Thanks for dropping by for Part 2: 1-2 year olds!
This is such a fun age and there are some so many great items for this age category it can be a little overwhelming.. here as a momma, are my top 10!
Starting off, this age group is all about exploration and learning new skills and being involved in everything!!
My first item would be an annual pass or monthly pass to somewhere new and exciting like a science centre, the one in Calgary has an amazing tot-zone. A local zoo, swimming classes, gymboree...whatever will get them into new environments learning and socializing.
Another top choice for this age group are items like a great step stool, this can serve as a chair or more-but you better believe that by year 2, it will be used daily from hand washing to helping momma!
There are some great ones out there at many price points.
An activity tree like this Tree top adventure from Manhattan toys, is a bit of a splurge, but it does so much your babe will be enjoying it for longer than you think...
Interactive books with music and lights are a huge hit at this age and get littles interested in reading! These are great for car rides and in mommas purse- you can never have enough, this is a great go to gift!
Practical gifts are always welcomed by parents- sure it might not be as fun for baby- but practicality has its silver lining too.. a few toys that would fit into that category are fresh and new sippy cups- soon baby will be onto the next step in its foody career so new cups with straws or push and release tops are great for baby to learn new skills..
Another one that can always be used is bath toys, simple but they get gross so quick - its nice to have new and fresh ones at the ready.
Activity and exploration toys like a sand/water table or small ball bit are great fun and offer hours of baby-tainment! These can be found at most local toy stores or of course, amazon.
From personal experience, shopping carts are like crack for littles, so metal, plastic, wood or whatever- its going to be loved!
Same goes for a sneaky place to hide out, wind down, play, read, snuggle... there are lots of options for tent like play structures so just keep in mind child's interests and space when you are choosing something like this..
Hope you enjoyed Part 2- Final part 3 will be up later this week! Happy shopping!!!!
Welcome to holiday gift giving part 1 of 3!!!
Im almost into my 3rd year with my little so by no means am i an expert at the first 3 years- i just adore gift giving and i know especially for those whom don't have kids- trying to but for littles is pretty much a shot in the dark. So wherever your coming from welcome! i hope you find this helpful.
Gift giving for Under 1 years old is really all about stuff that will make a parents life better- honestly skip the baby goods and offer them babysitting services, pop by and make them dinner or take baby so mom and dad can hit a cool and local brunch- think gift cards for adult things like food - or booze is always a welcome gift!!! If you feel the need to stray from the said advice, try these...
Personalized items are something really special and can be found in any price point. Also a gift that would be welcomed by parents as they often wouldn't choose to purchase this for their own children.
These stockings are just perfect for this time of year and for any age! They can be handmade or bought at a variety of retailers
Kids are selfish little buggers - also vain and LOVE looking at themselves so any kind of mirrored, sensory apparatus is going to be a hit for the next coming months..
Keeping with the sensory theme sensory balls are great play for babies and can grow with them.. my almost 3 year old still loves to play with these toys from time to time..
This Manhattan Skwish Rattle and Teether is also great for sensory and is very popular for its unique construction and durability.
Growth blocks are a really fun gift and can serve as a great prop for photos and keepsake moments for baby! Some really great ones can be found on etsy.
Another favourite and must-have item is this little JJ Cole Bundle Me car seat bag. It keeps winter babes warm and cozy- adult size too please!
Any kiddo is in style with these bohemian booties!!! - i love these Moccasins from Freshly Picked but they can also be found almost anywhere at any price point.
Look for these in leather with a good sole if the babe is walking - otherwise just go for cuteness!
The Ikea BUSA play tunnel is a hit for almost all ages and for $17 its a steal of a deal and a gift that will be enjoyed for years to come. I promise it will be destroyed from play before they outgrow it- great for indoor or outdoor use!
These sturdy Usbourne touchy-feely books are great for 0+ the books are bright and have a sensory aspect. They offer them in anything from animals to robots to snowmen so if your child has a favourite animal - I'm sure there is a book for that.
Still not sure? try a really over the top even tacky holiday outfit or onesie- this will be welcomed and offer great photo opps!
Hope your now filled with possibility and restored hope.. stay tuned later in the week for part 2; Great gifts for 1-2 year olds!
