ML Interest Tag: bubble-bath

The Best Way to Connect with a Tween Without Saying a Word

by Kate Loweth

The one thing we can agree on about the tween and teen years is that it’s all a bit unknown. Those typically chatty middle schoolers go from sharing everything about their day to responding with mono-syllabic answers when questioned about classes or friends. Or they just flat-out argue with you over everything.

Logically, we can understand that it’s all about our teens becoming independent people, but this change can put a serious strain on the parent-child relationship. While we used to connect with our kids by spending time with them, most teens spend the majority of their day in their rooms and prefer to hang out with friends over doing things with family members.

One thing you can do is connect with your tween/teen in non-verbal ways. Psychologist Lucie Hemmen shared some examples in a recent TikTok, and they really resonated with parents. Bonus: They don’t take much effort on your part.

@dr.luciehemmen

Videos are for educational use only. #parentingtips #parenting #parentingteens #parentingtweens

♬ original sound – Dr.LucieHemmen

Her list included small gestures parents can do to show their teenagers they care for them:

  • Clip a flower from your yard, put it in a vase, and place it in your teenager’s room to show your love.
  • Have a snack ready to go for when you pick up your exhausted teenager from sports practice or other activities.
  • Run a bubble bath for your child when they come home from volleyball practice.
  • Make your child’s bed for them while they’re in the shower to help them have a calm space before school.

Parents in the comments offered additional ideas, including preparing coffee for older teens who are heading off to work and making your child’s favorite dinner. Notice that none of these gestures cost a lot of money or are particularly time-consuming. “Small gestures can remind your teen that even though things can get tough between you, that you love them, you’re anticipating things that will make their day easier, and that you care,” Hemmen says.

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The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Water Play for Babies

by Lauren Hill

Keep baby cool and entertained this summer with sweet outdoor water play ideas they’ll love

When it comes to water play with babies, it’s easy to fall back on tub time. What’s not to love about bubble parties, paint parties, and letting your little one play with their favorite bath toys in a totally contained environment? It’s an easy way to keep kids cool (and clean) on a hot summer day. But it’s time to think outside the tub and leave the house for some creative outdoor water play with your little fish. Whether your child is scooting, crawling, cruising, or still working on tummy time, there are activities in this guide for them to enjoy. Just remember, splashing (and parental supervision) are required.

Water Painting

No Time for Flash Cards

Kids painting with no mess? Yes, please! Fill a tray with water, grab some brushes and sponges, and put your budding artist to work painting deck boards, rocks, driveway, or walls. Allison at No Time for Flash Cards suggests introducing different painting tools when attention starts to drift. Head over to her blog for more playtime tips.

DIY Car Wash

Design Mom

Upgrade from sprinklers by taking your little one through their very own car wash. Perfect for early walkers, they’ll love pushing their favorite “vehicle” through the water. Plus, you’re guaranteed some adorable photo ops. Visit Design Mom for a list of materials and assembly instructions.

Tummy Time with Water

Messy Motherhood

A little water transforms tummy time into a full-body sensory experience. Expect lots of giggles as your little one moves the water around and discovers the cause and effect of splashing. Check out how the resourceful mom over at Messy Motherhood set up this splash-tastic activity with items from around the house.

Giant Frog Pond

Asia Citro via Fun at Home with Kids

This giant frog pond provided hours of excitement for the tiny tadpoles over at Fun at Home with Kids. Hop over to the blog for instructions and sources for creating your own pond world.

Five Little Ducks Sensory Tub

The Imagination Tree

Attention, mama ducks! By adding an aquatic element to the classic children’s story, even the littlest ducklings will love taking the rubber ducks in and out of the bucket or tub as you sing the song. It’s a great way to work on numbers, counting, and music. Set the scene with instructions from The Imagination Tree.

Kiddie Pool Play

Learn Play Imagine

Your little one will have a ball splashing around in a kiddie pool filled with vibrantly colored plastic balls. Allison at Learn Play Imagine set up the pool for her 13-month-old twins, who loved—you guessed it—tossing the balls out onto the grass.

Baby Waterbed

Meri Cherry

A mini version of the popular water blob, these colorful “waterbeds” are perfectly sized for baby play. Great alone or when filled with bouncy balls and other objects, your little one will love pushing the water around inside. Visit Meri Cherry to learn how to make your own.

Water Scooping

Tinker Lab

Just water, a bucket, and colorful scooping tools can keep baby busy for a good long while. Using measuring cups, they'll practice how to pour, empty, and fill and will be captivated from start to finish. Get tips for play from Tinker Lab.

Tray Play

The Imagination Tree

Does your baby like water? Do you have a high chair or a baby plate with a suctioned bottom? Then you have everything it takes to try this. Babies will splash, trickle, pour, and go wild with just a little bit of water. Add a blast of color using food coloring to keep things interesting. Find out more from The Imagination Tree.

Gelatin Bath

Growing a Jeweled Rose

When you put blue Jell-O in the bathtub (try four boxes' worth, spread evenly on the bathtub floor), you get an awesome ocean adventure. Add plastic fish, boats, and duckies to keep with the theme. Learn more from the master of creative play at Fantastic Fun and Learning.

Bowls of Bubbles

The Imagination Tree

Sometimes the best toys are right in your kitchen cabinet. Anna at The Imagination Tree grabbed some measuring cups, plastic bowls, and dish soap and headed outside with her child for some bubbly fun. Her little one loved transferring the sudsy water from one container to another.

Cubes on a String

Dukes & Duchesses

Are you familiar with soap on a rope? Make an ice cube version of it by placing a piece of yarn throughout your ice cube tray and freezing colored cubes of water. The coolest part? The ice cubes, being attached, won’t slip away from your baby. Get the details from Dukes & Duchesses.

Rainbow Bath

Growing a Jeweled Rose

Babies love color and bubbles so why not combine the two? The blogger mama at Growing A Jeweled Rose throws food coloring and bubble bath in the sink for some rainbow water play.

Small Bowl, Big Fun

Childhood 101

A plastic bowl and a few baby-safe items are great for water play. Just a little bit of water is all you'll need, along with a few simple items such as large smooth rocks, spoons, and cups. This activity guarantees a wet baby so it's best on warm, sunny days. For more on this simple but effective experience, check out Childhood 101.

Baby-Safe Water Beads

Fun at Home with Kids

Water beads for baby? Yes, provided you make these mini, edible water beads. Follow this tutorial from Asia at Fun At Home with Kids. With just basil seeds, food coloring, and water, you’ll be on your way.

A Simple Sprinkler

MI PHAM via Unsplash

One of the easiest ways to let wee ones get some water action is turning on a sprinkler in the yard, set on low, of course. Any sprinkler head will do the job, but a kid-friendly one will add a little something extra to playtime.

Additional reporting by Gabby Cullen

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11 Cool Ways to Add Some Joy to Your Family’s Every Day

by Elizabeth Broadbent

Do you, like me, seem to run on anxiety, caffeine, and your children’s leftovers? Are you perpetually in a rush and pretty sure you’ve forgotten… something? (What was it?!) What if, and stay with me here, you were able to set aside that feeling of chaos and actually find joy?

Yes, it sounds cheesy. But don’t roll your eyes just yet. It’ll only take a few minutes a day. OK, so that sounds like a late-night infomercial (remember those?), but it’s true. While you can’t move to a commune and cultivate free-range sunflowers, you can take a few minutes to hit the pause button. Here are some easy ways to switch things up and make the whole family happier.

1. Have a whatever-makes-you-happy hour or a “yes day.”

One mom changed her life (yes, really) with what she calls a “whatever-makes-you-happy hour.” You know that ferocious hour sometime around dinner when kids turn feral? Rather than fighting it, this mom runs with it. For those 60 minutes, her kids do whatever they’d like, barring cruelty or serious danger, while she and her husband kid back with the adult beverages of their choice. This sounds daringly 1970s-ish, but it works. Her kids experience the joy of running wild. She has time to kick back. When it’s over, they come together and eat dinner as a calm, reconnected family (and clean up before bed).

Alternatively, try a “yes day.” We spend our lives telling our kids no. Why not spend a day, an afternoon, an hour, saying yes? Yes to board games or jump-rope competitions or ice cream for dinner or fairy wings in public. Check all the ground rules in this post (note: No danger allowed and set a budget!), then go forth and make some incredible memories together.

2. Make time to play.

You can waste your whole life on your phone, so set it down. Actually, stuff it in a drawer because it’ll inevitably go off. Everyone, including kids, now gets to spend an electronic-free hour doing . . . well, whatever they love other than electronics (remember books? They’re made of paper). Before dinner is a great time for this, so is the hour before bed. Hang from the ceiling if you want, but do what you love.

3. Remember that absence makes the heart grow fonder.

You’ll love your children even more if they aren’t around all the time. I promise. Prioritize alone time—for them and you. You could go the cheesy self-care route and take a bubble bath. You could craft. You could watch a TV show that isn’t geared toward five-year-olds. You could also go on a date, which I hear is something adults do from time to time. Reconnecting with your partner will help you find some sanity. Leave your phone in your bag while you’re at it!

4. Show some love.

Snuggle with your kids—science says it’s good for you. Hugging makes us happier, healthier, and less anxious, which is something your whole family deserves. After cuddling with the younger set (so long as they’re game), set your sights on your significant other. Sex therapist Vanessa Marin shares that a nightly makeout session that doesn’t lead to anything more is a pretty solid idea and may even prevent those in long-term relationships from becoming “touch-avoidant.” Sounds like a fun thing to try. I mean, a therapist recommended it.

5. Surprise and delight.

Life can be a real grind. While we can’t permanently decamp to a tropical paradise, we can break up the mind-numbing routine with moments of unexpected fun. No, you don’t have to go all manic pixie to do it: Give your kids dessert for dinner. Surprise them with a night of mini golf. Announce an impromptu movie night or declare a pajama day.

6. Un-schedule from time to time.

No, you can’t drop everything, but you can pick and choose. You don’t have to do every single activity presented to you. Take a weekend off from planned fun. Part ways with that sport your kid doesn’t love. Skip the birthday party. There are so many demands on your time; prioritize a few and let the others go. After all, kids spend their lives hurrying up. Give them—and yourself—a chance to chill.

7. Dedicate 10 minutes a day to each kid.

The experts behind Big Little Feelings call it the “10-minute miracle.” No phones, no siblings, just dedicated parent-and-kid time with no correcting or criticizing. For those 10 minutes, go all in on whatever game/bonkers make-believe scenario/craft activity your kid wants. Doing so should help curtail acting out—after all, many kids get extra unruly when they’re in need of connection and attention. Spend a bit of time every day giving it to them.

8. Practice gratitude.

There are lots of ways to do this. You can sign up for volunteer opportunities, talk about the things you’re thankful for (on more than just Thanksgiving), make a good deed calendar—whatever works for your family. But make sure you insist on the importance of giving back to others and being grateful for what you’ve been given. Life can seem too big and too busy, so stop and count your blessings, then pass them on to someone else. It’s one of the most important things you can do for your kids.

9. Share the smallest moments for the biggest smiles.

Remember those family photo albums with the plastic sheets you’d peel apart to lay down your favorite printed pics? That ship has sailed. Now you can create the most amazing time capsule for your family on the Tinybeans App (your kids will thank you one day when they’ve stopped rolling their eyes) and share all of your sweetest and silliest moments with family and friends. They’ll delight in seeing that first waddle or goofy smile each time they get an alert, and you’ll get a solid dose of joy every time they comment or react.

10. Host an impromptu dance party.

Turn up that music and dance! Oh, and sing along. Toddlers will love it. Older kids might try to hide. Don’t let them. Instead, crank the volume louder. Dancing is good for you. So is joy. Give yourself room to feel it.

11. Always have something to look forward to.

Make sure there’s always something good on the way—a trip to the ice cream shop, a birthday party, a night with friends. This goes for your kid and you. Then when times get tough, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. We need this more than you’d think: If the slog seems endless, we’ll quit. But with our eyes on the prize, we’re all. gonna. make. it.

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25 of the Best Holiday Gifts for 2-Year-Olds

by Kate Cartia

From the LEGO Duplo Dream Town Playground to the Gobbler 3-Wheel Scooter, these holiday gifts for 2-year-olds are perfect for busy little ones

Toddlers, specifically 2-year-olds, are developing at a rapid pace and they’re known to bounce from one activity to the next at warp speed. Finding gifts that keep them engaged, nurture their curiosity, and spark excitement is like striking holiday gold. To help you out, we’ve curated a list of unique gifts for 2-year-olds that are up for the task. From games that get kids counting to toys that teach how to communicate emotions to a racetrack that offers hours of fun—here are the best gifts for 2-year-olds this season. Got kids of other ages? Check out our top picks for gifts for 18-24 month-olds, teens and tweens, and babies!

LeapFrog Number Lovin' Oven

LeapFrog

This oven does it all. Counting and cooking, serving and sharing; this is preschool prep for little chefs. Complete with 16 fun ingredients and easy take-and-go play—everything fits right inside.

LeapFrog Number Lovin' Oven ($24.99)—Buy Here!

Playskool Friends Sesame Street Elmo’s On the Go Letters

Playskool

Who better to teach your little ones their alphabet than Elmo? Comes with a carrying case to keep all their letters in one place, too.

Playskool Friends Sesame Street Elmo’s On the Go Letters ($23.75)—Buy Here!

VTech® Go! Go! Smart Wheels® Spiral Construction Tower™

VTech

Get ready for some construction fun with this giant construction tower set. Over 4’ wide and over 2’ tall, this set has a giant spiral ramp, a bridge, a crane, a conveyer belt, elevator, and more! Cruise over each Smartoint® on the playset to hear revved up responses that drive learning!

VTech® Go! Go! Smart Wheels® Spiral Construction Tower™—Buy Here!

Bath Beep Beep Stickers in the Tub

Alex Toys

These fun soft reusable foam pieces stick to the wall when they get wet, and with 38 stickers, there's no end to bathtime fun.

Bath Beep Beep Stickers in the Tub ($19.49)—Buy Here!

Uptown White Wooden Play Kitchen

KidKraft

How chic is this play kitchen? A play phone, chalkboard, and towel rack add to the realism (but we do have to warn you—please don't try to put it together the night before).

Uptown White Wooden Play Kitchen ($174.14)—Buy Here!

MAGNA-TILES Downhill Duo

Target

Car-loving kids will adore this set designed for little hands (but big imaginations).

MAGNA-TILES Downhill Duo ($69.99)—Buy Here!

Mini Vet Playset

Battat

If you have a little animal-lover on your hands, this vet kit will let them put their healing skills to use.

Mini Vet Playset ($17.99)—Buy Here!

Honeysticks Bath Colour Drops

Honeysticks

These non-toxic tabs fizz and change color in the water, and they're free from fragrance and residue-causing dyes and chemicals.

Honeysticks Bath Colour Drops ($19.95)—Buy Here!

Pretend Play Bandages & Tin

NEEDLE & GRAIN

Let them fix up their stuffed animal's and doll's boo-boos with these reusable, oversized felt bandages.

Pretend Play Bandages & Tin ($22.00)—Buy Here!

Colorful Play Road Tape Set of 4 Rolls

Msgic Playbook

Create colorful roads anywhere—tables, cardboard boxes, floors, and more. (This is one of those things that definitely requires parental help to set up.)

Colorful Play Road Tape Set of 4 Rolls ($24.00)—Buy Here!

Chocolate Cake Play Food

Design Life Kids

Not only is this pretend cake lots of fun, we can't get over how pretty it is. It's ideal for their first tea parties and pretend baking.

Chocolate Cake Play Food ($80.00)—Buy Here!

Shape Sorting Toy Garage

Battat

Your 2 year old can practice sorting and color recognition by organizing each car into their own garage and opening and closing them with their coordinating colored key.

Shape Sorting Toy Garage ($39.00)—Buy Here!

Globber Primo Foldable Scooter

Globber

This 3-wheel scooter helps little ones learn balance and folds down for easy storage. Available in both pink and blue.

Globber Primo Foldable Scooter ($89.44)—Buy Here!

Sensory Play Lightbox

KiwiCo

KiwiCo's Sensory Play Lightbox is museum-inspired to light up each shape to let them mix and match, see how each shape fits together, and shows them how different colors blend to create new hues.

Sensory Play Lightbox ($79.95)—Buy Here!

bilibo by MOLUK

Fat Brain Toys

The bilibo is anything your kiddo wants it to be. A turtle shell. A rocking seat. A doll cradle. A helmet. There's a reason the bilibo is so popular.

bilibo by MOLUK ($29.95)—Buy Here!

Dinosaur Alphabet Poster

Society6

Dino-obsessed minis will love putting this up in their bedroom or playroom, and it's another great way to keep them excited for learning the alphabet.

Dinosaur Alphabet Poster ($16.80)—Buy Here!

ADORA PlayTime Baby Doll

ADORA

A classic baby doll with realistic features, soft-to-the-touch materials, and easy-care cleaning. This one is definitely a doll they'll love for years.

ADORA PlayTime Baby Doll ($52.43)—Buy Here!

Where's Bear? The Hide and Find Stacking Block Game

Peaceable Kingdom

Where's Bear? is a fabulous first game for little ones. Take turns hiding and finding Bear under the nesting boxes—Where's Bear? is 5 games in one.

Where's Bear? The Hide and Find Stacking Block Game ($22.95)—Buy Here!

LEGO duplo Town Dream Playground

duplo

Every kiddo loves a building set, and the Town Dream Playground has everything they need to stretch their imaginations.

LEGO duplo Town Dream Playground ($49.95)—Buy Here!

Kids Mini Soccer Goal Set

Franklin

This set can be used inside or out and has all the gear they need to practice their shots.

Kids Mini Soccer Goal Set ($24.99)—Buy Here!

Musical Instruments Sound Puzzle

Melissa & Doug

When the pieces are correctly placed, they make instrumental sounds that are super realistic.

Musical Instruments Sound Puzzle ($11.75)—Buy Here!

Magnetic Car Loader Wooden Toy Set

Melissa & Doug

Includes 4 cars and 1 semi-trailer truck with magnetic crane.

Magnetic Car Loader Wooden Toy Set ($15.99)—Buy Here!

'Trashy Town' Board Book

Amazon

With rhythmic, repeatable refrain, this book about Mr. Gilly and his garbage truck will be a fast favorite.

Trashy Town Board Book ($7.99)—Buy Here!

Cheese & Charcuterie Board

Plan Toys

Get them started on a love of charcuterie with this darling set from Plan Toys.

Cheese & Charcuterie Board ($40.00)—Buy Here!

Toddler Musical Instruments

Amazon

Start their love of music early with this big assortment of instruments designed for little musicians.

Toddler Musical Instruments ($22.99)—Buy Here!

 

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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33 Awesome Stocking Stuffers for Kids

by Kate Loweth

From handheld pinball games to tiny tattoos to crayons you can wear on your fingers, these stocking stuffer ideas for kids may be the biggest hit on Christmas morning.

This year, fight the urge to wait until the last minute to shop for the smaller gifts on your list. To help, we’ve carefully curated a list of the best stocking stuffer ideas for kids. This treasure trove of doodads, trinkets, and mini-gifts is so good that this year’s stocking stuffers for kids may just upstage the fancy-wrapped presents under the tree. From brain busters to keep your crew engaged through the holiday break to sweet treats, this list proves what everybody already knows—tiny stuff is cool! Also, don’t miss our gift guides for kids of all ages, like the hard-to-buy-for-tweens, energetic preschoolers, and grade school kids. Ho, ho, ho!

Handheld Wooden Pinball Machine

Little ones who need to keep their hands busy will love this too-cute pocket-sized pinball machine. 

Handheld Wooden Pinball Machine ($13)—Buy Here!

Games on the Go!

Games on the Go stocking stuffer

This fun set includes a ton of games like Mini-Snap, Rhyme Time, and Name That Tune that are perfect for your next road trip or flight to visit the grandparents. 

Games on the Go! ($7)—Buy Here!

Get Lost Camping Survival Kit

camping survival kit stocking stuffer for kids

Got a little adventurer on your list? This kit comes with a baseplate field compass, a collapsible flatware set, a flint striker, and a compact travel memo book. 

Get Lost Camping Survival Kit ($35)—Buy Here!

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese Gummies

macaroni and cheese gummies stocking stuffer for kids

This stocking stuffer for kids is certain to get some laughs on Christmas morning. Don't worry, they are fruit flavored!

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese Gummies ($21)—Buy Here!

OOLY Art Stocking Stuffer Kit

Your little crafter will go bonkers for this kit that's full of scented gel pens, temporary tattoos, adorable erasers, and so much more. 

OOLY Art Stocking Stuffer Kit ($48)—Buy Here!

Trolls Band Together Mineez 2-Pack

trolls band together mineez stocking stuffer for kids

These blind bags are super fun to open and you have over 100 trolls to collect. 

Trolls Band Together Mineez 2-Pack ($5)—Buy Here!

BonBon's Swedish Fish

swedish fish stocking stuffer

Your favorite candy just got an upgrade! These little swimmers have natural colors and come in sweet and sour flavors or a variety pack if you can't decide. 

BonBon's Swedish Fish ($8)—Buy Here!

Fizz & Sparkle Sensory Play Potions

Uncommon Goods has the best stuff and this sensory play kit is top of our list. Glitter, bubbles, and positive affirmations make it a winner. 

Fizz & Sparkle Sensory Play Potions ($15)—Buy Here!

YuMe Toys Jujutsu Kaizen Blind Bags

YuMe Toys Jujutsu Kaizen Blind Bags stocking suffer

Got an anime or manga fan on your list? These fun blind bags come with an origami tutorial along with one of 8 figures to collect—a perfect stocking stuffer idea for kids.

YuMe Toys Jujutsu Kaizen Blind Bags ($27)—Buy Here!

Overrated vs Underrated Social Game

Overrated vs Underrated game stocking stuffer

It’s time to judge your friends’ taste on 300 different things, from classic rock bands to avocado toast.

Overrated vs Underrated Social Game ($15)—Buy Here!

Emergency Confetti Celebration Kit

There's always a need to have some confetti on hand. You'll get two confetti poppers with biodegradable confetti perfect for any celebration. 

Emergency Confetti Celebration Kit ($20)—Buy Here!

LEGO Marvel Minifigures

lego marvel minifigures stocking stuffer for kids

With 12 characters to collect, you might just want to pick up a few of these blind bag toys.

LEGO Marvel Minifigures ($5)—Buy Here!

Lucky Tickets for Kids

Lucky Tickets for Kids stocking stuffer

The twelve shining tickets inside this booklet are redeemable for fun surprises like dessert for breakfast or an escape from chores for a day. A perfect stocking stuffer for kids. 

Lucky Tickets for Kids ($10)—Buy Here!

Ghostbusters: Mini Ghost Trap

Kids can search for things that go bump in the night with this replica ghost trap with lights and sounds. 

Ghostbusters: Mini Ghost Trap ($12)—Buy Here!

Heroes of Goo Jit Zu

Heroes of Goo Jit Zu stocking stuffer

Choose your favorite character from the Deep Goo Sea and see how they can stretch up to three times their size!

Heroes of Goo Jit Zu ($12)—Buy Here!

Hot Wheels Barbie Corvette

Hot Wheels Barbie Corvette stocking stuffer

Set off on your own Barbie adventure with this replica car just like the one from the movie. 

Hot Wheels Barbie Corvette ($8)—Buy Here!

Tattly Tiny Funner Tattoo Tin

Tattly Tiny Funner Tattoo Tin stocking stuffer

Your little one will be too cool for school with these cute mini tattoos. 

Tattly Tiny Funner Tattoo Tin ($15)—Buy Here!

Crayola Spa-Ghetti Soap

This tea tree-scented soap that looks like pasta makes bathtime fun. 

Crayola Spa-Ghetti Soap ($6)—Buy Here!

Plus-Plus Axolotl

Plus-Plus Axolotl stocking stuffer

Assemble this adorable amphibian and you'll see that he glows in the dark! 

Plus-Plus Axolotl ($8)—Buy Here!

Baby BLU 360° Blue & Red Light Toothbrush

Go Smile

We don't know about you, but we grew up with toothbrushes in our stockings. For kiddos 3-8, this is a total upgrade. Available in several characters, it's fun to use and utilizes red light for circulation and blue light to kill germs and lets them brush all their teeth at once.

Baby BLU 360° Blue & Red Light Toothbrush ($48.30)—Buy Here!

Hey Champ Candy Bars

Hey Champ Candy Bars stocking stuffer

This six-pack gets you two of each of the three flavors: pretzel, miso, and coconut. 

Hey Champ Candy Bars ($24)—Buy Here! 

UNO Minecraft

UNO Minecraft stocking stuffer for kids

You'll love this fun take on the classic UNO game with a Minecraft theme. 

UNO Minecraft ($11)—Buy Here!

Lip Smacker Lippy Pal Unicorn

Lip Smacker Lippy Pal Unicorn stocking stuffer

This lippy pal packs away your lip gloss in a cute carrier. 

Lip Smacker Lippy Pal Unicorn($4)—Buy Here!

Heart Ring Crayons

As functional as they are cute, these heart ring crayons will top the list of stocking stuffers they love. 

Heart Ring Crayons ($5)—Buy Here!

Tops Malibu Deluxe Surprise Ball Orange

Unwind colorful crepe paper ribbons and discover vintage-inspired toys, gifts, and keepsakes in this fun orange shape. 

Tops Malibu Deluxe Surprise Ball Orange ($24.50)—Buy Here!

Rotten Gummy Worms

Rotten Gummy Worms stocking stuffer

With 60% less sugar and a 100% compostable bag, these gummy worms are a choice you can feel good about (plus, they're pretty tasty!). 

Rotten Gummy Worms ($29 for 8 bags)—Buy Here!

Cocofloss Happiness Set

Cocofloss Happiness Set stocking stuffer

Kids will get excited to floss when they are given this colorful set with a fruity fragrance. 

Cocofloss Happiness Set ($36)—Buy Here!

Olio e Osso Bright & Light Balms

Olio e Osso Bright & Light Balms stocking stuffers

Kids into beauty will love these balms that do double duty on lips and cheeks with just the right amount of color. 

Olio e Osso Bright & Light Balms ($28)—Buy Here!

Welly Bravery Bandages

Pop this tin in their stocking and they'll love carrying it around to school and after school sports. 

Welly Bravery Bandages ($7)—Buy Here!

Kwik Stix Holiday Edition Paint Pens

Kwik Stix Holiday Edition Paint Pens stocking stuffer

These washable paints dry quickly and don't require a paint brush. 

Kwik Stix Holiday Edition Paint Pens ($16)—Buy Here!

Bizyboo Busy Bags

Bizzyboo Busy Bags stocking stuffer

Can you find all the hidden characters? These busy bags are perfect to bring along when you need a non-messy toy. 

Bizyboo Busy Bags ($13)—Buy Here!

GooToobz Gamers

GooToobz Gamers stocking stuffers

This fun sensory toy looks like a video game but it's full of squishy goo. A stocking stuffer idea they'll love!

GooToobz Gamers ($8)—Buy Here!

Mini Crystal Ball

Mini Crystal Ball stocking stuffers

Wave your hand over this teeny, tiny crystal ball and reveal one of 15 responses to help guide your future. 

Mini Crystal Ball ($11)—Buy Here!

Noshinku Pocket Natural Hand Sanitizer

These refillable sanitizers come with four different scents to choose from. 

Noshinku Pocket Natural Hand Sanitizer ($34 for 4-pack)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

 

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9 Things You Swore You’d Never Do as a New Parent (Then Did)

by Alexandra Frost

From the gross to the terrifying, new parents go above and beyond for their kids in ways they never predicted

Before our babies arrived, we had some sense that parenthood would be a rollercoaster. But there’s quite a bit “they” didn’t tell us would happen. Sure, we expected diapers and spit up and long nights, but what most of us didn’t expect was the gross, comical, and downright bizarre things we’d do for our kids in the name of love. As a mom of almost five kids, I’m both straight embarrassed and mortified, but also strangely proud, of the crazy things I’ve done to keep my kids safe, healthy, and happy.

According to a 2023 Pew Research study, 62% of parents say the job has been at least somewhat harder than expected, and 26% say it has been a lot harder. Mothers had higher rates of thinking it was harder than planned than fathers did. Yet most of us (96%) feel like we are doing a good job or even a very good or excellent job. So here’s to chugging along, making it work, enjoying the tiny, hysterical, sleep-deprived moments, and raising our babies. We’ve become new people along this journey, thanks to the unexpected things we never thought we’d do but would do all over again.

1. Stare in shock that you still look pregnant months after birth.

But, I delivered the baby?! I remember thinking, staring first in the hospital mirror at my empty but still-pregnant-looking stomach. Then months later, I caught myself staring again, and yet again at around six months. Nobody told us just how long it takes for our bump to unbump. And for some, it never does, which, as annoying as it can seem, is okay too.

Related: The Weirdest Permanent Body Changes after Pregnancy

2. Clean a pacifier that fell on the floor with your own mouth.

So your kid is screaming at the mall. At church. At playgroup. And your only paci hits the floor—nipple down, of course, because that’s how it goes. In the absence of a sink, you stare at the baby, debating what nasty disease you are going to get, then say screw it and pop it in your mouth, and back into the baby’s. No? Just me? Well, that’s embarrassing…

3. Store leftovers in your pockets.

Once, I found a half-eaten cheeseburger in my pocket. I’m embarrassed to say I have no idea how long it was there. Hopefully only a few hours. This is because eating a sit-down meal as a new parent is virtually impossible. So, we hover around the counter, shoveling in food when there’s hot food to be found because another tiny, whining bundle of joy comes first. We eat while we are feeding the baby, while we are driving, and pretty much any other time we can. And when there’s no Ziploc to save our food, apparently we make do.

4. Fish a potato (or other insane object) out of the crib.

Why, oh why, was there a raw potato in my crib? Parents of a toddler and a baby might be able to relate. Maybe the toddler thought the baby was hungry? Maybe he thought it was a ball? Not sure I even want to know.

5. Take a bit of time to fall in love with the baby.

Diaper commercials would have us think that birthing a baby is followed immediately by love at first sight, an instant bond, a magical moment that we will remember forever. But research shows about 1 in 5 parents actually don’t feel that immediate bond in the hours after birth, and that’s totally okay. It makes sense—you’re exhausted from an often difficult delivery, you’re learning brand new responsibilities to keep this other human alive, and it’s just not always instant.

Note: if that feeling keeps going, check in with your healthcare provider, as it can also be a sign of postpartum mental health concerns.

6. Change a diaper on a truck tailgate.

Parents find creative places to change their babies, from the floor of an airplane aisle to the bed of a truck. This is partially not our fault—many bathrooms are still poorly equipped to accommodate parents and babies. But it’s also just convenient. It’s kind of hard to take a baby to a park and make it all happen with a bathroom that’s a mile away.

7. Fake sickness because parenthood is just too tiring.

Can’t make it to a party? A girls’ night? An evening work function? Of course, many a mom has blamed the baby—“Oh sorry, the baby’s coming down with something.” Then, it’s off to early bedtime and a hot shower, because momming is just too tiring sometimes. If you feel lame for not going out, sure, you are, and so are all of us. We need a break.

8. Leave home half-dressed.

The new parenting days, which we’ve always referred to as the “fog,” mean that your standards go down—and then down again. Basically, you have none. So, if you’ve headed to the grocery without a bra or gone through the carline at your other kid’s school in your pajamas and slippers, you are us. We are you. And that’s normal.

9. Gone down a terrifying Dr. Google research hole at 4 a.m.

Nothing good happens at 4 a.m., especially on Google. But, we’ve all decided at one time or another that our baby’s rash is rabies or that a spot on his face is definitely terminal cancer. Of course, our go-to pediatrician is used to those early morning MyChart messages, right? Luckily, we are usually just completely sleep-deprived and totally wrong, but it’s one of many things that will keep us up at night because of how much we love our kids.

Related: 11 Things Parents Don’t Need to Stress About (According to Doctors)

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22 Best Holiday Gifts for 1-Year-Olds

by Jessica Payne

These goodies are sure to become instant favorites they’ll use well beyond their first birthday

A pull-along snail, their very own turntable, an activity table with hidden storage, the bounciest unicorn, a beautiful balance bike, and bath toys that keep the water in the bath? These are the holiday gifts for one-year-olds that are sure to delight. And if you’ve got other littles on your list, check out our gifts for 18 to 24 months and 6 to 12 months.

Fisher-Price Mix & Learn DJ Table

The Fisher Price Mix and Learn DJ Table is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

If your babe’s been bopping their head to the beat since they first gained neck control, they’re going to love this music-themed, light-up activity table. As sitters, they can explore the piano, buttons, and toys, and brush up on their shapes and colors; once they can stand at the decks they’ll be dropping a beat while learning Spanish phrases and opposites.

Fisher-Price Mix & Learn DJ Table ($31)—Buy Here!

Plan Toys Pull-Along Snail

Proud new walkers love having a little buddy to follow them around, and this snail is just too cute as it inches along. Kiddos learn about cause and effect while working on their balance and fine motor skills.

Plan Toys Pull-Along Snail ($30)—Buy Here!

Joovy Tricycoo 4.1

Joovy Tricycoo 4.1 is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Tikes can cruise in style for a long time with this solid 4-in-1 tricycle. It starts as a fully harnessed push trike with a parent handle and canopy and eventually evolves into a tricycle that three-year-olds can ride independently.

Joovy Tricycoo 4.1 ($130)—Buy Here!

Manhattan Toy Musical Lili Llama

Manhattan Toy Lili Llama is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

You’ll be amazed by how long toddlers entertain themselves with this musical llama friend. Lili’s got a xylophone, four spinners, a maraca, two gears, a washboard, 2 clacking saddles, and two mallets (conveniently stored in her head), so there’s never a dull moment.

Manhattan Toy Musical Lili Llama ($61)—Buy Here!

Joymor Foam Climbing Blocks

Joymor Foam Climbing Blocks is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Toddlers can get their beans out on these fun foam climbing blocks, exploring tunnels, ramps, and stairs, and parents can rest assured that any spills or messes are easily wiped clean with mild soap and water.

Joymor Foam Climbing Blocks ($236)—Buy Here!

Bouncy Inflatable Animal Jump-Along

Bouncy Inflatable Animal Jump-Along is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Giddy up! Let your little loose on one of these fun and bouncy inflatable animals, available in unicorn, grey bunny, fox, and green triceritops. Each animal comes with a hand pump and a unique birth certificate.

Bouncy Inflatable Animal Jump-Along ($57)—Buy Here!

Haba Fun with Sounds Wooden Discovery Blocks

Haba musical fun with sounds wooden discovery blocks is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Not only can little hands stack these colorful beech wood blocks, but each one is also ripe for acoustic exploration—from rattling and clacking to squeaking and tinkering. Plus, you can toss a few in your bag for on-the-go entertainment.

Haba Fun with Sounds Wooden Discovery Blocks ($49)—Buy Here!

Gund Muttsy Dog Plush

Gund Muttsy Dog Plush is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

For parents of dog-obsessed toddlers, a puppy stuffie is a no-brainer. They’ll instantly fall in love with this super-soft and extremely huggable Gund version.

Gund Muttsy Dog Plush ($27)—Buy Here!

Learning Resources Learn-A-Lot Avocados

Learning Resources Learn-A-Lot Avocados is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

There’s so much to learn from these adorable little avocados. Kids can color match the tops and bottoms, building fine motor skills while they do it, and get to know the different emotions on each fruit’s face.

Learning Resources Learn-A-Lot Avocados ($12.50)—Buy Here!

Anthropologie Frenchie Push Cart Toy

The anthropologie frenchie push cart is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Leave it to Anthro to design the most beautiful push cart of our dreams. As baby toddles, three Frenchie dogs bob up and down and their tails wag around on springs.

Anthropologie Frenchie Push Cart Toy ($70)—Buy Here!

Dragon's First Taco Board Book

Dragon's First Taco board book is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Not only does this bring the hilarious Dragons Love Tacos series to the littlest of readers, but the book itself is also shaped like a taco, which makes it extra fun for little hands to explore. Inside, baby dragons learn how to make a taco. Yum!

Dragon's First Taco Board Book ($7)—Buy Here!

Wonder & Wise Baby Busy Box

Wonder and Wise by Asweets Baby Busy Box is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Aesthetically minded parents will appreciate how this neutral play box fits in with their modern decor; kids will love the gears, puzzle, shape sorter, abacus, and more. From seated tots to two-legged toddlers, there's plenty of room to grow with this one.

Wonder & Wise Baby Busy Box ($149)—Buy Here!

Boon Pipes Building Bath Toy Set

This fun and stylish bathtime set includes five tubes that are shaped differently to be used separately or combined to make a big chain. The best part? The water finally stays inside the tub.

Boon Pipes Building Bath Toy Set ($18)—Buy Here!

SEREED Baby Balance Bike

Sereed Baby Balance Bike is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Perfect for indoor or outdoor play, babies can begin learning how to balance and get the feeling of riding a bike before graduating to a two-wheeled balance bike or training wheels. And since it’s under 4 lbs, mom or dad won’t have to break their backs carrying it home when a ride takes a turn for the worse.

SEREED Baby Balance Bike ($50)—Buy Here!

ALASOU Suction Cup Spinner Toys

ALASOU Suction Cup Spinner Toys is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

These genius suction spinners are the gift that keeps on giving, from the car to the bath to the high chair. They’re also live-savers on airplane rides—just stick them to the windows and let baby have at them! One Amazon reviewer said she puts them on the fridge, oven door, and dishwasher when she’s working in the kitchen and needs to keep her tot occupied.

ALASOU Suction Cup Spinner Toys ($10)—Buy Here!

Coco Village Wooden Activity Table

Coco Village Wooden Activity Table is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

There’s so much to love about this chic activity table, from its beautiful birch frame and soft muted hues to the two worlds for baby to explore: land and sea. The storage bag that’s hidden under the winding abacus is particularly brilliant.

Coco Village Wooden Activity Table ($150)—Buy Here!

Tender Leaf Peacock Colors

This take-along wooden toy introduces tikes to the art of color mixing and gives them a chance to look through each brightly hued acrylic screen to see the world in different shades.

Tender Leaf Peacock Colors ($28)—Buy Here!

Pottery Barn Kids My First Anywhere Chair

This is a timeless staple as far as first-year gifts go—with good reason! The tot-sized chair is a cozy place to read a book or explore a new toy. Pro tip: if you have the space you can size up to the kid version—my six-year-old still sits in his to watch TV.

Pottery Barn Kids My First Anywhere Chair ($129-$169)—Buy Here!

Farm Animals Toy Set

Farm Animals Toy Set is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Toddlers love taking things out and putting them back in and they’re sure to get their fill with this toy, a set of ten brightly colored barns with farm animals inside. Kids learn to color-match the barns and rooves, identify the numbers on each barn, and practice vocabulary like “put in” and “take out.”

Farm Animals Toy Set ($30)—Buy Here!

Fisher-Price Mega Bloks

With 80 blocks that transform into endless creations, this toddler staple lets their imaginations run wild. The chunky blocks are easy for wee hands to put together and pull apart, so maybe they’ll even play on their own for a few minutes.

Fisher-Price Mega Bloks ($16)—Buy Here!

Vilac Iceland Waterfall Ball Toy

Vilac Iceland Waterfall Ball Toy is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Oh la la! This French toy is gorgeous to look at but, most importantly, kids will love watching the adorable little animal balls slide down the snow-capped mountain to ring a dangling bell at the end.

Vilac Iceland Waterfall Ball Toy ($65)—Buy Here!

Djeco Finger Paint Tubes

Djeco finger paint tubes is one of the best holiday gifts for one-year-olds in 2023

Yes, finger painting can get messy, but these brightly colored paints are totally washable and free from harmful chemicals. So throw down some newspaper, drop some colors on the plastic palette, and unleash your little artiste.

Djeco Finger Paint Tubes ($22)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
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12 Brilliant Stroller Costumes We Can’t Get Over

by Jessica Payne

Live vicariously through these crafty parents (and get a little inspiration if you are one!)

Before the days when your kid breaks your brain with three last-minute Halloween costume changes, parents enjoy a simpler time—one where you can dress your baby in any costume you want. And oh the cuteness! Some parents take these looks to the next level by building elaborate stroller costumes that turn their little’s rides into everything from bulldozers to rocket ships, which is particularly convenient if you have a big sibling with more stamina going door to door. While we don’t all have the energy to partake, they’re super fun to look at, so we’ve gathered the best Halloween stroller costumes for your viewing pleasure.

Shopkin

She may be too young to play with her big sis’s Shopkins, but this babe sure looks adorable dressed as one! Her expression may say SOS, but her stroller is pure Halloween genius.

Top Gun

This pilot feels the need…the need for speed! His parents went all out to give their little Maverick a couple of wings to fly.

Skid Steer

How cute (and well-constructed) is this stroller skid steer? We’re floored. And you know this toddler is definitely feeling themself sitting pretty next to a real-life bulldozer.

Buzz Lightyear

To infinity and beyond…or at least around the block. Either way, little Buzz and his glowing rocketship are sure to light up the neighborhood.

Astronaut

Make some space on the sidewalk for NASA’s newest member, Squeal Armstrong. He’s clearly over the moon to be riding in a sweet stroller rocketship.

The Claw

This is a legendary Halloween stroller costume and we are obsessed! Extra points to the sleepy little bebe who took a nap while riding in The Claw.

Bubble Bath

Splish splash! A double stroller transformed into a very bubbly bath thanks to lots of balls, a precious little rubber duckie, and a fluffy purple loofah. The best part? No water all over your bathroom floor.

Paramedic

Is there a doctor in the house? With this mini MD patrolling the ‘hood you’re sure to have a smooth Halloween eve. Her beaming smile is a salve for whatever ails ya.

Jungle Cruise

This family nailed their Jungle Cruise costume. We bet they’re cruising the streets looking for an ancient candy that can heal the world.

Dragon

This little dragon master seems blissfully unaware that he’s quite literally in the belly of the beast. We love how this costume transformed a simple umbrella stroller into something vibrant and exciting.

Ladybug

Another simple yet sweet option for a hot climate, we love this wee ladybug!

Pirate Ship

Arrrrr you coming trick-or-treating? This pirate ship blew our minds! Hope no one has to walk the plank on Halloween night.

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11 Autumn Sensory Play Activities You’ll Fall for

by Gabby Cullen

These DIY sensory activities help babies and toddlers experience the magic of the fall season

Introduce the sounds, smells, and tastes of autumn with easy DIY fall sensory activities using items found around the house. From apple-scented cloud dough to a sweet fall sensory bin, you’ll find lots of ways to play that stimulate the senses and the imagination. Stay close by and supervise young children to avoid choking hazards.

Autumn-Spiced Play Dough with Whole Spices

fall sensory bin with play dough
Mama. Papa. Bubba.

This play dough is a treat for your child's sense of touch and smell, thanks to the addition of autumnal spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Add some cinnamon sticks, anise stars, and other whole spices (but avoid those that may pose choking hazards until your child is older). The spices add texture to the activity and give your child something to push into the dough. This is a fall sensory bin older kids will love to participate in as well. Get the recipe at Mama. Papa. Bubba.

Apple Foam Sensory Bin

Apple foam fall sensory bin is a fun fall sensory activity
Toddler Approved

Squeeze bottles, sponges, tear-free bubble bath solution, and the season's delicious apples are all you need for this fun, foamy fall sensory activity from Toddler Approved. To keep things clean, lay down a towel or vinyl tablecloth first, or head outside if the weather is nice. Keep the apples you use for other autumn activities, or choose plastic apples or pumpkins if you'd rather use your apples for snacking on. 

Boo Bath

Growing a Jeweled Rose

Scare up some bath-time fun for your little boo! Shaving cream makes perfectly puffy ghosts that glide over dark-colored water in this fun activity. Don’t worry about the tub or your tot staying food-colored; it washes away when playtime is over. Get the DIY from Growing a Jeweled Rose.

Fall Sensory Soup

And Next Comes L

The rich colors of fall shine bright in this fall sensory bin. Choose orange or red food coloring for the water and add acrylic leaves and kitchen utensils for your child to play with. Baby will delight in scooping, pouring, and splashing. Find out how to make this from And Next Comes L.

 

Related: The BIGGEST (& Best) List of Fall Crafts, Ever

Slimy Spaghetti

Fall sensory activity using spaghetti
Hands On As We Grow

Slippery spaghetti is fascinating for babies, and an inexpensive toy as well. Add autumn-themed food coloring, a cauldron (a bucket or large cup), and plastic spoons, and watch your little witch or wizard conjure up fun. Jamie at Hands On As We Grow suggests adding a dollop of oil to the noodles to up the slime factor.

Squishy Squashes

a little girl discovering pumpkins, which is a fun fall sensory activity
Shutterstock

Squash, pumpkins and gourds offer your baby a cornucopia of colors, textures and shapes to explore, way before you get to any pumpkin carving. Fill a small bowl with them and top with a towel to let your child discover these autumn treasures. Then cut one open and scoop out some gooey insides for your child to squish, removing any choking hazards like pumpkin seeds.

Apple-Scented Cloud Dough

apple cloud dough is a fun fall sensory activity
Growing a Jeweled Rose

As sweet as mom’s apple pie, this scented fall sensory bin will spice up playtime for babies. The cloud dough is made from a simple recipe of flour, vegetable oil, and apple pie spice, so it’s non-toxic if nibbled. Throw in some apple-shaped foam pieces, scoopers, and muffin tins for more small motor skills. If you don’t have any apple spice handy, Growing a Jeweled Rose recommends cinnamon.

Edible Eyeballs

edible eyeballs are a fun fall sensory activity
Fun at Home with Kids

Squishy, slimy eyeballs are fun to poke and smash on Halloween or any other autumn day. They’re made from gelatin, food coloring, raisins, and cooking oil, so they're edible if baby takes a bite, and they don’t pose a choking hazard. Head to Fun At Home With Kids for instructions on how to make them.

DIY Blackberry Play Dough

Rainy Day Mum

If you're looking for a break from apple and pumpkin-spiced everything, this blackberry playdough is completely non-toxic and has a luscious color and scent, thanks to the inclusion of real blackberries in the dough. Your baby can even help you squish the berries to make it. Rainy Day Mum shares the steps and all the tools you’ll need.

Leafy Adventures

looking at leaves is a fun fall sensory activity for toddlers
iStock

Nature creates its own sensory play activity for us with fallen leaves in stunning autumn colors. Take a walk outside with your child to look at the different colors and shapes, feel the brittle texture, and listen to the crunching under your feet. Bring a bucket to collect some leaves and make a pile for playing in.

 

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