Hiya vs. First Day: A Head-to-Head Kids' Vitamin Battle
When navigating the crowded market of children's multivitamins, two brands often rise to the top of parental consideration: Hiya and First Day. Both are positioned as healthier, higher-quality alternatives to traditional, sugar-laden gummy vitamins. Yet, they differ significantly in their formulation, delivery, and overall philosophy. Understanding these differences is crucial for any parent trying to make the best nutritional choice for their child.
The Case for Hiya: Zero Sugar and High Potency
Hiya's standout feature is its commitment to being a zero-sugar multivitamin, a fact praised by pediatric dentists concerned about sugary gummies contributing to cavities.
Key Characteristics of Hiya:
- Form: Hiya vitamins are chewable tablets, not gummies. This solid form avoids the dental and choking hazards associated with sticky gummies, especially for younger children. The chewable tablet also offers better nutrient stability compared to some gummy formulas.
- Ingredients: Hiya contains a powerful blend of 15+ essential vitamins and minerals, along with a mix of 12 fruits and vegetables. It uses natural sweeteners like monk fruit and mannitol instead of added sugar.
- Age Range: Hiya's multivitamin is recommended for children aged 2 and up, offering a two-tiered nutrition facts label to reflect the differing needs of 2-3-year-olds versus older kids.
- Nutrient Levels: For younger children, Hiya provides high concentrations of many vitamins and minerals, often exceeding 100% of the Daily Value. While potentially beneficial for very picky eaters, this high potency is a point of consideration, especially if a child gets many nutrients from their diet already.
- Packaging: The brand uses eco-friendly, reusable glass bottles that kids can decorate with stickers, making the daily vitamin routine fun.
The Case for First Day: Lower Sugar and Whole-Food Based
First Day focuses on a low-sugar, whole-food-based formula, marketing itself as a supplement to fill gaps rather than providing a high-potency dose.
Key Characteristics of First Day:
- Form: First Day offers gummy vitamins, which many children find more appealing than tablets due to their taste and texture. However, the gummy form means there is still a small amount of added sugar, and the gummies can melt if not refrigerated.
- Ingredients: First Day gummies contain 2 grams of added sugar per serving, sourced from organic cane sugar and tapioca syrup. They also incorporate an organic superfoods blend derived from fruits and vegetables like kale, spinach, and beets.
- Age Range: First Day's kids' multivitamin is formulated for children ages 4 and up, so it is not an option for toddlers.
- Nutrient Levels: Following the 'more isn't always better' philosophy, First Day's multivitamin features more conservative nutrient percentages, with none of the Daily Values (DV) exceeding 100% for children ages 4+. This makes it a gentler supplement for children who already have a reasonably balanced diet.
- Packaging: First Day also uses sustainable packaging and offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, unlike Hiya.
Comparison Table: Hiya vs. First Day
| Feature | Hiya | First Day |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Chewable Tablet | Gummy |
| Age Range | 2+ years | 4+ years |
| Added Sugar | 0g (naturally sweetened with monk fruit) | 2g per serving (organic cane sugar) |
| Nutrient Count | 15+ essential vitamins and minerals | 9 essential micronutrients |
| Nutrient Potency | Higher amounts, often >100% DV for younger kids | Conservative amounts, all <100% DV for kids 4+ |
| Ingredient Sourcing | High-quality, includes fruit/veg blend | Organic fruits and vegetables |
| Taste | Often described as vaguely fruity, some may dislike | Generally well-liked, fruity, not overly candy-like |
| Packaging | Reusable glass bottle, refillable pouches | Sustainable packaging, gummies may melt |
| Cost & Purchase | Monthly subscription only, ~$30/month | One-time or subscription, ~$39/month for one-time |
Making the Best Choice for Your Child
Choosing between Hiya and First Day ultimately comes down to your child's specific needs and your priorities as a parent. There is no universal 'better' option, but a more suitable choice for your family. Consider the following factors before deciding.
Factors to Consider:
- Age and Developmental Needs: For toddlers as young as two, Hiya is the only option between the two brands. Its higher potency can also be a significant advantage for the most restrictive picky eaters whose diets are heavily lacking across the board. For ages four and up, the field is open, and personal preference can guide the choice.
- Dietary Gaps and Philosophy: Do you want a robust, high-potency supplement to correct significant dietary deficiencies, or a more conservative one to fill minor gaps? First Day's conservative approach follows the philosophy that most nutrients should come from food. Hiya provides a more comprehensive, higher-dose approach.
- Form Factor Preference: Will your child take a chewable tablet, or is a gummy the only way to go? Hiya's chewable avoids potential issues with sugar and dental health, while First Day's gummy is designed for palatability. Be mindful that gummy vitamins can stick to teeth and may not be suitable for children under four due to choking risks.
- Sugar Concerns: For parents prioritizing zero added sugar for dental health or other reasons, Hiya is the clear winner. First Day's 2g is low compared to many mainstream options but is not sugar-free.
- Subscription Convenience vs. Flexibility: Both are primarily subscription-based, but Hiya requires emailing support to cancel, which can be frustrating. First Day allows for easier online cancellation.
Ultimately, a multivitamin should complement, not replace, a healthy diet. Consulting with your pediatrician or a registered dietitian is always recommended to assess your child's unique nutritional needs before starting any supplement. For more information on general nutritional guidelines, consider visiting the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.
Conclusion
The choice between Hiya and First Day depends entirely on your family's needs. Hiya is the preferred option for parents of toddlers (ages 2+) or those prioritizing zero sugar and higher-potency nutrients in a tablet form. Its robust nutrient profile and sustainable packaging are strong selling points. Conversely, First Day is a solid choice for children ages 4+ who prefer a gummy, have less significant nutritional gaps to fill, and whose parents favor a low-sugar, whole-food-based approach. Weigh your child's age, dietary habits, and preferences against each brand's unique offering to determine the best fit.
