch from the flinestones . He also takes juice plus every day! Thanks for your help!
Hi Leanne! No problem at all – so glad you found my post helpful! The Smarty Pants vitamins with fish oil & fiber looks good! It does have sugar added but it’s only 2g per serving which isn’t bad at all. It has gelatin in it, so that just makes it non-vegetarian – which isn’t relevant if you aren’t vegetarian 🙂 I think they would be a good choice to switch from the Flinstones vitamins! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
This is only anecdotal but we are not the only family I know who experienced this – something in Smarty Pants Kids with Omega-3s causes ADHD symptoms to become worse. I cannot figure out what it is but I see a marked difference in both of my kids and have spoken to friends with kids with ADHD who have had the same issues.
Hi Vita! Oh no! That’s disappointing to hear. Thank you for letting me know – if I hear of a significant number of cases like this I will certainly update my list!
In order to balance/process the mythelated folate one needs the appropriate amount of B1 and B2 which smarty pants does not have. Most will get the Bs they need through wheat products that are enriched; however, if you are gluten free these are harder to come by. This embalance can causesome to feel jittery/high energy. The same thing happened to me when using their vitamins.
Ohhh makes sense! Thanks for clarifying Meg!
Hello, I just came across your blogs,they’re very informative thank you. I was wondering your thoughts on the smarty pants organics for toddlers and if you have any recommendations for organic multivitamins for toddlers. Thank you.
Hi Jenni! The Smarty Pants Organic vitamins for toddlers look good! I have added them to my list. But any of the vitamins on my list would work for toddlers — some may just have to have a lower dose depending on whether the vitamin is for ages 2+ or 4+. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Thank you for this article! What about OLLY Kids Super Foods Multi-Vitamin Gummy Supplements? How would you rate those? https://www.amazon.com/Super-Foods-Multi-Vitamin-Gummy-Supplements/dp/B01A6ERQ6U/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1502203794&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=olly%2Bvitamins&th=1
Hi Courtney! Those vitamins actually look pretty good! I don’t love that they add sugar to them — but that’s the only ingredient that stands out as less-than-ideal — and at least it’s a small amount of sugar from natural sources. Hope that helps!
We use these mulit vitamins for my kiddos. Would these be okay? Thank you.
https://doterra.com/US/en/p/doterra-a2z-chewable
Hi Jessica! The doTerra vitamins aren’t bad, but there are a couple ingredients that I don’t love: 1) Stevia extract – while I’m ok with “Organic Stevia Leaf” as an ingredient since that’s a whole food, “stevia extract” is something I lump into the category of “fake sugar” – since just about anything can be included in the extract – it’s not as tightly regulated as organic stevia leaf. 2) Microcrystalline cellulose is a refined wood pulp used as an emulsifier for vitamins. It’s not harmful, but it is an ingredient I like to call out because it’s also not natural. It is hard to find the “perfect” vitamin though, as one of the vitamins on my list does include microcrystalline cellulose, and another has organic stevia leaf in it (but not stevia extract). Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Thank you, that does help. 🙂
You are right, it is hard to find the perfect. I think for now as long as both my kiddos like them and are willing to eat them, we’ll keep them. I’ll keep your list saved though for future reference.
Makes sense Jessica! And yeah exactly – nothing is 100% perfect and the doTerra ones are definitely better than most of the vitamins on the market (like Flinstones, etc.)! Glad it was helpful!
How about yummy bears organics from whole foods? It says allergen, dairy, gluten, GMO n gelatin free.
Hi Aarthi! Great question! I didn’t know about this brand. So yes – Yummi Bears Organics Multivitamin and Yummy Bears Complete Multivitamin (not organic) are both good. The Yummy Bears Sugar Free Multivitamin isn’t great because it has gelatin in it, so it’s not veggie/vegan friendly. None of their multivitamins contain iron – so that’s something to consider if you’re looking for one that does have iron. But other than that they are a good brand! I’ll add them to the list in this post!
Hi, I realize that this is probaby not going to be a popular question but I’m at my wits end with trying to figure this out. Is there a gummy vitamin with iron that you recommend? My son has sensory processing issues and texture is a huge deal for him. He will NOT take anything but a gummy vitamin and his iron is low.
Hi Kelly! Hmm I actually haven’t found a gummy vitamin with iron that I like (yet!) But an alternative could be using the gummy vitamin in this post without iron, and then mixing the liquid iron supplement into his food or into something he drinks? Would that work do you think?
A gummy with iron can be found in zarbees children’s multivitamin plus iron (try target website)depending on your child’s age he could probably take it but the reviews about the taste are not so great. I guess because of the smell from iron. They are natural gluten and gelatin free.
Thanks for the rec! I found it on Amazon too! Here is the link – and I have added it to my list! 🙂 It’s ok if the taste isn’t that great because they don’t add any unnatural ingredients (which is probably why the taste is still not the best). But I’d rather have that than a gummy vitamin with a ton of additives in it!
Hello please try Vitamin friends Iron Gummies.
They are already on my list in this post! 🙂
Hello, do you think Nature’s Plus Animal Parade Gold-Children’s Multi-Vitamin is good? It says it’s vegan and contains xylitol?
Hi Michele! Yes it does look good! Xylitol is just a sugar alcohol, which, in small quantities is ok (it can be irritating to the digestive system for some people though). Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hello, thank you for this list! The Amazon listing makes it appear that prop 65 applies to this product… is this a mistake? If not, why is that not a concern? Thanks again!
Hi Emily! I saw the Prop 65 warning for Seeking Health (which is why I moved them down to the “Runners Up” section), but not for Nature’s Plus. Can you send it to me? Then I can look into it. Thanks!
If you have dogs, I would HIGHLY recommend not having anything in the house with Xylitol. It is highly toxic to dogs – even just a small amount could kill your dog.
That’s a great point Melanie! Even though xylitol isn’t really harmful to humans, it would be horrible if a dog accidentally ate a vitamin that had xylitol in it (that fell on the floor by accident!)
WHat do you think about Nordic Berries? It has 6g sugar per serving. None I have found has vitamin K so I thought I might do the kids amazing grass greens drink too but it has Stevia. It has vitamin K too.
Hi Britney! Nordic Berries actually has 8g sugar per serving, and for that reason I’m not a fan of them. 8g sugar is almost as much as one fun sized milky way bar! It’s like candy. For the Amazing Grass Greens Drink – it does have Stevia, which I don’t love giving to kids (it’s totally fine for adults). I’d probably recommend one of the other vitamins on my list – it’s not critical that a multivitamin has vitamin K in it. Vitamin K is important but it’s a fat soluble vitamin (so you definitely don’t want to take too much of it). We get it from food, and we produce it ourselves like Vitamin D – Vitamin K is made from certain bacteria in your gut. Vitamin K deficiency is extremely rare in the general healthy population; those who are deficient tend to have problems with gastrointestinal function or have taken medications known to interfere with its metabolism. That’s why, unless your pediatrician recommends it for your child, most kids don’t need Vitamin K supplementation. Hope that helps!
Hello Anjali what about vitane oral liquid growth and appetite tonic is it okay to give my 2.4year old?
Hi Ruth! I couldn’t get any information on what the additional ingredients are besides just the vitamins included. So I’d just check with your pediatrician to make sure they are comfortable with this for your child!
I have a 55 lb 8 year old who can swallow pills lik and a boss, but doesn’t really like the taste of gummies. Are there any vitamins he can swallow without tasting it?
Hi Annie! This one from Thorne Research comes in a capsule, and this one from Garden of Life is technically a chewable vitamin, but it’s not a gummy so it can also be swallowed whole. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
What about ChildLife Cod Liver Oil? We tried Nordic Naturals Omega 3 (that’s what I have taken for years) but it was not as effective for our child’s state of mind as ChildLife.
Hi! ChildLife Cod Liver Oil is a great option! I have added them to my list above. Thanks!
Hi i want to know what do you think about childlife liquid vitamin C ?
It’s good! No issues ingredients wise.
What vitamin should i give to my son? He is small and he is 7 kg for 8 mos.
Hi! For an infant under a year old, Rainbow Light can be mixed into any food or milk so it’s a good option, or Zarbee’s comes in liquid form so it’s easy to feed to babies.
Is the powder form of rainbow light the only one you recommend? What about the KidsOne with probiotics?
Hi Lisa! Do you mean this one? If so, most of the ingredients are good – but they use a lot of artificial flavors (masked as “natural pineapple flavor” for example) – which I don’t love. That’s the only reason I didn’t include them on my list!