If you don’t know how to translate the gorgeous rooms you see on Instagram and Pinterest to real life, design help is on the way. These nursery design services let you create a picture-perfect room for your little one, often for a fraction of the cost of a traditional design team. They’ll take your style and budget into consideration so you’ll come out with a ready-to-buy nursery.
Havenly
Havenly is a great first stop on your path to decorating a blank slate. Start with the site’s cost calculator, where you can select items to get an idea of the cost of a completed space. For each category, choose if you want the item to be a budget, moderate, or spendy purchase. These estimates are averages, so don’t be alarmed if you choose a budget crib and see a whopping price tag of $400. Havenly works with a number of reasonably priced retailers, like Wayfair and Target, meaning you can ask your designer to choose a crib that’s under $300. Next, choose between the online or in-person design experience. Both include 1:1 collaboration with an expert. Find out more at havenly.com.
Your Favorite Furniture Store
If you need some hand-holding but don’t have the budget to invest in a 3D rendering, check out the in-house design services offered by the mall-staple furniture companies (think West Elm, Pottery Barn Kids, Ballard Design and Restoration Hardware). Most of these services are free and are offered online as well as in-store. Restoration Hardware provides this service free for members (membership costs $100 but includes perks like 25% on full-priced items and 20% off sale items). These companies employ certified designers who will incorporate your existing furniture into a plan that features your brand of choice, so you don’t need to utilize a company that specializes in nurseries. If you’ve picked out the crib, they can do the rest—rugs, curtains, wall color, and more!
Make sure to capture all the sweetest moments of baby in their gorgeous new room—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Control the scroll by following our favorite accounts for nursery decor ideas.
We’ve all been there: We pop online for nursery inspiration and 40 minutes later, we’re still scrolling and feeling more stressed than excited. There’s no question that Instagram is an amazing source of design guidance and creative energy, but it helps to start with a list of truly gifted resources to avoid wasting precious time. So we’ve rounded up 11 accounts that will help inspire the nursery of your dreams and save you time—the greatest resource of all!
A one-stop feed for all things nursery, Project Nursery tops our list of the best feeds to follow for nursery inspiration. They curate a wide range of styles from Southern-inspired to boho farmhouse and everything in between; scroll through the feed and find a beautifully designed nursery for every style and taste. You can even upload your project to their website once you finish to pay it forward and inspire the next home designer.
A go-to resource for all things eclectic and cheerful, Cubby’s feed is filled with not only stunning nursery inspiration but other clever design ideas to help with shared spaces, small spaces, storage, transitioning babies to toddler rooms, and much more.
Sarah and Josh, the parent duo behind Timberwoods Design, aim to provide a loving nod to generations past with their beautiful series of scrips and blocks. Each piece is created by hand, timeless, and loved by children and parents. That’s their primary business, but we’re featuring them because their Instagram feed is a wonderland of precious, peaceful nurseries (and babies!). Take a scroll through and just try not to be inspired to design your little one’s nursery around their beautiful handcrafted art.
WINTER DAISY, a design studio and blog created by Melissa Barling, has a feed that not only inspires but also gives plenty of functional design ideas to help make your baby’s nursery come together in both a beautiful and practical way. Check out her blog for tutorials on everything from designing a kids’ bathroom to creating the perfect art space. WINTER DAISY is a fabulous resource when kids and design intersect.
If you love color and bold design choices and want to incorporate them into your little one’s nursery, look no further than Dubai-based, French native and mother of three Emilie J. Her studio, Stella + the Stars, is known for showing how to use styling and decor to make a big statement on a small budget. So go ahead and swing into this feed. We promise you won’t want to leave.
If you want to work with a company to design your baby’s room, Havenly is a great first stop on your path to decorating a blank slate. You can use it for any room in your home, not just nurseries, and they help with everything from budgeting to sourcing. Havenly works with several reasonably priced retailers, like Wayfair and Target, meaning you can ask your designer to choose a crib that’s under $300. Wondering what mobile would work over the crib or where to find a stylish glider? For $19, you can get hands-on help with smaller details. Check out their Insta-feed for inspiration and to see if you’d like to move on to their website for more info.
You might not think of a wallpaper business as your first online visit for nursery inspiration, but we promise that Livette’s Wallpaper’s Insta account will make you a believer. As they say, nothing spices up a room quite like wallpaper, and their collection of baby nursery designs instantly creates a calm and serene baby room for your little one to grow into. They offer gender-neutral options as well as florals and bolder looks. The best part—all of them are removable! And, even if wallpaper isn’t your thing, check out their feed for other design ideas; it’s brimming with them.
If you want interior design and nursery inspiration plus a healthy dose of laughter and #realtalk, check out Dominy’s feed. The account is filled with playful rooms and beautiful colors, but our favorite reason to visit is Dominy’s hilarious reels. She’s not afraid to have fun with the ups and downs of parenting, and the account is a great reminder that laughing and designing go hand in hand.
Poppyseed Play creates tasteful and functional baby gyms, toys, and mats that your baby will love. They’ve also designed a beautifully curated feed of gorgeous nurseries that are sure to inspire. If you’re looking for soft colors and a serene aesthetic, start scrolling through this account today.
This account is filled with award-winning nursery lookbooks, and the website has tons of resources, such as nursery organization ideas, a nursery design style quiz, and helpful hints for parents with newborns.
Author of Your Perfect Nursery, Naomi Allen Coe founded Little Crown Interiors in 2008, focusing her design studio on nurseries and child spaces after seeing this specialized skill missing from other firms. Unlike other interior designers, she solely focuses on nurseries, which means her feed is filled with all nurseries, all the time. You can also visit the website and sign up for Naomi’s nursery essentials!
Make sure to capture a few snaps of your creative baby space—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Looking to pick out the perfect baby gift? There’s no shortage of adorable items to choose from. But if you’re angling for something upscale that really makes an impact at that baby shower, first birthday, or holiday, these splurgy keepsake baby gifts are ones that mom and her babe will cherish.
Savor Baby Edition Keepsake Box
What parent doesn’t want a better way to keep track of baby’s sweetest memories? Savor’s Baby Edition Keepsake Box is an organizing system that keeps everything protected and easily accessible with the help of nine drawers, eight vertical files for cherished paper artifacts like sonograms, letters, and birth announcements, and 50+ illustrated labels. Parents can keep track of the first four years of their child’s life, from the hospital blanket to baby’s first tooth to that first haircut, along with other treasured items.
Personalized Woodland Nursery Pillow This comfy cotton pillow sprinkles the details of baby’s arrival amid a whimsical mix of plants, mushrooms, and woodland critters like deer, squirrels, and bunnies. If you don’t know all the details of your giftee’s birth (date, weight, length, birthplace, and time of birth), no sweat—those spaces can be filled in with additional illustrations. It’s the perfect addition to storytime in any nursery.
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Padova Bubble Blower
You can practically hear children’s laughter on a summer day upon unboxing this darling silver bubble wand. A wonderful baby shower gift, the design has a signature Elsa Peretti design and can be engraved for personalization.
Butterscotch Blankees Metallic Classic Monogram Stroller Blanket For a gift that baby will use day after day, this super-soft and cozy blanket comes in nearly 30 different colors to match all tastes. Take it from the nursery to the stroller to the car and beyond for constant comfort on all those baby-led adventures. Personalize it with a monogram and send it soon after baby’s arrival.
Vera Wang Wedgwood Infinity Baby Piggy Bank
Baby’s first bank should be precious and timeless, and what’s more timeless than a piggy? This sweet treasury by acclaimed designer Vera Wang fits the bill with its simple yet sculptural silhouette and an infinity detail around the waist. Like all of her creations, the Infinity Baby Piggy Bank is a classic for contemporary tastes.
Artifact Uprising Baby Book | The Story of You From picking baby’s name to favorite books and songs, this baby book prompts parents to write down every important detail. With 100 pages to fill and nearly 50 spots for family photos, it’s a highly interactive photo journal that aptly documents a child’s life to be thumbed through and pored over for years to come. And it fits many family structures, including single parents, adopted children, and same-sex parents.
Michael Aram Bunny Cup with Spoon Set
Handcrafted by American artist Michael Aram, this cup and spoon set calls upon the wonder and innocence of childhood with subtle whimsy and elegance. Made of stainless steel and silver-plated metal, this sweet set will stand the test of time, and, like children themselves, no two are exactly alike because they’re made by hand.
Beadifulbaby Engravable Silver Baby Bangle Bracelet
A gift of jewelry will always be remembered, especially a child’s first bracelet as a permanent record of that unimaginably tiny wrist. This lovely, high-polished sterling silver rhodium bracelet is made in the USA and can be personalized with a little one’s initials or full name. While this piece of jewelry cannot grow with baby, it makes for a darling gift that can be passed down to future generations.
Write to Me | Baby – First Year of You Journal
Inspire any new parent to notice the little things with the gift of this beautiful First Year of You journal. There’s plenty of room for taking note of moments both big and small, with cues to include milestones like first steps, first Christmas and first haircut. The natural linen, gender-neutral design with gold embossing is fitting for just about any family and it’s all made with forest-free paper.
Reed & Barton Jungle Parade Silverplate Photo Frame A classic silver frame gets a colorful upgrade with Reed & Barton’s Jungle Parade. This adorable 4×6 picture holder would look positively sweet in any boy or girl’s nursery, and it can be used to display a family photo from your latest adventures. To up the gift factor, personalize it for an extra $9.95.
—Taylor Clifton, Whitney C. Harris, & Jessica Payne
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.
Your gender-neutral nursery will be anything but boring
Gender-neutral baby gear, clothes, and accessories have become very accessible, and nurseries are no exception. Whether you’re going the neutral route because you’re skipping the ‘gender reveal‘, you want to be able to plan for hand-me-downs for future babies, or just because you like the hues, there are lots of options for a gender-neutral nursery. It can be a bit of a challenge to keep things neutral and cohesive. These decorating options are easy to mix and match, plus, it’s all absolutely adorable. Oh, and boho-loving moms? There are a ton of earthy colors in this collection that you’ll love. You can’t go wrong with these.
Pick bold patterns or muted prints, or pair a little of both for a unique and darling room your babe will be able to grow into. Another major plus to neutral spaces, right? Of course, you’ll want to add baby and family photos, plus their own touches as their personalities start to show. Here are a few of our favorite choices.
Passport 20" Kids Pendant Ceiling Light by Leanne Ford
Crate & Barrel
This fun ceiling light is an adorable addition to any kiddo's room. Who wouldn't want a hot air balloon floating through their space? We know we do.
100% cotton sateen, this illustrated crib sheet from Rookie Humans is like creating a storybook in their nursery. If the moon isn't quite your style, check out their full collection of stunning crib sheets, too.
Aside from being so cool-looking, clear storage helps you find what you're looking for fast and fits into any decor (including your gender-neutral nursery) because, again, clear.
Goodnight Moon 3-Piece Celestial Nursery Crib Bedding Set
Lambs & Ivy
This sweet crib bedding set includes a quilt, fitted crib sheet, and a crib skirt. "You are my sun my moon and all of my stars" is embroidered on the soft moon. That covers every parents' sentiment, doesn't it?
We have a feeling you're going to want blackout curtains in the nursery. Afterall, between being able to darken the whole room on your terms, and keeping the temperature regulated, there's a good chance your little one will sleep better with them.
A super cute decorative nursery sign that's laser cut and engraved from birch and white eucalyptus wood. They're available in 3 different sizes, with 12 different frame finishes to choose from.'
Handmade details, cotton fleece, and yarn combine to create an artisanal feel that's totally gender-neutral, too. Stick with the giraffe, or add the antelope and lion, too.
We're actually very in love with all the clocks from Birch Lane, but Smokey the Owl is an easy fave. Made from baltic birch plywood that's ethically sourced & printed with non-toxic, water-based inks, too.
WallpaperMural.com makes absolutely beautiful wallpaper, and the Ava Neutral design warms up any nursery or kids room. It's comfy, cozy, and has just the right about of whimsy, too. That's right, we said whimsy.
The soft colors with a little extra punch make these prints a great way to add neutral hues to your little one's gender-neutral nursery. (Note: these are a digital download.)
This set of 3 receiving blankets in the 'Forest Theme' palette is not only pretty, it's hard to go wrong with soft and breathable organic cotton and bamboo fabrication. Plus, you can never have enough receiving blankets, right?
This sound machine has 30 looping white noise sounds and 12 nightlight colors, and although it comes in black and white, this wood finish makes it part of the decor.
Babies aren't always terribly interested in stuffed animals until they're a bit older, but we know you already have quite the collection. Store them in style with this macrame storage hammock, featuring a string of LED lights for a soft glow in a gender-neutral nursery.
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.
Make your life easier with these genius products from your favorite Swedish megastore
IKEA is known for its innovative and affordable styles, including adorable new items just for kids. But it’s the classics that parents go to again and again that we really love. From the beloved TROFAST storage to keep all those toys in check and an IKEA changing table for your nursery to versatile items for the inevitable living-room-play-room combo, here are some of the best IKEA products that make lives easier and more stylish at the same time.
DUNDRA Activity Table
Whether they like trains miniatures or Hot Wheels, the classic DUNDRA activity table will work for everyone. There's a large drawer for storing toys or art supplies and the wide top gives kids plenty of room to play.
They're too old for a high chair, but can't quite reach the table in an adult-sized one. That's where the URBAN junior chair comes in handy. It reaches the table so they can be a big kid, and there's a footrest for added support.
Whether it's for arts and crafts, school supplies, or extra kitchen storage, this versatile three-tiered storage cart is any parent’s saving grace. Made of powder-coated steel, it comes in three colors (turquoise, black, and white).
Do you need stylish storage for the playroom? Try the KALLAX. What about a chic upgrade for your entryway? The KALLAX. How about an affordable dining room hutch? Yup, the KALLAX! This storage system does it all and definitely deserves its spot on our list of best IKEA products for families.
No nursery is complete without this IKEA staple: a Scandinavian-modern rocking chair made for those midnight feedings or restless nights. It comes in several color combos, is easy to clean, and has a 10-year warranty.
"I don't need extra storage." Said no parent, ever. One of the best IKEA products of all time, you can use these storage cases for almost anything: clothing, linens, toys, kids' gear, the list goes on! And at this price, we're definitely stocking up.
This box is a collaboration between IKEA and LEGO®, and it's both a kid's and parent's dream storage container. Made with plenty of space to store bricks, the top has the classic LEGO® studs on top, which makes it a perfect place to build, too!
One of the best IKEA products for families, this extendable bed is perfect for transitioning from a toddler bed to a twin. At its minimum, it is just over 49 inches long and a little over 76 inches at its longest. The in-between size keeps it cozy for kids who aren’t quite ready for that giant bed or for bedrooms that are tight on space. (You must buy the slatted bed base and the mattress separately).
One of IKEA’s bestselling products, this little fuzzy rug looks just as good next to a grown-up bed as it does in a kid’s room. It’s the small dash of hygge your home needs. They also have a snugglier version, the ULLERSLEV.
Does your child's room look like a tornado of toys? The TROFAST storage combination with boxes has plenty of room to stash their stuff. The lightweight bins are easy to use, move or store. Use this pick with the Trofast lid to seal playthings in place.
IKEA storage benches come in a variety of styles, from upholstered to hall-tree style, but we love this simple wooden bench with built-in storage. It does double-duty as extra seating and a place to keep homework essentials, something in the age of work-and-school from home becomes invaluable.
Setting up for your child's next sleepover was never this easy! This folding mattress is super simple to use, fits under the coordinating SLÄKT bed, and keeps guests comfy all night long.
Make changing time easier with this set of four racks. Keep everything within arm's reach, and away from baby, with these mini baskets. use the convenient containers to store washcloths, skincare items, diapers, wipes, or anything else you need right now.
Do you have a picky eater? Make mealtime fun with this fruit and veggie-patterned place mat. Not only is this a completely cute home accent, but it can save your table from an oatmeal assault or banana bash. Bonus—the uneven underside keeps this pretty pick in place.
This simple storage solution, comes with casters, making it easy to cart around! Use the FLISAT to keep your tot's toys in check or roll it to the next play-day destination.
This sweet little bookshelf/desk duo is perfect for a toddler's room. They'll be able to see their favorite stories and have space to color or play, and parents will love the added storage at the bottom.
As parents, having furniture that'll last longer than a year or two is key. With the option of switching the twin bed from below to above, this reversible bed is perfect for a toddler as well as a tween.
Now your kiddo can go, on the go. The TOSSIG is perfectly shaped for the pint-sized set, fits easily over the regular-sized seat, and has anti-slip material on the underside.
While it might look very fancy, this stool is the workhorse of the group. It can be used in the kitchen, the bathroom, or in the kids' room. There is anti-slip material on the top and the bottom, so it won't move anywhere and neither will your kids.
Our list of best IKEA products for families wouldn't be complete without the iconic LILLABO wooden train set. Everything your budding engineer needs to set up a track through a town and over rivers is included, and it fits perfectly on the DUNDRA activity table.
Your little one’s style doesn’t have to stop at baby crib sheets.
Dress up your nursery with baby crib sheets that offer a soft place to sleep and a fabulous spot for Instagram photos. There are so many options that don’t have anything to do with ducks or teddy bears. These are crib sheets for trendy babes who already serve up serious style. Read on for organic options, silk sheets that are gentle on hair, and the cutest prints you’ve ever seen.
Primary Crib Sheets
Primary
Beloved kids clothing brand Primary has now come out with bedding in its signature prints and colors. The crib sheet comes in white with rainbow stars, stripes or hearts, plain white, and white with a navy stripe. There's also a coordinating baby quilt ($78) in white with a navy star, rainbow stripe or rainbow heart. White & Rainbow Stars ($23.50)—Buy Here!
Coco Beans Silk Crib Sheets
Say goodbye to tangled hair! These 100% silk sheets from Coco Beans are more gentle on textured and curly hair, preventing the dry, frizzy locks and bald spots that can develop on cotton sheets. Silk is naturally hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin; plus, it's breathable, moisture-wicking and helps regulate temperature. Coco Beans Silk Crib Sheets ($108.00)—Buy Here!
Partner
Solly Baby Crib Sheets
Solly Baby
You love the brand's lightweight and soft, silky baby wraps, and the Solly Baby crib sheets are just as cozy and comfortable. Sized to fit a standard crib mattress, these luxurious sheets are fitted and come in florals, stripes, dots and solid colors. Solly Baby Crib Sheets ($38.00)—Buy Here!
Luvsy Printed Crib Sheets
Luvsy
Fancy up your crib photos with Luvsy's festive crib sheets. Each "scene" transfers baby to a new place—the beach, park, outer space and even surfing big waves. Start your fun photography journey from day one. Luvsy Printed Crib Sheets ($29.99)—Buy Here!
Copper Pearl Premium Knit Fitted Sheet
Copper Pearl
Your baby will feel, and look, downright dreamy on Copper Pearl premium fitted crib sheets. The sheets are made from a lightweight and breathable knit fabric and are designed to snugly and safely fit all standard baby mattresses, with high-quality elastic to keep it in place. Patterns include this sweet peach print, as well as flowers, stripes, checks, hearts, and animals. Copper Pearl Premium Knit Fitted Sheet ($39.95)—Buy Here!
Target's Cloud Island
Affordable and adorable, the Pink Floral fitted crib sheet from Cloud Island is as pretty as a painting for your little one’s nursery. It plays nicely with any pastel- or sherbet-hued decor and can lean traditional or modern all depending upon your style. Made with smooth 100% cotton, this fitted sheet is free from harmful levels of chemical substances. Target's Cloud Island Crib Sheets ($9.99)—Buy Here!
Iviebaby Crib Sheets
Going for a gender-neutral nursery? Check out Iviebaby on Etsy for tons of options to choose from. Another great gift idea for a mama-to-be with a distinct sense of style. Iviebaby Crib Sheets ($95.00)—Buy Here!
Lewis Organic Crib Sheets
Lewis
Not every nursery has to shout “baby!” For a more sophisticated look, turn to Lewis, where you’ll find 100% organic cotton goods with patterns that are more Brooklyn-hip than cutesy. Lewis Organic Crib Sheets ($38.00)—Buy Here!
This warm burnt orange is having a moment right now, and what nursery doesn't need safari animals? These stain- and fade-resistant super-soft sheets come in a two pack (and some other designs, too). Sorrel + Fern Safari Adventure ($29.99)—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.
These are the baby monitors that will help you rest easier
Nanit versus Owlet? Miko versus Cubo? Baby monitors have come such a long way from what our parents had when we were young. They aren’t just essentially one-way radios anymore; these are high-tech gadgets that come in a bunch of choices. There are more baby monitors out there than there are sleepless nights in your future. And with so much already on your mind being the parent of a baby, wading through a million different monitor options, all promising to be the absolute best on the market, isn’t exactly easy. There are so many to choose from, and each one does something just a little bit different. That’s where we come in. We’re here to help you sort through all the best baby monitor details.
We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best monitors on the market. From wearables to AI to the high-tech video monitors, we’ve got you covered. You can do all the comparisons right here (afterall, the Nanit versus Owlet debate is a hot-button topic in the parenting world). So whether you’re up late rocking a newborn, looking to upgrade your existing monitor, or shopping for a baby shower gift, we’ve got it all right here.
Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor
Miku
A contact-free, real-time respiratory baby monitor, the Miku Pro tracks your little one's breathing and sleep without the use of wearables. That means babies can sleep in any clothing, in any position (both within those infant safety guidelines your pediatrician shared with you), and you can still use this monitor as your child gets older. Create customizable alerts to track movement, sleep, sounds, temperature, humidity and more. The monitor can also play white noise and lullabies to help put your little bundle of joy to sleep. Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor ($389.98)—Buy Here!
Nanit Pro Monitor & Complete Monitoring System
Nanit
The Nanit Pro camera (available on its own or in a bundle) tracks baby's sleep metrics, breathing motion, temperature, humidity and even height while saving images on crystal-clear HD video. The complete monitoring system bundle includes the camera, a Breathing Band to monitor baby's breathing motion, and Smart Sheets that tracks physical growth. The camera comes with a wall mount; or you can snag a floor stand. You can also purchase Nanit Pajamas, which monitor baby's breathing motion in real time without wires or sensors and alerts you when your they need you. Nanit Pro Monitor & Complete Monitoring System ($379.00)—Buy Here!
Cubo AI Baby Monitor
Cubo AI
There's a lot of sophisticated technology packed inside this cute, bird-shaped monitor. The Cubo uses face detection technology to alert you if your baby's mouth and nose may be covered, either from rolling over on their tummy or having an item covering their face. Set the danger zone alert to let you know if your baby is scaling their crib, or position it around the house to know when your child is too close to the stairs or other potentially unsafe areas. A text alert pops up on your phone when Cubo detects your child's cry. And the AI is even smart enough to notice smiles and larger movements and automatically take photos of them for your viewing pleasure.
Other features include 1080p HD night vision, a wide-angle (135-degree) viewing area, 18-hour video replay, built-in nightlight, temperature & humidity gauge and 4x digital zoom. Three included stands (crib stand, floor stand, and mobile stand) means the monitor grows with your child. Cubo AI Baby Monitor ($299.00)—Buy Here!
Owlet Cam
Owlet Baby Care
This clever camera rests on a magnetic base so you can position it wherever you like; then use the included cable guard kit to secure cables out of baby's reach. There's a secure, encrypted WiFi connection to keep out hackers, but you and other loved ones can view your child on high-definition 1080p video on your phone. Set the Owlet app in Background Mode and you can hear your baby while you use your phone for other tasks. Owlet Cam ($99.99)—Buy Here!
Oma Sense Baby Breathing Movement Monitor by Levana
Levana
This breathing monitor clips on to baby's clothing to monitor stomach movements. If a lack of movement is detected, the monitor vibrates to stimulate the baby and alerts you to the situation. If there's still no movement, the monitor emits an emergency audio alarm so you can check on your baby. Cordless and battery powered, you can easily pop it in a diaper bag for overnights at grandma's house or longer trips. Oma Sense Baby Breathing Movement Monitor by Levana ($82.99)—Buy Here!
Angelcare 3-in-1 Baby Monitor
Angelcare
A 5-inch touchscreen provides clear night vision of your sleeping babe as well as an easy way to access the unit's settings. The unit in the nursery can be placed on a tabletop or the wall transmits a clear image and displays the room's temperature. The monitor comes with a wireless baby movement sensor pad to monitor baby's movement; the monitor sounds if no movement is detected for 15 seconds. Angelcare 3-in-1 Baby Monitor ($274.99)—Buy Here!
The Lollipop
Lollipop
If you're not into wearable monitors, the Lollipop is a great option. AI technology monitors your babe's breathing and filters out ambient noise like wind to accurately alert you when crying is detected. With 1080p Full HD quality, checking on your baby through the Lollipop live feed on your tablet or smartphone from anywhere you are is no problem. You can even set a border inside the camera view to track movements in your baby’s crib. If anything happens outside the border, you’ll be notified. The Lollipop ($159.99)—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.
Wondering what to draw with chalk? There are tons of creative ways to use this fun outdoor art supply
Sidewalk chalk is the Swiss Army knife of summer, and when the days get longer, there’s no better tool we’d rather have in our pockets. From straightforward to seriously creative, we’ve got an idea that will turn your sidewalk into hours of fun. Here are not only cool things to draw with chalk but also some of our favorite ways to make your mark (and then erase it).
1. Draw a backdrop for a picture. Bonus point for scenes where they’re flying or underwater. Need inspiration? See the amazing chalk creations we found around the globe, here.
2. Make silly silhouettes. Trace each other with chalk. And then fill in the details for a fun self-portrait.
3. DIY your own chalk. It’s easy to make an endless amount of summer’s favorite supply. See our tutorial, here.
4. Your sidewalk’s got game. Make a life-sized game board of their favorite game (Chutes & Ladders, Candy Land, checkers, etc.) and let your little gamers be the game pieces.
5. Let chalk hold court. Draw a makeshift tennis or basketball court, and let them practice their swings and dribbles like Princess Pinky Girl did.
6. Get wet. Hose down the driveway and let them experiment with chalk on a wet surface. They’ll love the new effect.
7. Chalk that’s todye for. Need to freshen up your look? Turn sidewalk chalk into hair chalk in a few easy steps. Find out how at One Creative Housewife.
8. Go 3-D. Tired of a two-dimensional driveway? Turn your sidewalk chalk into foam paint. The Tip Toe Fairy shows you how here!
9. Be city planners for a day. Make a sidewalk chalk town and roadway. Look for inspiration at B-Inspired Mama.
10. Do some trolling. Turn the patches of grass growing through cracks in the driveway into the hair for your own pet trolls. Just add a body and let the fun begin!
11. Make an Olympic-worthy course. Measure out a long jump board, mark each milestone, and start training!
12. Make chalk pops. Make sidewalk chalk on a stick (they look like real treats!), then turn the kids loose to design a masterpiece. See how Project Nursery does it, here.
13. Create your own put-put. Draw a mini golf course and use a hockey puck or rock and a stick to play a round!
14. Decorate the walkway. An ode to the Wizard of Oz’s Yellow Brick Road—only with more color.
15. Make it glow. You can make a batch of your own glow-in-the-dark chalk, like Coffee Cups and Crayons.
The only thing better than getting lost in a book is having your own cozy space devoted to literary escapes. These adorable reading nooks for kids are both simple and stunning. All you need is a corner of your home, some floating shelves, and a bunch of books, and you’ll be on your way to setting up a spot where reading is the focus.
This adorable option from @thunderousdandelion doesn't take up a ton of space in your home. All you need is a corner, a kid-sized chair, some floating shelves to display this week's reads, and a bookshelf for the overflow.
Who doesn't love a bookshelf organized by color? This option from @thesimpleliefofoliver takes it up a notch with rainbow artwork, rainbow sensory toys and rainbow crafts. LOVE!
Instant Reading Nook
It really is as easy as can be with this book nook from KidKraft. Order yours and set it up and you have your own too-cute reading area and bookcase combined!
Julia from Tag & Tibby set out to create a sensory-friendly space for her son, and the result is simply awesome. The little ones can cuddle up in the canopy to read, but can also take plenty of LEGO breaks.
Even if you don’t have much extra space, you can still make a reading nook. All you really need is a corner, a pile of pillows, and a few blankets, like with this sweet space by The Merrythought.
File this one under “dream house”: this daybed setup by House Homemade takes the idea of a reading nook to a whole new level. Flanked by IKEA bookshelves, this is one spot that the whole family would love.
If you've got a cupboard that doesn't do much but collect clutter, get inspired by @pagesofemma's IKEA kids' room idea for turning wasted space into a cozy reading nook using IKEA's Kallax picture shelf units.
We love this bright and beautiful nook by The Effortless Chic. Start off with stacks of pillows on the floor, add a cozy chair, and finish it off with a pretty gallery wall.
Take inspiration from Mama.Papa.Bubba and turn your kiddo’s closet into a reading nook. In this case, they kept clothes hanging in the closet, so you don’t even have to give up all the storage space. Win-win!
You know the old saying: one kid’s closet is another’s a super cool reading nook. While transforming her son’s nursery into a “big boy room,” blogger Elaine also gave his closet a literary makeover. From comfy pillows and art to essential bookshelves, check out how this reading nook was born over at Visual Meringue.
Featured over at Project Nursery, this library-inspired nursery was dreamed up by The Road Forks. Not only does it have a showstopper set of bookshelves, but there’s also a cute closet nook that’s great for book storage and story time.
When creating a home reading nook, it’s always important to consider every angle. That’s what Sunshine on the Inside did, installing gutter shelves that turn a regular corner into a nifty nook.
Ah, the magic of mesh curtains. They offer up a feeling of privacy for little bookworms, but parents can still keep an eye on storytime. If you want to try out this nifty idea for yourself, head on over to Stuff Parents Need for a full tutorial.
Got an empty fireplace in need of a new function? Turn it into a cozy reading space! Take a cue from interior stylist Emily Henson’s blog Life, Unstyled, and round up some fairy lights, cushions, blankets, and books and you’ll have a next-level nook.
Looking for a unique toy store, Portland parents? These independent shops stock the best gifts, no matter what the occasion
For a truly unique toy for your little one, you’ve gotta ditch online shopping and big-box stores and hit the streets. Portland mom-and-pop shops are where the best gifts are. Find that extra-special holiday gift or that perfect birthday present (because there’s always a birthday party around the corner, right?) at one of our favorite toy stores in Portland. Each one offers quality toys and helpful staff so even if you don’t have a gift in mind, they can help out.
What's not to love about a toy store that understands that children's work is all about play. (Hint: that's what SpielWerk means.) You'll find tons of toys that encourage kids to play and develop healthy play habits too at their shop in the Williams District. Well-made toys that encourage open-ended play are front and center, and so is the play space where kids can test out toys and have fun while you browse the aisles. Books, games, puzzles, and even ride-ons are staples here. The next time you need one, this is the place to shop.
Parents have counted on Kids At Heart Toys since the late '80s to find the perfect gift for their kiddos. Here you'll find all the brands you know and love, like LEGO, Playmobil, Plan Toys, Klutz, and more. But you'll also find local brands and other boutique labels you may not be familiar with yet, but will want to know more about.
Merci Milo is another one of those super cute toys stores in Portland that stocks its shelves with handmade and quality toys and accessories. They source everywhere—showcasing everything from local makers and creative parents to global brands. Each toy selected is focused on sustainability and is ethically sourced too so you can trust that what you bring into your home is good for everyone. Parents can find a bit of everything at this toy store, from vintage to trendy and everything in between.
Looking for a toy store in Portland that's totally in the know? Check out the latest from MudPuddles Toys & Books. Stocking everything from pretend play toys to puzzles, games, and stuffies, having fun is at the heart of their inventory. They even stock gifts for tweens and teens that they'll actually like. Stop into one of their two shops today.
Good to Know: MudPuddles also has a shop in Sherwood (16420 S.W. Langer Dr.).
Need "oodles" of inspiration for gifts for your tyke? Take a trip to the Sellwood neighborhood for a shopping experience sure to beat the offerings of your local Target or Fred Meyers. From stuffed animals and plushies to board games and playsets, Oodles of Toys has you covered. They even offer online ordering with curbside pickup. They'll make it convenient for you and give you all the inspiration for the best gifts for your family.
Insider Tip: Oodles' sister store, Queen Bee Soriee, has all the party supplies you need to throw a killer bash.
Thinker Toys has been a figurehead of Multnomah Village since 1994 and there's one reason for it: their toy selection rocks. They are a destination for children and parents alike, offering adult board games like Catan, and child tinkerings like PlayMobile. Head to Thinker Toys to peruse all their entire selection in person, or head online for their options for shopping, curbside pickup and local delivery. Whichever way you decide to get your Thinker Toy gifts this holiday season, it is sure to a magical and exciting experience.
Need a creative spin on movement-based toys? What about a cute, locally made "Slow Down" sign for your front yard when the teens in your neighborhood pass by? How about a toy set that is both thoughtful and stimulating? If only there was a Portland toy shop offering all these awesome gift ideas...oh, wait! Have you heard of family-owned Hammer + Jacks? Located in southeast Portland's Foster-Powell neighborhood, this cute boutique toy store will be sure to make you want to buy gifts for your loved ones and yourself. They offer a carefully curated selection of toys that grow with kids, and local delivery for those times where you know what you want, but you just can't make it out the door.
Insider Tip: While we love the toys here, Hammer + Jack's community REC Room wins big points with local parents. Programming here is all about Reading, Entertainment, and Crafts (get it—REC Room?). Drop in for a story time, author reading, musical events, and more.
Located in the Moreland neighborhood, The Bull & The Bee specializes in gifts for babies and parents. Whether you're shopping for an adorable outfit for you newborn, or you need a teether that's healthy for baby and the planet, this is the place in Portland to shop. And while they offer all kind of amazing and practical products for babes, parents can also count on finding quality wooden toys, creative toys, books, puzzles and more at this kids' shop. We also love their line of locally made products that support Portland in more ways that one.
Everything you need for babies, toddlers, and kids is under one roof at Grasshopper. Toys, books, puzzles, clothes—this is a you name it, they've got it kind of place. Trusted brands that line the shelves like Tender Leaf Toys, Noodoll, and Brio make shopping easy. Their selection of musical instruments, books, and stickers are sure to please everyone (hint: they make great stocking stuffers too). We love that they also carry tons of seasonal products so you can find something truly special, no matter what the occasion.
Although clothing and accessories are the main showstoppers here, Black Wagon Kids also has toys to please your little ones when you're looking for something special. Another cute toy store in Portland, this is the spot to find great puzzles, games, and thoughtfully designed wooden toys that encourage open-ended play for toddlers especially. It's also a great spot to find rain gear to get you through our rainy months.
Wait! Is this store supposed to be for kids or for the people that mother them? Visiting the Yo! Store in northwest Portland, parents will find stuffed animals and aesthetically inclined children's books next to a garment rack of cool jean jackets or ceramic plant pots. It seems like this store really gets it, making the child shopping experience pleasurable for any parent. You'll be outfitted with the hippest bibs and bonnets, stylish nursery lights, sleek earrings, and toys from the brand Kid O.
A staple of a native Portlanders childhood, Finnegan's Toys & Gifts has kept families happily entertained with their wide array of toys since 1977. Although the local shop has given up its iconic corner location, families can still order exciting toys, puzzles, and more from their online store. Think of it like a local Amazon for all things childhood excitement. They offer shipping or pick-up for receiving your purchases. Pick-ups happen at "UnderU4men" during their business hours in downtown Portland.
