Bedtime is probably the one time when all parents can agree the struggle is real. For some reason, kids’ energy levels seem to peak when all you want is for them to GO TO SLEEP already. You may have searched for tricks or tips to help them take it down a notch, at which point you probably discovered the “burrito wrap” move. Okay, great, but what if your kiddo hated swaddling as a baby and still doesn’t like it? Hannah Sylcox, COTA, who went viral for her tips for calming kids at bedtime, recently shared three additional ones worth trying out—no burrito necessary.
For this bedtime activity, you’ll hold your kiddo in your arms while sitting on the ground and rock back and forth. According to Sylcox, this move provides full-body deep-pressure input; Communikids explains this as “providing proprioceptive (muscle/joint awareness) information to the whole body, which has a calming and organizing effect on the central nervous system.” As a bonus, Sylcox says it’s a chance to cuddle with your kiddo, and we’ll take more of that all day, any day.
2. Blanket Swinging
This move provides what Sylcox calls “a balance of calming proprioceptive and vestibular input while avoiding complete enclosure.” What’s vestibular input? Something that stimulates the vestibular system, a network of parts in the inner ear that help our sense of balance and movement. Swinging in a blanket is a particular form of vestibular input known as rhythmic linear input, and has a calming effect on kids dealing with high arousal protocol (a.k.a. acting crazy before bedtime), according to San Diego Occupational Therapy.
3. Rowing and Swaying
Sylcox points out that this movement can “ help your child reset when they are overstimulated, overwhelmed, or [need help to] manage their tantrums.” To try swaying, grab your kiddo’s hands and move back and forth slowly while standing arm’s length apart. Rowing looks similar, except you are sitting cross-legged while holding hands with your toddler.
If you’ve tried these tips and are looking for more bedtime activities, check out our favorite sensory activities to use with kids before bedtime. After all, anything that’ll make the daily process of getting kids ready for Dreamland easier is worth a shot.
The days are warmer, the birds are chirping, and spring is finally here. And while we love seeing all the blooms, bugs, and muddy puddles popping up all over the place, we’re not quite sure we want to invite all those natural elements into our house (especially that rainy day mud). But not to worry, these spring sensory activities for babies and toddlers focus on all the outdoor elements they love without messing up the place.
If you’ve got flowers, you’ve got everything you need for a spring sensory activity. Get a bin, and fill it with water, flowers, leaves, and whatever else you think will be engaging, give your baby or toddler a spoon and a cup and watch them get to work. Of course, if you’ve got a mouthy babe, be sure to watch them at all times.
If you're not up for playing in actual mud, make your own! This spring sensory bin from Mama. Papa. Bubba is safe for kids to sneak a taste of and smells delicious. Why? Because it's made with cocoa powder! Littles can move the trucks around so they make muddy tracks, as well feeling the texture of the mud with their fingers. You can even add small scoopers and measuring cups for new ways to experience the mud. You may want to lay down a towel or plastic tablecloth underneath to help contain the mess.
Pop by any preschool classroom and you’re likely to find kids and parents equally enamored with water beads. Something about their squishy texture just screams “Play with me!” However, because they aren’t edible, sharing them with young children means getting creative. Meri Cherry has the great idea to fill resealable bags with these beads, seal ‘em up with duct tape, and let your little one squish, mush, and roll to their heart’s content (under your supervision, of course).
Nature lovers will be entranced by this eye-catching sensory bag from Hands On As We Grow. Head out to your backyard or local park to gather pretty leaves and flowers, and then craft the suncatcher with your child for a perfect spring sensory activity.
From our friends at Fun at Home with Kids comes this edible (safe for babies and toddlers) spring sensory activity that uses basil seeds instead of the more common water beads. These seeds absorb water, resulting in a squishy, jelly-like consistency, and can be dyed any color you like. From there, your little one can scoop, pour, fill, empty, press, swirl, and more—all without you worrying about a choking hazard. To bring spring alive in this bin, be sure to add fun touches like plastic farm animals, tractor toys, and even fabric flowers to the mix.
If you have plastic Easter eggs, put them to good use with this fun idea from Little Bins for Little Hands Inside each egg, place a balloon filled with items of different textures, such as rice, baking soda, or flour.
We love this cheery sensory bin idea from In the Playroom incorporates straw and little chicks. The littles can practice their counting, hide the chicks in the straw, and feel the different textures.
Little ones who don't mind getting their hands dirty will love searching for insects and bugs in this dirt-filled sensory bin from Learn, Play Imagine. Be sure to use larger plastic bugs (that aren't choking hazards) for your baby.
Does your little one put everything in their mouth? Katie of Happily Ever Mom shows you how to turn regular bread into a rainbow-colored activity for your little one to crunch, smash, and have fun manipulating. Because it's edible, you don't have to worry about baby taking a nibble.
This easy spring sensory activity is best for toddlers since you’ll need dried black beans to create the “soil.” Throw in a few fake plants and flowers and let your kiddo dig to their heart’s content.
Sensory play is critical for toddlers’ and babies’ developing brains, and you’ll enjoy watching as your child discovers new textures and learns about cause and effect, all while having tons of fun. So the next time you’ve got some sensory play on your mind, try these easy DIY ideas you can put together in a jiffy. Many use household items you already have on hand, like baby-safe paint, to stimulate babies’ senses and satisfy their need for exploration. Others may require you to grab a few things the next time you’re out at the store so can create these sensory activities for toddlers and babies when the time comes. Either way, planning sensory play at your house has never been easier.
The family at Mama.Papa.Bubba discovered their little one’s fascination with VELCRO and share lots of creative ways to use it to engage your curious kid. VELCRO can be used on its own, so kids can learn about how it sticks together and comes apart, or with different materials (think shoelaces, stuffed animals, socks) so they can figure out what sticks and what doesn’t. This is a no-mess activity, making it a great choice for days when you just can’t clean up another spill.
On warm days, these sponge bombs are fun for kids of all ages. Your littlest explorer will be fascinated by the shape, color and texture of the sponges, and how they absorb and release water, while older kids can play catch, surprise friends with an unexpected shower, or score baskets. These can also be enjoyed in the bath or in your kitchen (perhaps with cookie sheets or towels to contain the water). Find out how to make them at Inner Child Fun.
And speaking of bubbles... Mama.Papa.Bubba put them together with DUPLO bricks for an easy way to keep kids entertained for a long time. Lay down a towel or plastic tablecloth, and fill a plastic container with blocks, soapy water (use baby wash or dish soap), and a dish brush or sponges. Then watch as your child explores the bricks, splashes the water, plays with the bubbles, and picks up the scrubber to get those bricks clean.
On a warm day, try out this idea from Domestic Mommyhood: painting with colored ice cubes. Using ice trays from your freezer, liquid watercolor, and tap water, make ice cubes and then head outside with some big sheets of white paper and watch kids use them like crayons to make their own masterpieces. Holding onto slippery ice cubes is a great way for little fingers to practice their grip strength, and we love that any mess from this activity is left outside.
Pop by any preschool classroom and you’re likely to find kids and parents equally enamored with water beads. Something about their squishy texture just screams “play with me!” However, because they aren’t edible, sharing them with young children means getting creative. Meri Cherry has the great idea to fill resealable bags with these beads, seal ‘em up with duct tape, and let your little one squish, mush and roll to their heart’s content (under your supervision, of course).
Fill a container of any size and shape with almost any assortment of objects and voila! Instant entertainment for your little one. Little Bins for Little Hands tells you all you need to know to make one (or several bins), using items already in your home. Raid the pantry for beans, rice or cereal; head to the kitchen for measuring cups, spoons and whisks; duck into the yard for flowers, grass, pinecones and rocks; or hit up your closet for bracelets, shoelaces, old keys and buttons.
What’s colorful, slimy and completely fascinating? Cooked spaghetti. Spice it up with a bit of color, throw in some alphabet shapes, and you have an afternoon of sensory play for wandering toes, exploring mouths and bright eyes. It's another great idea from Anna at The Imagination Tree.
Rain sticks take some time and work to create, but this is a musical instrument that will keep kids engaged for a long time. The Imagination Tree shares the instructions, which involve putting nails into a cardboard tube and filling it with small items (like rice, lentils, and barley) to make interesting sounds. Use one item per tube so each will make a different sound, just perfect for an impromptu jam session.
This coffee shop activity from Happy Hooligans combines two of our favorite things: imaginative play and sensory exploration. With just a few ingredients, including sand, water, dish soap and coffee cups, your toddler can set up a play coffee shop and explore mixing ingredients in different proportions and serving your family, all while learning about cause and effect, textures, and the basics of running their own restaurant.
Want to take a quick shower? Let your child entertain themselves with a container of water and some cotton balls. As with most sensory play, simpler is often better when it comes to engaging little minds. Kids can explore how cotton balls absorb water, how the water comes out when you squeeze them, and how dry cotton balls stick together and come apart. This easy, inexpensive idea comes from Fun at Home with Kids.
Also from our friends at Fun at Home with Kids comes this edible, safe-for-little-mouths activity uses basil seeds instead of the more common water beads. These seeds absorb water, resulting in a squishy, jelly-like consistency, and can be dyed any color you like. From there, your little one can scoop, pour, fill, empty, press, swirl, and more, all without you worrying about a choking hazard.
Bubbles! Grab your hand mixer, dish soap, water, and food coloring to make this foamy soap that will entrance your child. Spoon it into a tray or low plastic bowl and add plastic animals or bath toys for even more fun. If you can't play outside, lay down a large towel underneath or put your tray in the bathtub for minimal mess. This good, clean fun doubles as an easy way to clean some kid toys. Get the instructions for this sensory play idea at Little Bins for Little Hands.
Hands On As We Grow has an anthropological spin on the snack-time favorite by suggesting you insert small toys (or beans, rice, or beads) into the Jell-o, let it set, and then let your little one study how objects are suspended inside, and dig into it to see what they can extract. Your child will probably smell the fruity Jell-o, but if they take a nibble, watch closely for any choking hazards. It can get messy, so you might want to lay down a towel or tray or take this project outside or into the tub to minimize clean-up.
The folks at Toddler Approved are onto something with this simple yet brilliant idea to attach ribbons of varying lengths, widths and textures to an old box and letting your little one crawl in and out, feel the ribbons passing over their body, drag the box around, and play peek-a-boo with it. This creation can be left out and re-used or re-purposed, given it extra longevity and entertainment value.
One of our favorite bloggers, Fun at Home with Kids, came up with a fun and super-easy idea for rice play. Why rice? It makes a neat swishy sound and is safer than sand for babies who put everything (and we mean everything!) in their mouths. Just add a tray and some wooden toys and your tot will be occupied for a good chunk of time.
Make a cool "pin" board in a flash. Just grab the hot glue and some kid-friendly scraps you may have lying around the house for an eclectic collection of textures and colors. Check out Laughing Kids Learn for the DIY guide.
Fill a jar with twinkle lights for your child's own personal light show! Watch them roll it, bang on it, even gnaw on the jar. Just make sure that the top is on tightly. Dayna and the gang at Lemon Lime Adventures show you how it’s done.
Amanda Rueter
18. Splish, Splash!
All children love water play. To engage younger kids, you just need to dribble a little water on a cooking sheet, add a couple of balls, and watch baby explore the wet space. Get more on this from the mama at Dirt and Boogers.
Soft and shimmery, light and flaky, this baby-safe cloud dough is made with just two ingredients (whole-grain rice cereal and coconut oil) and is safe for wee ones to get in their hands, hair and even mouths. Head to the Lemon Lime Adventures blog for supermom Dayna's recipe for cloud dough.
Make sure to capture all the messy fun—and share it 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.
As your kid’s budding personality begins to reveal itself, you’re sure to get a kick out of all their quirks and preferences—and you can’t help but notice just how much of their own little person they really are. You might have loved a good impromptu dance party as a child, but your kid may be more content to revel in quiet time, read a picture book, or express themselves with watercolors. Or they’re super active and eager to sprint all over the park—or just about anywhere else you take them (sorry, fellow grocery store shoppers). To get an even better sense of your toddler’s favorite activities, you can look to their unique natal astrology, which offers valuable intel on their personality, perspective, and preferences.
As an astrologer and the author of Raising Baby by the Stars: A New Parent’s Guide to Astrology, I’m passionate about sharing the wisdom of astrology with parents to hopefully make life a little easier (and fun!). So let’s dive in and look at children’s astrology signs to better understand what your kid most likes to do.
Aries (March 21-April 20)
Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and energy, so your little ram is one of the most on-the-go, physically active kids of the zodiac. Sitting still is not their forte, but bounding around and moving at lightning speed absolutely is, so this is a toddler who will not only love but need time outside at a playground or, on a rainy day, an indoor jungle gym. Even if they’re run-down, they may still want to do something fast and exciting, so zip them around your favorite park in a jogging stroller. Since they’re innately competitive and positively gleeful whenever they’re declared #1, competitive games are a must. Do a timed scavenger hunt or see who in the family can do the most jumping jacks in a minute. And because—as much as they may wish you were—you’re not an Energizer Bunny, when you do flip on a show or read them a book, your silly little Aries will love slapstick humor.
Taurus (April 21-May 20)
Born under Taurus, the fixed earth sign, your wee bull is perfectly happy moving through life at a slow and steady pace. For that reason, when in doubt, err on the side of activities that don’t need to be rushed to complete—like slowly chipping away at a longer book or a LEGO building project. Because Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of art and beauty, your toddler has a soft spot for creative endeavors of all kinds—whether that’s making music with kid-size instruments or crafting their favorite animal out of Play-Doh. The bull is also known for being uniquely in touch with all five senses, so sensory activities that allow your tot to engage through sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound are sure to be a winner. Think: heading to the nearest playground for a picnic and discussing all the elements of nature around you, from birds singing to flowers sprouting.
Gemini (May 21-June 21)
Gemini toddlers are among the most social and chatty kids of the zodiac thanks to their ruling planet Mercury, the information-gathering planet that oversees communication, transportation, and technology. The sign of the twins also happens to be associated with the Third House of Communication, so activities that involve other kids are sure to be a hit, whether that’s a group playdate or mommy and me class. Your twins child is also bound to be a bookworm who adores trips to the library or bookstore, especially if they involve storytime. Known to be as adept at listening as they are at sharing their many thoughts, you’ll do well to prioritize opportunities for them to flex their conversation skills, whether that’s by FaceTiming loved ones or just chatting through their routine. Games that incorporate wordplay (like “I Spy”) are also winners for Gemini toddlers. And given that Mercury rules transportation, they’ll love learning about trains, planes, or automobiles.
Your little crab is a heartfelt, intuitive, sentimental sweetheart who, even more than other toddlers, can let loose and have the most fun when they feel securely attached to you and other family members. These traits are owed, in great part, to the fact that Cancer is ruled by the moon, which oversees emotions, intuition, and maternal energy in astrology. So, put on a playlist of your favorite heart-soaring songs (“Let It Go,” anyone?) and encourage your crab cutie to sing along with you. Your little Cancer will also love a leisurely stroll by the nearest body of water (something that’s infinitely therapeutic for a water sign) while strapped to you or holding your hand. Speaking of water, they love playing with bath or pool toys, and as an innately nurturing sign you can tap into their desire to take care of others by playing veterinarian or preparing yummy snacks for their siblings.
Leo (July 22-August 22)
Outgoing, buoyant, confident, and eager to be the center of attention, your little lion owes their exuberance to their ruler, the vitality-bringing sun. They’re also natural-born leaders, so any activity that allows them to run the show (like Follow the Leader) will fire them up. Associated with the Fifth House of Fun and Self-Expression, Leo toddlers love to share what’s in their hearts and on their minds through big, showy creative outlets, like playing dress-up with brightly colored (ideally sparkly!) or otherwise vibrant costumes, putting on a play, or having an impromptu dance party—which you’ll be instructed by your budding star to capture on your phone. While Leo toddlers tend to be fairly extroverted and active, they’re more apt to sit still for books and movies that revolve around being a star or a leader, like Disney’s The Lion Guard. But no matter what they adore the most, as a result of being the fixed fire sign, don’t be surprised if once they’ve pinpointed an activity they love, they’ll want to do it again and again.
Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Born under the mutable earth sign, your maiden is thoughtful, helpful, and super-communicative, and you’ll want to look to their ruling planet Mercury, the messenger planet, for valuable clues on their favorite activities. Associated with the Sixth House of Daily Routine, they’ll love pitching in on any to-do you need to check off your list, whether that’s putting away laundry or feeding the family kitty. They’ll likely also be fans of games that involve organization or sorting. And from the time they’re tiny they’re bound to be intrigued by language, so you can’t miss with some dedicated storytime, ideally reading books that cover Virgoan themes like everyday routines, healthy habits, and nurturing your well-being and the world around you (think: The Curious Garden by Peter Brown). Also be sure to give your Virgo the opportunity to “write” their own books or share their own stories out loud, as their Mercurial influence means they’re natural storytellers.
Libra (September 23-October 22)
Your Libra kid is partnership-oriented, beauty-loving, and peace-seeking as a result of the scales’ ruler, Venus, the planet of relationships, art, and harmony. Associated with the Seventh House of Partnership, they’re most likely to enjoy one-on-one bonding activities with you, another caregiver, or your bestie’s kid (who is bound to be their BFF, too). Scales kids will love trips to an art museum, making up their very own song, or experimenting with new hairstyles or colorful outfits. They’re especially driven to hone their personal style, so they’ll have fun playing with their very own grooming kit or even keeping you company while you do your skincare or hair-styling routine. And although they shine best when they’re part of a pair, they’re also social butterflies at heart, meaning they’ll dive right into a dance or music class and instantly make friends.
Intense, emotionally intelligent, and dynamic, your Scorpio kid owes their innate magnetism and powerful vibe to their modern ruler Pluto, the planet of transformation, and their traditional ruler Mars, the planet of action and energy. And you’ll do well to look to the themes of both of these planets when brainstorming activities for your scorpion tot. For example, Pluto’s all about uncovering the shadow side of life, so your kiddo will be drawn to puzzles or games that involve a mystery they can solve. And given their Mars influence, they’ll enjoy pastimes that allow them to take charge—like picking out a Sunday night dinner or taking on the role of Simon in a game of Simon Says. As a water sign, Scorps also adore time spent at the beach or swimming, which they’re sure to find calming. It also bears noting that Scorpio is associated with the Eighth House of Emotional Bonds, so entertainment that sets the stage for conversations about deep-rooted emotions (like Inside Out) will resonate with your toddler.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
Upbeat, independent, and outspoken, your toddler was born under the mutable fire sign ruled by fortunate Jupiter, the planet of abundance and expansion. To that end, wanderlust-filled Sag’s mantra is “bigger is better,” so you’ll always do well to prioritize activities that broaden your child’s horizon, whether that’s taking them on a walk through a thrilling nature trail, heading to the zoo to learn about animals from all over the globe, catching a train ride to the nearest city to go sightseeing, or actually doing some long-distance traveling with your future aspiring globe-trotter. But on homebody days, you can lean on books, games, and puzzles that allow your Sag’s mind to wander all over the planet (like Busy, Busy World by Richard Scarry). They’ll also be one of the first of the zodiac to enjoy learning a new language. And even in your own neighborhood, take them to the widest play area you can find, as your free-spirited tot will always love running and playing in big open spaces.
Capricorn (December 22-January 21)
Your Capricorn toddler is a driven smarty-pants with a penchant for rules and tradition, thanks to their ruling planet, taskmaster Saturn, which oversees commitment and boundaries. Kids born under the cardinal earth sign like to take the initiative and work step-by-step toward a goal, so you might find they really enjoy using a piggy bank to save up allowance or helping you tend to the family garden or household plants (an activity that also speaks to your little green thumb’s earthiness). Associated with the Tenth House of Career and Public Image, you could be surprised by just how much your toddler acts like a little CEO in training, which is also a sign that they’ll enjoy playing a game of make-believe revolving around being the boss. As an old soul at heart, your Cap toddler will enjoy listening to old-school tunes (you could be surprised just how much they love artists like Stevie Wonder or Ella Fitzgerald) and learning about history—specifically, game-changing leaders from the past.
Aquarius (January 22-February 18)
Your social, humanitarian, highly original toddler, born under the fixed air sign, owes their electrifyingly innovative MO to their modern ruling planet, Uranus, which oversees change, rebellion, and the desire to strike out against convention. In turn, know that your water-bearer kid will always want to march to the beat of their own drum. If all the other kids in the neighborhood are into an activity they saw on Ms. Rachel this week, your Aquarius might want to do anything but that. Instead, they may prefer to make up their own game—or better yet, science experiment or invention project. At the same time, because Aquarius is associated with the Eleventh House of Networking, they’re community-oriented, so they’ll like hanging out at the local pool or playground with a group of playmates or making new friends when you visit friends or family on a road trip. They also adore technology and science due to Uranus being the planet of electricity and innovation, so prioritize activities that make it possible for them to learn about these subjects—and maybe even make a cutting-edge discovery.
Pisces (February 19-March 20)
Your fish toddler, born under the mutable water sign, is deeply emotional, tenderhearted, sensitive, perceptive, empathic, and innately in tune with the mystical aspects of life. This is owed to their modern ruler, Neptune, the planet of spirituality, and the fact that Pisces is associated with the Twelfth House of Spirituality. That said, you’ll want to embrace Neptunian themes when planning activities for your Pisces, like keeping a dream journal, expressing emotions through art (whether that’s coloring or working with you to write a poem), learning about crystals, reading or making up whimsical, fantastical stories, or engaging in mind-body practices like meditation, deep breathing, or kid yoga. Because they’re so compassionate and apt to pick up on all the energy and emotions around them, you may find they enjoy and benefit from activities that teach self-soothing, like spending time in a calming corner or listening to their favorite mellow, soft music.
It’s a day like any other. You’ve been busy running errands or are in the middle of some kind of social gathering when all of a sudden, your kid loses it. We’re talking about an all-out meltdown, a screaming tantrum—the works. Sound familiar? While parents often think this behavior just comes with the territory of having young kids, there are tools you can use to nip it in the bud. Mom and pediatric OT Courtney English recently took to TikTok to share five sensory regulation activities that can help prevent meltdowns and tantrums, perfect for times your kid is just over it and wants to let you know—loudly.
These activities are great for toddlers and young kids who flail about when overstimulated. As the Boston Ability Center explains, “Crashing provides calming and organizing input and helps children understand where their body is in relation to other things.” The same goes for climbing, which provides a space for kids to experiment with not-so-safe behaviors while familiarizing themselves with their immediate surroundings. English recommends using pillows, a futon or old crib mattress, or a sleeping bag stuffed with pillows to create a “crash zone.”
2. Heavy Work Helper
Little tasks do more than distract kids experiencing sensory overload. Instead, English suggests giving kids “heavy work,” so jobs like switching laundry, unloading utensils from the dishwasher, and watering plants with a spray bottle, all of which help to activate the proprioceptive system. This is key for sidestepping an emotional meltdown. As stated in the OT Toolbox, “By working with the proprioceptive system, you can even out disturbances in other sensory systems. You can increase energy levels if you need to, and you can reduce high energy levels to help children reach a calm, comfortable space to interact with the world.”
3. Bubble Mountain
When you give kids an activity that helps with breath work and regulating oral input to the nervous system, it stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which tells our bodies we are safe and that there’s no need for “fight, flight, or freeze” feelings that often come with a meltdown. Blowing bubbles into a bowl or sink allows kids to breathe and focus on something else instead of an impending meltdown. English recommends trying this tool at bedtime if you’ve got a kid sensitive to teeth brushing.
4. Purposeful & Functional Play
Not only does this give kids a chance to have free time, but according to English, it stimulates the vestibular system (which guides eye movements, posture, and equilibrium) and increases focus and attention.
4. Balance Board
No one likes predictability more than a toddler or preschooler who feels like they have no idea what’s coming next or are unsure of their environment. Using a balance board allows them to focus on consistent movement, which focuses their attention on the task at hand.
5. Yoga
When all else fails, hit a downward dog pose and encourage a toddler on the verge of meltdown to join. (We can’t promise how this will go.) Yoga is a grounding and calming activity for everyone, not just kids, and seeing you upside down could lead them to forget about their impending tantrum because it does look a little silly. Here are a few easy poses you can do with your child.
Did you know that 80 percent of the brain develops in the first three years of life? Our kids go from crawling to running, from babbling to speaking, from being a quiet observer to having a full-fledged personality. As moms and entrepreneurs in the world of child development and kids products, we often find ourselves and friends asking how to create an environment at home that supports our kids’ physical and intellectual growth before they start school. What we’ve found through our research and interviews is that as kids travel through growth stages, their world—real or imagined—also shifts. As parents, we can create environments that are developmentally appropriate and that stimulate their emerging milestones. Here are a few baby nursery ideas and toddler updates that will take you through the first three years of life.
0 to 12 Months: Focus on the Floor
Your baby spends most of the first year of her life developing the physical strength to go from lying down to sitting to crawling and walking. She is also developing her spatial awareness and the drive to go after what she wants. The best way to nurture these budding skills is to spend some of your awake time every day on the floor, giving her chances to play on her back and on her tummy. While it’s often taken for granted, we can create a very rich, immersive environment for her down there, starting by getting down there with her.
Start her under a play gym (We love this space-themed play gym), where she develops her vision and learns to reach and bat. Then, add soft, sensory, activity toys—whether balls, rings, rattles, plush activity toys—so she can practice grabbing, pulling, dropping, shaking, and experimenting with sounds. As she gets more mobile, the same toys will motivate her to roll, scoot, pivot, army crawl, and more as she expresses her desire to bring them into her world.
13 to 24 Months: The Experiment Lab
Daria Shevtsova from Pexels
In the second year, that baby becomes a fast-moving and curious toddler! She loves to explore and experiment—making hypotheses about the world, testing them, and repeating the experiment over and over. She is noticing patterns and routines. This is the perfect age to indulge her desire to learn how the world works—how do things turn on and off? How do they move? How do we use words to express what we want?
We love creating an environment that nurtures her growing curiosity, gives her space to experiment, and gives us opportunities to participate in the conversation. Include toys like a shape sorter that teaches her to manipulate and match objects, a car ramp or wooden pull toy that teaches her cause and effect, and of course, toddler books that reinforce her understanding of the routines and people in her world, that she will no doubt ask to read over and over again!
As she gets closer to 24 months, she can also start to experiment with basic games like First Orchard—especially now that she is learning to follow simple commands. Watch as she explores and experiments with different ways to play the game!
25 to 36 Months: Pretend play, Every Day
As she moves through her third year, she becomes an independent, high-energy storyteller. She loves to act like the adults around her, learning that she can play pretend! That block over there? That’s not a block, it’s a phone—let’s call grandma! It’s the perfect time to design her play space around imaginative play and problem-solving—incorporating tools that can set up an infinite number of storylines that develop language, explore emotions, practice and refine motor skills, and practice relationship skills.
She will benefit from your modeling and close observation as you set up simple stories. Some of our favorite tools are ones that can also grow with your child beyond age 3—for example, a wooden play kitchen and play food, building tools like LEGO, Earthtiles, open-ended toys like wooden blocks and shapes, story-enablers like My Family Builders (where the pieces can be mixed and matched to make different types of families) and Maileg, whose little mice and furniture can be grouped into whimsical narratives. Dress-up is another fun tool she can use in her world of fantastic free play.
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Whether you’re looking for highly-trained and screened nanny services or a baby club with dedicated childcare specialists, we’ve found a handful of all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts with something for everyone, including babies and toddlers. Jet off to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Fiji and the ultimate in family relaxation is waiting for you on arrival. Parents can spend their days at the spa, trying out watersports, or just relaxing while knowing that their little ones are being well cared for.
Pack up your family and head to this resort with childcare options from infant to teen and everything in between. Whether you need climate-controlled nurseries or a teen-friendly nightclub with karaoke, Beaches has it all. And if your family vacation crew includes children with special needs, then the all-inclusive Beaches Resort is a fantastic option. The certified nannies complete the rigorous International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) Training and Autism Certification. In addition, the Kids Camps and childcare specialists are proud to offer families with children with autism and other special needs specialized services, engaging activities, and custom dining options so that all families may enjoy a memorable time together.
The all-inclusive Franklyn D. Resort and Spa offers exclusive nanny service when you genuinely need a vacation. Every family has a dedicated vacation nanny upon arrival, and she stays exclusively with your family during your getaway. You’re free to explore daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. while your kids safely enjoy an all-inclusive beachfront vacation filled with fun activities. Your tweens and teens can not only enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, pizza, and jewelry making, but they can also give back in a big way. The Resort offers community outreach programs to support the local economy as it builds back from the pandemic.
Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic
If you don’t know the wonder of Baby Club Med, you are really missing out. Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda offers care for infants from 4-23 months old that you can book in advance. The littlest guests will get to participate in sensory activities, play with musical toys, and get lots of fresh air with walks around the property. Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda also offers Petit Club Med and Mini Club Med for older children where trained early childhood caregivers provide age-appropriate activities.
Just 30 miles from the Cancun International Airport, the Fairmont Mayakoba is the perfect family-friendly Caribbean vacation destination. Whether you’re looking to explore the Great Mayan Reef or pull up a poolside chair, this all-inclusive family resort offers a little bit of everything, including childcare. So while your older kids are off vacationing at the complimentary Kids’ Club or all-day Adventure Camp, your little ones also have a place to play. Stop by the desk during Kids’ Club drop-off to arrange for onsite babysitting service. The Resort’s babysitters are qualified and provide a current police security background screening. This allows parents to explore the 93 lush acres and enjoy activities like yoga in the treetop palapa.
Catch beautiful views of the bay of Isla Mujeres, or curl up for a Pixar family movie night at the all-inclusive Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach. This waterfront resort offers sun, sand, and flexible cancellations. In addition, the Coral Kidz Club offers childcare and tons of fun for children ages 3-12. The fully supervised area has a place for fashion shows, video games, cooking classes, beach games, and much more. Older kids will enjoy water polo, sub-yoga, and a friendly game of pool.
Turn the meal planning over to the chefs from one of this all-inclusive resort’s ten delicious and diverse restaurants. At the same time, you will enjoy numerous fun-filled activities and relax in the spacious and renovated family-friendly suites. Seasdust Family Cancun Resort’s Baby Club offers age-appropriate toys, cribs, and everything else necessary to keep your little ones (18 months to 4 years 11 months) entertained and safe during your vacation. In addition, the resort provides private babysitters for $20 per hour and fun activities such as a baby pool, magic storytime, water gymnastics, and coloring time.
The goal of the Bula Club at the all-inclusive Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is to expand children’s horizons and help them better understand and appreciate the world around them while learning how they can conserve and protect it. In addition, they’ll love the wide-ranging program of fun daily activities while they learn about Fijian culture. Each child aged five and under is assigned a dedicated nanny for their stay, and kids ages 6 to 12 can join the Junior Chef’s Program or get their certificate from the School Under the Sea. The resort’s childcare programs are designed to give your family a fun, safe, educational experience they’ll always remember.
Head to the Dominican Republic to enjoy the gorgeous tropical gardens and the white sand of Bavaro Beach at Meliá Caribe Beach Resort. On the tropical side of the all-inclusive resort complex, the Flinstone Kids Club has three levels for different age groups, with the Baby Rock Club inviting little ones ages four months to 4 years old to enjoy vacation fun. Little ones can participate in fun activities like arts and crafts, fantasy make-up, imaginative games, costumes, music workshops, and even more fun.
Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa, Riviera Maya
A short drive from Playa del Carmen and Tulum, this family-friendly all-inclusive resort is the perfect vacation spot for little travelers. Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa offers childcare for toddlers to teens, and children ages 1 to 4 will love the indoor and outdoor play area supervised by trained childcare specialists. Some resort rooms are a good distance from the beach, but they offer a complimentary shuttle service to take you where you want to go.
The island is nature’s paradise for an all-inclusive family vacation, and the resort’s dedicated playground is the largest in South Asia. It’s the size of six tennis courts. Little ones visiting Soneva Fushi will love the shallow swimming pools, giant pirate ship, and giant musical piano keys built into the floor. Children under the age of 4 are welcome to visit with a parent or dedicated resort babysitter ($25+ per hour). Tweens and teens will enjoy Senova Academy, where they can explore the night sky or search for sunken ships. Also, this family-friendly resort is known for creating unforgettable holiday season memories.
Dinner and baths are over, and it’s time for the kids to head to dreamland. Or is it?! Without fail, at that very moment, they’ll get a second wind, and calming them down enough to fall asleep will seem like an impossible task. It’s almost like they know they’ll be out of commission for at least 10 hours and are determined to get every ounce of bounce out before their heads hit the pillow. While they may have an extra burst of excitement or curiosity, we parents are hanging on by a thread—so how can we make the bedtime transition easier and avoid feeling like we’ve run a marathon every. single. night?
Mom and pediatric occupational therapist Courtney English recently shared a few of her favorite sensory activities that help kids calm down before bed, and they’re simple but effective. Her TikTok video shows what parents can do:
In the video, English explains that self-body rocking allows for linear vestibule input—a form of vestibular stimulation—which is a self-soothing tool that helps focus attention. Science Daily explains: “If the person is agitated and hyperaroused, sensory inhibition can be used to diminish arousal, especially in the evening before bedtime or at other times when the person is restless and agitated.” English demonstrates the moves in her video: Gently squeeze your child close to your body for 10 seconds, five seconds on and five seconds off. Count with your child and stay engaged.
2. Squish their legs.
Move your child’s legs in and out, and shake. Be animated and use silly voices. Similar to what Mental Health Center Kids calls progressive muscle relaxation, this will help kids calm their bodies.
3. Make drumming sounds on the carpet.
This activity allows for repetitive proprioceptive input, which is one of the eight sensory systems and “plays a role in body awareness, self-regulation, coordination, posture, and the ability to focus,” according to Neurodivergent Insights. It also allows for repetitive auditory input, which can help kids deal with auditory overload.
4. Do the Clock Move.
This one is a lot of fun. Turn your child upside down and move them slowly from side to side, like a pendulum. Afterward, English recommends following up with heavy work—activities that require the use of our muscles—things like wall push-ups, rolling a medicine ball down the hall, pulling a wagon, or doing an animal walk (think crab walk or bear crawl) Heavy work “creates resistance input to the muscles and this feedback is ultimately what calms and regulates the sensory system,” per OT Toolbox.
Most of these sensory activities are frequently used by occupational therapists, and we’re all about trying a few the next time we have to wrestle our little monkeys into bed.
These indoor party games will heat up your winter birthday party
June, July, and August babies will be rightly jealous when you break out exciting DIY games that take the chill out of the season. That’s right, we’ve got tons of winter birthday ideas for every age and stage to help make your indoor birthday party memorable.
Winter Birthday Ideas for Toddlers
Simplicity is best with this sweet set, which makes for easy-peasy prep.
Mitten Match A trip to the dollar store might be necessary to play this matching game if you don't have enough extra mittens. Once you’ve assembled enough wooly pairs to outfit party guests, hide one-half of each mitten pair in plain sight around the house. Pass the other half out to little hunters, then let them loose to find their match. The game is over once all the pairs have been reunited. Extra points if the guests keep the matched pair as part of their party loot. Get the details from Tales of a Ranting Ginger.
Hot Snowball This winter variation on Hot Potato starts with a trip to your local craft store. Dress up a Styrofoam ball or puffy white pom-pom with glitter to make a sparkly snowball, circle up the kids, turn on the tunes, and pass the ball around until the music stops. If you’re caught holding the snowball, it’s sideline time for you, baby. Last one left wins!
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Bundle Up, Baby If this game had an inspiration, it would have to be poor Randy in A Christmas Story, bundled tightly in his winter digs. For this game, you’ll need plenty of blustery day clothes—hats, scarves, mittens, earmuffs, snow pants, heavy coats, etc.—if it keeps you warm, use it. Then, gather the tots together and have each one take turns putting on all the winter gear, as fast as they can, while you keep time (or not). Turn this into a big kid game by dividing the kids into two teams that race against each other, as they bundle up a willing teammate.
Ski Ball Jump Turn an everyday play idea designed by Susie at busytoddler.com into a party-ready game for tots when you see just how many balls each party-goer can launch into the waiting basket below. All it takes is a little DIY know-how, a soft landing for the balls, and of course, toddlers ready to show off their counting prowess during this party game.
Snowy Search and Rescue This classic sensory activity seamlessly transitions into a full-on toddler game as kids race to dig hidden objects out of the “snow.” Bury tiny objects like puzzle pieces, Duplo bricks, or seasonal doodads under layers of cotton balls or fake snow (a great idea thanks to I Can Teach My Child) in a baking dish or large container. Then have little seekers dig them out using hands, sand shovels, or even spoons. They’ll be delighted with their finds. You’ll be delighted at how easy this game is to run.
Preschoolers are just coming into their own, which makes gaming with them all the more exciting. A little competition and a few wonderfully wintery twists, and you’ve got the makings for perfect preschool party games!
Allison Sutcliffe
Penguin Relay Consider this relay game the winterized version of an egg spoon race. Divide kids into two teams and put half of each on the end of the playing field and the rest at the other. Kids place a beanbag on top of their feet, papa penguin style. When you say go, each team sends a member shuffling down to the other end, carefully balancing their “egg” on their feet until they reach a teammate on the other side. Transfer the egg to the next player to keep the relay going.
Candy Ball Game It's a win-win when a game doubles as party favors. Hide birthday trinkets in a plastic wrap ball, pass the ball around the circle, and let guests unwind and find the hidden treasures. If you add the dice-rolling element for older kids, it's just as much fun to watch as it is to play.
Winter Guessing Jar Keep the wiggles at bay by putting out a guessing jar. Fill it with snowflake buttons, blue and white LEGO, blue and white M&M’s, or any other snowy day combo you can think up. Then invite guests to guess at some point during the party. The coolest part? The jar and its contents can be given away as a prize.
Snowman Relay This no-snow snowman relay is perfect for an indoor bash. You’ll need two large felt snowmen and stylish felt accessories to match: a carrot nose, colorful buttons, coal-colored eyes, and even a scarf. Hang the snowmen on the wall, and line your guests in two lines next to the accessories. Each player takes a turn putting on an accessory, and the first snowman ready to lead the parade through the town wins! Construction paper is an alternative for felt for this game.
They’re big kids now, so they should play big-kid games. Check out these three games that will keep them laughing and give them a challenge or two.
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Ice Castle Construction The race is on to build the highest ice castle on the block with this Bob the Builder meets Elsa cup stacking game. Little partiers can work in teams on this one, or individual players can go head-to-head. The goal? To stack a tower that outshines your opponent’s in the shortest amount of time. The building materials? Blue Solo cups, of course.
Winter-Themed Charades Who doesn’t love a good game of charades? This no-prep party favorite can easily be tailored to fit a winter party theme. Write out snowy activities like skiing, sledding and snowball fights, then put them in the jar. Break party guests into groups, then have them act out the scenes for their team. Remember, if the guessers can’t quite figure it out, the other team has a chance to steal.
Snowball targets Put a wintery twist on an old-school carnival game with target practice. All it takes is plastic water bottles, a few squirt guns and small Styrofoam craft balls. Balance the balls on top of the water bottles, and line them up in a row or use empty overturned boxes to make a few different levels to change up the difficulty. Then it’s as simple as ready, aim and firing the squirt guns at the precariously balanced balls to see how many each player can get down.
Musical Snowflakes Musical chairs get a winter makeover with this game. Instead of setting up chairs, use paper snowflakes on the ground in a circle for kiddos to stand on. Then, crank the tunes and have the kids walk the line. Whoever is left without a snowflake when the music stops takes a seat; the last kid left standing wins. Rock a twofer on this game by first having tiny guests decorate pre-cut paper snowflakes at a craft table to use in the game.
Snow Shooters These adorable snow shooters from Growing a Jeweled Rose are the perfect inspiration for snowy party games. Arm each player with a snow shooter and mini marshmallows, and then have them aim one by one at a long-distance target. Closest ‘mallow wins the sharpshooter award of the day!
Give grade-schooler kids the chance to flex their muscles and their brains with these games that take speed, concentration, and maybe even a bit of skill.
Allison Sutcliffe
Silly Snowmen We all know grade school kids love to show off their skills, and this game will take a lot of artistic inspiration and concentration to win. It may seem simple at first glance—the kids draw snowmen on the paper plates—but a simple, yet hilarious, twist makes this a party-worthy activity: the kids can’t see what they’re drawing (the plates are on their heads!). Have the kids add all the requisite snowman parts to their masterpiece—three-body balls, a hat, eyes, arms, buttons, and the iconic carrot nose, and then share their creations to choose who wins this creative competition.
Mitten Pictionary You can find Pictionary at any old party, but this is your party, so it needs to be special. Crank up the laughter on a typical Pictionary game by having guests wear mittens (the thicker the better) while they draw their way to a win illustrating winter words like a snowman, polar bear, and penguins on the board. Want to make it more challenging? Have the little artists don ski goggles.
Snowball Stomp This snowball stomp idea from Birthday Party Ideas 4 Kids takes a lot of hot air and a lot of space. Blow up white balloons and tie them around each player's ankle so there’s a distance between them and their snowball. Give the “go!” sign, and give them plenty of space to stomp on each other's snowballs. Super fast and super fun, this is sure to be a popular game.
Topsy Turvey Snowman Cups Your party animals will work up a serious sweat when they divide into two groups and play this cup-turning game. Ahead of time, draw snowman faces on a slew of white solo cups. When they’re ready to play, spread the snowman cups out on the ground so half are upright and half are upside down. Team One’s goal is to make all snowmen upright. Team Two's goal is the opposite; it’s snowman side down for them. Yell Go! and watch the madness unfold. Play for about five minutes before you add up the scores and play again (and again and again!).
Blizzard This adorable game found on Coolest Holiday Parties is a flurry that plays like hockey without hard-hitting checking. Instead of a puck, players use a white balloon, and instead of sticks, they use air to propel the “puck” into the other team’s goal (no hands or feet, please!). Paper plate paddles work well for this game. When the buzzer sounds, the team with the most goals wins!
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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