First birthday gifts can be a little tricky. You want to introduce them to fun new things while also keeping it age-appropriate. Their personality is starting to shine, too, so leaning into their developing interests is a great move, too. What’s a mom to do? Look no further than the stars for guidance on the best gifts for the new toddler in your life.

These are some of the best toddler toys out there, if we do say so ourselves, and we’ve consulted their horoscopes for the best presents to make their big day even better. Plus, we’ve included some bonus zodiac info you might not know about your babe! Keep in mind that these goodies do vary in age recommendations, so consider what you believe your little one is ready for. Now, follow the stars to the best first birthday gifts based on your kiddo’s zodiac sign!

Jump to:
Aries Gifts
Taurus Gifts
Gemini Gifts
Cancer Gifts
Leo Gifts
Virgo Gifts
Libra Gifts
Scorpio Gifts
Sagittarius Gifts
Capricorn Gifts
Aquarius Gifts
Pisces Gifts

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

If you feel like your Aries kiddo is in charge of the whole house, you can thank their natural leadership skills. A fire sign, and the first sign of the zodiac, this little ram has a bold, spicy personality that makes them brave, confident, and generally self-assured. Those are traits many of us, even as adults, struggle with, so having a natural sense of self-confidence is incredible. While they really aren’t arrogant, their security in themselves makes them driven and ambitious. They’re competitive and determined, energetic and a little impulsive.

aries text and illustration

Your Aries babe is dynamic and majorly ready for adventure at any time. Honesty will be a major value they develop, and along with their strong leadership skills comes the ability to bring others together and build community. It’s likely they’ll want the whole family to participate in game nights (of their choosing, of course), and although their fire sign nature can lead to some hot-headedness (we’re sure you’ve noticed) and cutting words, these dynamic and energetic kiddos are reliable, magnetic, and never dull.

My First Pinball Activity Table

toy pinball game table for toddlers
Little Tikes

A toddler-ready pinball activity table is the perfect way to celebrate your energetic and fun-loving Aries baby. Sounds, numbers, balls, and more make this retro-themed toy a big win!

My First Pinball Activity Table ($44.97)—Buy Here!

Play Set with Foam Climbing Blocks & Ball Pit

two toddlers playing in at-home ball pit and climbing toy
Auksay

Aries toddlers have all the energy to climb, crawl, and jump full throttle into whatever they're doing. This soft foam climbing set gives them the space and freedom to explore and feed their adventurous natures.

Play Set with Foam Climbing Blocks & Ball Pit ($169.99)—Buy Here!

Jellycat Amuseabean Ram

stuffed ram
Jellycat

Celebrate their ability to push through obstacles, approach challenges head-on, and blaze their own fiery trail with this adorable Aries-inspired plush ram by Jellycat!

Jellycat Amuseabean Ram ($20.00)—Buy Here!

Taurus April 20 – May 20

taurus decorative image

Even at 12 months old, your Taurus kiddo is highly intuitive. There’s a good chance you’ve noticed them exploring the world using all 5 of their senses, even more than the average toddler. These bull-y babes are notorious for being exceptionally sensitive to the people and environment around them and are likely to surprise you with their ability to ‘read’ situations and people from a young age. Your Taurus will also be right about their sense of things more often than not, so when they stubbornly (they’re the bull, of course) insist they get a ‘vibe’ about something, it’ll definitely be worth taking seriously.

taurus text and illustration

Tapping into their intuitive abilities gives them a strong sense of favoritism. They’ll use each one of their senses to quickly pick out their favorite foods, movies, places, and people that suit them best. Two of their faves? Sunshine and fresh air. This Earth sign is definitely solar-powered. They’re also deeply grounded and solid, so reconnecting with nature and getting their hands dirty is always a good idea when they’re having a particularly bull-headed moment.

Bio Sand & Garden Kit

4 piece plastic toddler gardening set
Danrie

'Grounding' really is the name of the game when it comes to your Taurus, so this gardening set is ideal for the sandbox and their own patch of the garden. It'll be their happy place.

Bio Sand & Garden Kit ($35.00)—Buy Here!

Biophilic Playhouse

clear playhouse with grass and glowers painted on it sits on a grey carpet in a classroom
Wayfair

This indoor playhouse brings the natural ground right into your home. Taurus babies will love the little retreat it offers and you'll love that the shatterproof acrylic lets you keep an eye on them (which you'll want to do when they're still young and not independently mobile, especially). It's an investment, but they'll play with it for years!

Biophilic Playhouse ($423.33)—Buy Here!

My Big Book of Nature Sounds

cover of a nature sounds book for kids
Amazon

Toddlers love sounds and pressing buttons, so a press-and-listen book is always a hit. This one is an awesome choice for your Taurus toddler to look through (while sitting in the playhouse, maybe?).

My Big Book of Nature Sounds ($17.99)—Buy Here!

Gemini May 21 – June 20

gemini illustrated text and constellation

Gemini babies are born with exceptional communication skills, so if you have a serious babbler on your hands, it’s not necessarily just for the sake of hearing their own voice. This sign loves interaction and storytelling (which also gives them a little bit of a tendency to embellish their tales, so gently calling them out on those little white lies from a young age is a good idea). Geminis are known for their unpredictable personalities, thanks to the dueling twins as their ruler. That’s not a bad thing, though. They’re so fun and, despite sometimes running hot and cold, they’re actually really adaptable and curious.

gemini text and constellation

Geminis are a social bunch. They have an excellent sense of humor, and a lot of that can be attributed to their exceptional intellect. They’re in the company of JFK, Walt Whitman, and Natalie Portman, and their intelligence can approach or reach genius level. Technology, gadgets, coding tools and toys are going to top their lists of interests. Your Gemini is likely an insatiably curious kiddo who can multitask like a master. Fostering their hunger for knowledge and natural engagement will be a parenting win for these little ones.

Customized Name Puzzle & Busy Board

three customized name puzzles
Lovery Toys

Brilliant baby Geminis are great at puzzles, and not only is this one really cute; it also includes their names, so don't be surprised if they pick up how to spell it incredibly fast. The multitasking Gems will appreciate the busy b

Customized Name Puzzle ($49.99+)—Buy Here!

60pc Montessori Play Kit

set of Montessori toys for toddlers
WOODMAM

This one should come as no surprise to moms of Geminis. A 60-piece Montessori play kit that covers your kiddo's love of learning and keeps them from slipping into the boredom zone.

60pc Montessori Play Kit ($51.99)—Buy Here!

Smart Toddler Box

smart toddler box
TOYVENTIVE

The Smart Toddler Box is exactly what it says it is: 4 educational books, 2 sets of flashcards, a double-sided puzzle, and 2 shape-and-color matching boards.

Smart Toddler Box ($24.99)—Buy Here!

Cancer June 21-July 22

cancer zodiac illustration

Ah, your emotional little crab. They’re ruled by the moon and, just like their lunar influence, go through phases frequently. And while it’s true that Cancers are ultra-sensitive, they really are pretty darn easygoing and easy to please. Even when they are having a crabby moment, they’re very unlikely to lash out physically or act out. These crabby kiddos are empathetic, compassionate, and deeply nurturing. They notice everything and forget absolutely nothing.

small cancer zodiac symbol and text

When a Cancer child gets into one of their sullen moods, and they will, it’s a great time to break out an arts and crafts project so they can express their emotions. The good news? They do get over their cranky hermit moods pretty quickly. More often than not, you’ll get a ton of cuddle time thanks to their nurturing and family-oriented nature. Cancers are true sweethearts that love to be at home, be close, and thrive on gentle parenting approaches (they aren’t usually apt to take advantage of people), and will always glow under approval from those they love.

Melissa & Doug Baby Giraffe

plush baby giraffe toy with pretend baby bottle and diaper
Melissa & Doug

Encourage your Cancer baby's nurturing side with this sweet baby giraffe, complete with a bottle, pacifier, and cloth diaper. They'll love taking care of this little one!

Melissa & Doug Baby Giraffe ($24.99)—Buy Here!

My First Painting Petit Barbouille Mess-Free Paint Set

a child's paint kit with 4 painted animals as examples
DJECO

This set comes with 4 laminated painting cards, so they can use the included washable non-toxic paints to create their masterpiece, and you can rinse and reuse them.

My First Painting Petit Barbouille Mess-Free Paint Set ($33.16)—Buy Here!

My Family Builders Blocks

set of family building blocks
My Family Builders

A Cancer's love of family is unmatched, so they'll love getting to build diverse and inclusive families with this beautiful 48-piece set. 

My Family Builders Blocks ($78.99)—Buy Here!

Leo July 23 – August 22

Loyal and affectionate, your Leo baby truly lives up to their lion ruler. It’s next to impossible to find a more dedicated leader, and no one will mind when they’re the first to stand up and take charge. Why? Because they don’t just enjoy leading; they excel at it. Making decisions is their forte, and that’s a trait you can capitalize on as a parent (“Would you rather where the blue shirt or the pink dress?”, etc.). They’re energetic, too, so anything that lets them move their body is a solid choice. This fire sign is a jungle gym boss. Try to stick with a regular bedtime, mom. Sleeping is not one of their talents. FOMO is strong with them.

You’ve probably noticed that ‘Drama’ is your lion cub’s middle name. Everything is big, bigger, biggest with a Leo baby. From the biggest smile in the room to the most epic tantrum in the least convenient moment, the lion roars with their whole chest. Sass and wit come easily to them, and they seek the spotlight at all times. Give them space to express themselves, to perform made-up plays and songs, and respect the importance they place on honesty above all, and you’ll be on the receiving end of their purr more often than their bite.

Toddler Dress-Up Trunk

set of toddler dress up clothes
Lakeshore Learning

A performer needs a wardrobe, and this toddler-friendly dress-up trunk is a costume-loving Leo's dream.

Toddler Dress-Up Trunk ($129.00)—Buy Here!

Fisher-Price Wake up & Learn Coffee Mug

toddler pretend coffee tumbler
Fisher-Price

If there's anything your Leo loves, it's emulating you. You're the biggest, most important force in their little lives, and they crave that kind of energy. Does your little one see you sipping out of your tumbler all day? This adorable copy-cat mug is ideal for them.

Fisher-Price Wake up & Learn Coffee Mug ($18.99)—Buy Here!

Toy Piano & Mic Set

black toy piano for toddlers
nicknack

Are you raising more of a rockstar than a movie star? Let them get their groove on with this piano featuring 24 keys, 8 percussion instruments, 4 musical instruments, 22 demo songs, volume control, play & record, karaoke, LED, and external MP3. 

Toy Piano & Mic Set ($24.98)—Buy Here!

Virgo August 23 – September 22

Meticulous. There’s no other word that applies more to this earth sign. They’re neat, exacting, and detail-oriented, and you can rely on them to be responsible from an early age. They adore helping, so letting them assist in household chores is a great way to bond with your little one. Highly organized and oh-so-smart, Virgo babes also tend to be extremely analytical. Those traits serve them well often, but it’s likely you’ll notice their innate intelligence often leads them to be exceptionally hard on themselves. It’s a good idea to remember that these shy-leaning kiddos aren’t necessarily seeking attention so much as reassurance.

Virgos are represented by a maiden carrying a shaft of grain, associated with their love of serving and their deep-rooted connection to the earth. Along with their desire to serve others, they’ll strive for perfection, no matter what. This can manifest in struggling with a sense of self-worth, insecurity, and feelings of inferiority. These struggles feel very real for them, so don’t hesitate to build them up without worrying their ego will become too inflated. Allow them to help out, praise and appreciate their hard work, and encourage them to get out of their heads from time to time and use their hearts to express themselves through art projects, writing, and getting a little messy (occasionally).

Learning Resources Farmers Market Sorting Set

set of fruit sorting toys
Target

There's nothing a detail-oriented Virgo loves more than organization, and this sorting set is right up their meticulous alley. 

Learning Resources Farmers Market Sorting Set ($23.39)—Buy Here!

Slumberkins Yak for Self-Acceptance & Positive Self-Talk

stuffed yak toy with board book and affirmation card
Slumberkins

Slumberkins were developed to teach toddlers and kids all about emotional regulation and social tools. Each animal teaches us something different, and Yak will encourage your perfectionist Virgo how to speak kindly to themselves and accept themselves as they are. Virgos are notoriously hard on themselves, so teaching them to ease up from an early age really sets them up for success.

Slumberkins Yak for Self-Acceptance & Positive Self-Talk ($52.00)—Buy Here!

My First Toolbox

wooden toddler toolbox toy set
Maisonette

Mr. or Ms. Fix-It are always in the 'how can I help?' mindset. Fixing and assisting are their jam, so this wooden set of tools will be their go-to.

My First Toolbox ($41.00)—Buy Here!

Libra September 23 – October 22

The most idealistic people you know are likely Libras. As air signs, they float into the realm of borderline naive hopes that everyone will get along at all times and any kind of conflict can be triggering for these balance-craving babies. They’re natural negotiators and peacemakers. They love when everyone around them feels relaxed and at ease and they’ll go above and beyond to make sure of it. This ‘by any means necessary’ attitude towards achieving harmony can lead to people-pleasing and some difficulty confidently stating their opinions (though they certainly have them), especially in a group. Libras are social and are often everyone’s best friend, though they’ll limit their personal close contacts to just a few lucky people.

Your Libra adores beauty, sometimes to a fault. This can come off as shallow and materialistic, but ultimately, feeling surrounded by beauty is their love language. It contributes to their sense of harmony. They also have a strong belief in love and romance, and associate love with beauty of all kinds. They do struggle with making decisions, and are very much go-with-the-flow. They’re more peacemakers than leaders. Your Libra baby is ruled by Venus, so they love affection and can’t hear ‘I love you’ too much. Warm, quick-witted, and charming, their sweet dispositions are usually upset by overwhelm or a sense of injustice for themselves or others. Encourage their love of fairy tales as well as teaching them how to ground themselves when they get a little ‘floaty’ and you’ll keep them balanced and happy.

Foamnasium Bridges

foam 3-piece rainbow bridge climbing toy
Pottery Barn Kids

These soft foam 'bridges' can be used for climbing, lounging, or just adding a dreamy aesthetic to your Libra's space.

Foamnasium Bridges ($279.00)—Buy Here!

Lambs & Ivy Interactive Plush Mushroom House

plush mushroom house toy with small woodland animals
Lambs & Ivy

Soft, sweet, and social (those little woodland creatures are definitely friends), this adorable plush mushroom house will a fave of your Libra.

Lambs & Ivy Interactive Plush Mushroom House ($34.99)—Buy Here!

Spinny Pins Balance Toy

a set of wobbly pins toddle toy
Fat Brain Toys

Each of the five colorful pins features different textures to feel plus a weighted base that wobbles and balances. What harmonious Libra kiddo could resist? 

Spinny Pins Balance Toy ($34.95)—Buy Here!

Scorpio October 23 – November 21

We all know that Scorpios are intense, and we wouldn’t change that for the world. They never do things with only half their heads or hearts, they’re deep, brilliant, and natural researchers. Scorpio babies feel things so deeply, and encouraging them from a young age to express their emotions in a healthy way instead of keeping it all bottled up will serve them well. They do tend to be slightly distrusting in general, so if they take a while to warm up to someone, it’s not lack of manners. Your little scorpion will test you, but that’s their way to making sure that your love is truly unconditional. They’re the ride-or-die sign that values loyalty and remains intensely aware of the people and things around them.

Scorpios get a bad rap of being secretive, but it’s not sneakiness so much as their introverted nature. They process everything internally and love a good mystery. It’s important to let your baby Scorpio know that it’s okay to talk their emotions out with someone they do trust while at the same time setting boundaries so they still feel in control. Your little one’s drive and determination can mask a sense of fear and insecurity that can lead to anxiety, so reassurances and giving them a sense of safety will be really helpful. Scorpios are magical, intuitive, and love with their whole hearts.

Mini Backpack with Safety Harness

toddler backpack with puppy face design
Skip Hop

Ever the explorer, your Scorpio will need a backpack to keep their findings in (and you'll need a way to keep them from wandering off too far!). This toddler backpack also comes in a koala design.

Mini Backpack with Safety Harness ($16.00)—Buy Here!

Light Up Sensory Play Jars

Uncommon Goods

Believe it or not, Scorpio isn't a fire sign. They're actually water signs, which explains their deep emotions and love of all things mysterious. These Sensory Play Jars will calm them down and help them center themselves while they investigate the glitter, lights, and more! There are also filler kits you can buy seperately to customize their jars.

Light Up Sensory Play Jars ($25.00)—Buy Here!

Fat Brain Toys Forest Friends Discovery Tree

toddler girl in a living room playing with a wooden toy treehouse
Fat Brain Toys

Discovery is the name of the game for your Scorpio sweetie. Let them get wrapped up in this activity center that features a ton of early learning and sensory activities.

Fat Brain Toys Forest Friends Discovery Tree ($74.95)—Buy Here!

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21

Sunshine-in-person-form, Sagittarius is a fire sign that’s more warmth than burn. They’re the wild child of the zodiac. They adore nature, the outdoors, adventure, and exploration. Your archer is an animal-lover, so they’ll ask for a pet (if you don’t already have one. If you do, expect them to want to add to the gang!). These babes are open-minded, progressive, and extremely free-spirited. Conformity and routine aren’t strong suits of theirs, and they really struggle with rules, so a great way to keep them from getting too far off track is to explain the logic behind rules so they understand that you don’t intend to stifle them; only to protect them.

These little ones are imaginative and creative and they would really prefer to avoid sitting in one place too long. Sports, walks, and physical play are favorites of this sign. Your Sagittarius will want to run errands with you and will make it an adventure instead of a chore. Take them to the park, to the grocery store, the dry cleaner, and expect them to add some sparkle to the whole afternoon. They’re fascinated with pebbles, sticks, and flowers, so they’re likely to come home with full pockets and random things in the bottom of their backpack. Little Sags can be impulsive and a little reckless, so guiding them without smothering them will help them thrive.

Manhattan Toy Put and Peek Birdhouse

soft birdhouse toddler toy with four small plush birds
Manhattan Toy

Your Sagittarius baby loves animals, so this soft birdhouse will let them take care of these little birdy friends, complete with birdhouse and handle so they can tote them anywhere.

Manhattan Toy Put and Peek Birdhouse ($33.60)—Buy Here!

VTech Smart Shots Sports Center

toddler sports activity center with soccer goal and basketball hoop
VTech

With these super energetic archers, they have energy to burn. This sports activity center will keep them moving and entertained constantly!

VTech Smart Shots Sports Center ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Wooden 4 Elements Stacking Toy

set of earth element wooden stacking toys for toddlers
Etsy

This is such a beautiful set that'll appeal to Sagittarius' sense of wonder, connection to nature, and curiosity. Water-based paints and natural wood make this an awesome option for toddlers.

Wooden 4 Elements Stacking Toy ($133.64)—Buy Here!

Capricorn December 22 – January 19

Your Capricorn baby is a true old soul. They come into the world wise beyond their years, and, similar to Virgos, they’ll strive for perfection. Under their goat ruler, they’ll reach the mountaintop or die trying, in so many words. They have an intensely strong work ethic and will need to be reminded to play, too. Capricorns are highly-productive and ambitious, preferring logic to emotion. Because of this, they give great advice without getting too wrapped up in being overly emotional.

It’s a good idea to keep in mind that these little goats are their own worst critics, so if they do make a mistake, even if discipline is needed, try to also remind them that they’re still lovable, smart, and worthy. They don’t shy away from responsibility, though it does take them some time to warm up to others on a personal level. Encouraging compassion and empathy will be great for them, especially teaching them compassion toward themselves. They won’t typically indulge in dress-up or playing pretend; play needs to have a point for Capricorns. Reward systems really resonate for this sign, too, so chore charts and allowance will be awesome drivers.

LeapFrog My First Learning Tablet

toddler learning tablet
LeapFrog

Not only will they feel mature with this toddler-ready tablet, but they'll also get to learn a ton with lights, colors, and sounds. Available in two colors.

LeapFrog My First Learning Tablet ($19.97)—Buy Here!

Petilou Rainbow Cloud Pop Press and Release Toy

wooden toy cloud for toddlers
Le Toy Van

For these reward-centered kiddos, cause-and-effect toys are fantastic. This springy cloud features five colorful rainbow pop-up rods in three heights for a hands-on learning experience. 

Petilou Rainbow Cloud Pop Press and Release Toy ($26.95)—Buy Here!

Goat Plush Squishy Toy

stuffed billy goat plush toy
Avocatt

Help lead your Capricorn babe into their softer side and celebrate their goat ruler with this adorable goat plushy.

Goat Plush Squishy Toy ($19.99)—Buy Here!

Aquarius January 20 – February 18

Unique and quirky, your Aquarius is so independent and fun, there’s never a dull moment. Individuality is their driving force, and encouraging their self-expression is ideal for raising happy water-bearers. They’re open-minded and a bit rebellious, but as long as you step back and embrace their little quirks and unique likes, their rebellious streak will be tempered. They march to the beat of their own drum, and their creativity knows no bounds.

Interpersonal relationships are paramount for air signs in general, but as the last air sign of the zodiac, Aquarius takes this trait to a whole new level. They’re deeply rooted in teamwork and the ‘greater good’, so they’ll often be involved in projects that connect with community and are the first to jump into anything revolutionary that feeds their humanitarian souls. As humanitarian as their souls are, they don’t do small talk or people-pleasing. They need something much deeper. Aquarius is ruled by Uranus, the planet that governs innovation, technology, and surprising events, and that perfectly represents this visionary babe.

LED Light Table

child playing with a purple light table
Etsy

Don't worry; you can leave the sand for when they're a little older. This LED light table illuminates transparent toys and blocks, plus it changes colors to suit your Aquarius' mood. You can also buy light table toys separately to prevent the Aquarius boredom. 

LED Light Table ($170.29)—Buy Here!

16pc Rainbow Blocks

set of wooden stacking blocks with colorful windows
Kvintes

Bright and a little magical, these blocks aren't just for building; the reflection and prism effect will keep their interest.

16pc Rainbow Blocks ($52.96)—Buy Here!

My First Fingerpaint Kit

set of toddler fingerpaints
Crayola

This fingerpaint kit is created specifically for toddlers to express themselves without mom and dad worrying about an unfixable mess. The paints are washable and the paper is specially coated to prevent seeping through.

My First Fingerpaint Kit ($18.15)—Buy Here!

Pisces February 19 – March 20

The ultimate sensitive sign, those born under Pisces are considered to be darn near magical. They’re said to walk between reality and whatever lies beyond, so if you think your babe is growing into a child who just knows things, you’re probably right. This is a sign that has a high propensity for psychic abilities. As children, they don’t realize that not everyone has this sort of intuitive knowing, but once they do, they may try to bury that part of themselves, or simply retreat into themselves to avoid sensory overload. This can lead to others thinking these fish are a little snobby, when nothing could be further from the truth.

Pisces’ precious personalities are always looking for people and animals who might need help or who they consider vulnerable. They give generously and struggle with boundaries, so it’s your job to guide them into healthy relationship practices. True born artists, Pisces babies will express themselves through works of art that are dreamy and compelling. They love living in their sparkly, whimsical land of imagination, so reminding them when it’s time to focus on being grounded and present will help them out a lot. Pisces toddlers need gentleness and care above all things and a recognition of their extreme sensitivity to avoid hurt feelings. Take care of them with a lot of love and a delicate touch and your guppy is sure to shine.

Warmies Babydoll

plush baby doll for babies and toddlers
Warmies

Warmies are fully microwavable and real lavender-scented that create the ultimate in comfort for adults and kiddos. Letting your Pisces care for a babydoll that also soothes them couldn't be more perfect. If babydolls aren't their preference, Warmies come in a huge assortment of lovable creatures!

Warmies Babydoll ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Big Feelings Nesting Fruit Friends

set of fruit-shaped nesting toys for toddlers
Target

Pisces have no problem connecting with their emotions, but identifying them by name can be a little tricky. These nesting fruit friends help introduce them to understanding and naming their feelings.

Big Feelings Nesting Fruit Friends ($11.89)—Buy Here!

Growing Seeds Tissue Box Toy

set of toy tissue leaves and book
KiwiCo.

Pisces are very hands-on, and this Growing Seeds Tissue Box gives them a sensory experience and a cute book, too.

Growing Seeds Tissue Box Toy ($39.95)—Buy Here!

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If a road trip with your rugrat has you stressed—don’t fear! A smart stash of supplies will keep your little one comfortable and content on your travels. This road trip with baby checklist includes everything from snacks for all parties involved, ways to keep kiddo comfortable in their car seat, and extra supplies like books and new toys to make the trip actually enjoyable.

1. First Aid Kit

Buy a ready-made kit to keep in the car or put together your own with the essentials (adhesive bandages, antiseptic pads, gauze pads, tweezers, cold packs, scissors). Bonus: A box of bandages can keep a toddler busy in a pinch. Simply open up the box and let your little one take out the strips and put them back in, over and over. If that loses its magic, let them peel and stick bandages all over themselves and the car seat.

2. Bags to Hold Dirty Clothes

You may be leaving your house, but you’re not leaving laundry behind, unfortunately. Pack a few plastic bags you can use if there’s a blowout or spit-up situation. Better yet, buy Wash.It.Later’s Soak & Save Bags to give you a place to stash dirty clothes until you can toss them in the wash. These bags are pocket-size, leak-proof and have built-in stain-busting solution inside them.

3. Sun Shade

Who doesn’t get cranky when they’re too hot? That air conditioning doesn’t always reach the back seat. To keep kids cool and block UVA and UVB rays, attach one of these sun shades to your car window.

4. Diaper-Changing Kit

When you’re dealing with a dirty diaper on the road, a good diaper kit is a game-changer. You’ll want one that includes a changing mat, wipes, and diaper sacks that lock in wetness and odor, for when you don’t want your car to smell like…you know. No more digging through bottomless diaper bags looking for changing necessities in a panic! Now your trip just got a whole lot smoother.

5. Extra Baby Blankets

Muslin swaddling blankets are lifesavers on long road trips, and in general. They can keep your baby cozy when it’s nap time, act as a light and sound-reducing cover, mop up messes, and can even be folded into a makeshift diaper in a pinch.

6. New Toys & Old Favorites

Pack your little one’s favorite toys, especially a lovey, and throw in a few newbies, too. Put a cardboard box or plastic bin on the seat next to your child’s car seat and fill it with a mix of easy-to-grab toys, like this Oball Shaker and a drawing board. Small trucks and dolls are always a hit too. To maximize the wow factor and keep kids busy longer, wrap each toy before the trip. For more ideas, check out The Best Baby & Toddler Toys for the Car.

7. Mini Vacuum

Crumbs and toddlers go together like peanut butter and jelly. If all that mess drives you nuts, buy a portable vacuum cleaner with a car-compatible power plug, like this one. You’ll use it (and love it!) for years to come.

8. Extra Outfits—for You & Your Babe

Bring at least two or three changes of clothes for your baby, and keep it easily accessible. Keep a clean shirt nearby for yourself, too, as there’s a good chance you’ll get soaked in spit-up. It’s the law of the road.

9. Board Books

A few board books are perfect road-trip distractions for babies and toddlers. Littler ones love to gnaw on Indestructables, drool-friendly books featuring faves like farm animals and smiling faces. Interactive lift-the-flap books and texture-packed books are made to mesmerize toddlers. For more book ideas, read 25 Board Books Every Baby Needs.

10. Tunes for Days!

Your favorite jams will help put everyone on board in a good mood! No need to resort to the Wiggles; put on any music that makes you happy, and chances are your baby will bop along to the beat too. Just be sure to put together a lullaby-packed playlist for nap time.

11. Munchies

Road trips always induce snack attacks, no matter what age you are! We have some smart travel-friendly snack ideas here.

Make sure to capture all your adventures on the road—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.

Sometimes a little lie is a harmless tool in your parenting arsenal

Parents are lying liars, and any parent who tells you they don’t occasionally lie to their kids is the biggest liar of all. Honesty might be the best policy for fully-formed adults, but the child brain doesn’t always understand reason or boundaries or parental motivation. Children basically have reptile brains; they want. They want books read to them, they want to be played with, they want to go to the park, they want to eat chocolate for breakfast—the list of wants never ends. That’s where little lies come in.

Apparently, there are some arguments that lying to a child can erode their trust in you, but to that, I say, “meh.” Sometimes a little white lie is the difference between arguing with a three-year-old for 14 minutes about why they can’t slide down the slide another 40 times, or actually making it home before you have a full-fledged public meltdown.

1. The park is closing.

When my daughter was a toddler, she loved the park. All kids love the park, but she loved the park. As in, whenever we tried to leave the park, she acted like I was separating her from a recently reunited soul mate she’d never see again. So one day, I overheard a mom at the park telling her child the park was about to close. It was high noon, the park was nowhere near closing. The child said, “Really? Okay.” No fighting, no screaming, no debating the merits of staying on a dense foam tarmac filled with throwaway toddler toys for the rest of the afternoon. Sorry honey, the park is closing!

2. This artwork is amazing!

Your toddler’s artwork isn’t good. It just isn’t. And that’s fine—it’s not supposed to be. But you better believe every time they hand you a sheet of garbage-scribble, you are going to clutch your chest and act as if you’ve just seen sketch renderings of the birth of the Mona Lisa. Some experts say lying to a child about their talents can affect their self-esteem, but this is another piece of advice that I willfully ignored when it came to raising my small children, and they turned out just fine. This artwork is amazing! 

3. This (noisy) toy is broken.

Parents are expected to draw from an endless reserve of patience that simply doesn’t exist. How many times can you hear Elmo sing the ABC song before you want to pull all your hair out? This is a rhetorical question because I know the answer. It’s 17. After you hear Elmo’s little voice say, “Come on kids! Sing with me!” for the seventeenth time, something inside your very being changes. At this point, you have two options: throw Elmo out the window, or tell your toddler that he’s broken and needs to be fixed, then stash him in your closet for a few weeks until you build up the resolve to endure him singing the ABC song once again. Oh, no! Elmo is broken! 

4. Santa/The Tooth Fairy/The Easter Bunny is real.

Some adults believe charging a crystal under a full moon gives it special powers, and then balk at the idea of letting kids believe a giant bunny rabbit leaves them tasty treats in the yard on Easter morning.  It’s okay to let children experience some harmless “magic” while they are still young enough to believe that unbelievable things are true. Because when we allow them to experience the unbelievable as “real,” we are also giving them permission to look for the magic in things when they are adults. BRB, I need to find my crystals. The Easter Bunny is real! 

5. It’s going to rain today.

Same idea as “the park is closing,” but you reserve this for the days you don’t feel like leaving the house. It’s okay to not feel like leaving the house sometimes. Parenting is exhausting; you’ve been to Barnes & Noble story time four times already this month, you’ve been to the park every day this week, and if you just want to relax today and let your toddler entertain themselves without hearing them beg for an hour—that’s okay. Yes, you should establish boundaries with your child and teach them they are not always going to hear the word, “yes.” But sometimes you may want to opt for a little white lie to avoid a struggle. It’s going to rain today! 

6. Kids can’t eat this.

Our kids take everything from us, don’t they? Sometimes you want a little special treat that is only yours. Mine is super expensive, fancy dark chocolate. Whatever yours is, small kids are pretty easy to lie to, as we’ve established above. A simple, “This isn’t for kids!” is shockingly effective. I mean, you wouldn’t give them a sip of your wine, and that’s pretty easy to explain. So think of this as an extension of that. Kids can’t eat this! 

7. Sorry, we’re out of…

But what about those times when your kids are onto you? When they know cookies and ice cream and so many other things you know good parents aren’t letting their kids eat are for kids? Tell them you’re out and don’t give it another thought. Just make sure you’ve tucked that unopened package of Oreos into the back of the pantry before you do. Oh sorry, we’re all out of Oreos!

8. That’s not streaming anymore.

We don’t talk about Bruno, no, no… it was super catchy the first 432 times that you heard it, but something about 433 was the straw that broke the camel’s back. That’s when it’s time to resort to, “Oh, no! Encanto isn’t streaming anymore!” Look very shocked and disappointed when you say it. This only works if your kid can’t navigate around a streaming platform themselves, so hurry up and use it while they’re young. That’s not streaming anymore! 

And for a bonus, the comments in the below post are golden. Who knew so many parents told their kids the ice cream man only plays music when he’s out of ice cream!

The number one rule when traveling with kids is to be prepared. In order to help you out, we’ve rounded up loads of our favorite small travel toys ready to pack into your carry on and bring on board—all affordable, and some for as little as $4. You’ll find toddler toys, picks perfect for bigger kids, and cheap fidget toys, all made for on-the-go fun. Now, put your tray table up and prepare for take off!

 


MindWare

Foil Art Sticker Pack

$8 BUY NOW

These foil art pictures will be a blast to make and a fun memory to hang up when you get home from your travels.


earthgrowncrayons via Etsy

Dinosaur Crayons

$10 BUY NOW

Bring along these dual-purpose dinosaur crayons on your next trip! They can color their next masterpiece and play with the dinos too.


ToyWiz

Polly Pocket Micro Compact Playset

$10 BUY NOW

This Polly Pocket Compact Playset is the perfect compact set to bring along on a flight. Your kiddo won't lose the pieces to this toy!


CharrelleDesign via Etsy

Glow in the Dark Tic Tac Toe Set

$10 BUY NOW

This Glow in the Dark Tic Tac Toe game will entertain for hours! It is such a fun game to play with others, and the glow means they can keep playing even if you have a late night flight.


Target

Lite Brite Mini

$9.99 BUY NOW

Make all sorts of wonderful designs with this Lite Brite Mini! Your little one can use inspiration from their travels for endless designs.


Melissa & Doug

Scratch Art Color Reveal Pad

$7 BUY NOW

This On the Go Scratch Art notebook is a fun way to bring art supplies on a plane. By scratching away at the black-coated pages with a wooden stylus, kids uncover pictures full of sea life. The bright colors and the addition of facts on each page makes it an artsy and educational choice.


Crayola

Globbles

$9 BUY NOW

Think of Crayola's new Globbles as a combination between a sticky hand and a stress ball - but without the icky residue sticky hands leave behind. They'll keep kids busy with squishy, mushy fun. Bonus: you can rinse these fidget toys off, so they'll be clean and ready for the plane ride home.

 


Target

LEGO Super Mario Propeller Collectible

$10 BUY NOW

This toy will entertain your child for hours in an airport. How fun to fly just like a plane!


Mattel

DOS

$6 BUY NOW

This card game will keep your family entertained for hours! DOS is just like UNO, but with some fun twists. DOS will make that long layover fly by.


barnowlkids via Etsy

Handcrafted Wooden Mini Vehicles

$10 BUY NOW

These handcrafted wooden vehicles are an adorable option for the airport. Your kiddo will be seeing so many vehicles around them already, it will make this toy that much more fun.


Educational Insights

Playfoam Squashformers Robots

$10 BUY NOW

Kids can build rad robots with the aid of the two molds that come in the Playfoam Squashformers Robots package. Playfoam is squishy, moldable, and no mess—these little magical foam bits won't stick to clothes or airplane seats. It's an on-the-go creative toy for your mini makers.

 


Barnes & Noble

LEGO Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts Minifigures

$4 BUY NOW

Even Slytherins and Gryffindors agree: LEGO's Harry Potter mini figures are magical. In surprise packs, this limited edition series includes favorite characters like Luna Lovegood, Dobby, and a couple of versions of Harry himself. It's the next best thing to a trip to Honeydukes.


Paper Source

Itty Bitty Rainbow Squish Ball

$7 BUY NOW

Flying can be scary and this dough-y stress ball can help calm down any stressed out kiddos on the flight. It's also super fun!


Melissa & Doug

Reusable Sticker Pad

$7 BUY NOW

This sticker pad is reusable, which means they can create all sorts of fun over and over, no matter how long the flight is!


Plus Plus

Plus Plus Mini Maker Tube Unicorn

$8 BUY NOW

Step-by-step instructions make it easy for airplane travelers to make the featured animal, or they can use the plastic bricks to make unique creations of their own.


Mattel

Blaze and the Monster Machines

$9 BUY NOW

These trucks will keep your kiddo entertained whether they're buckled in their seat or not.


Melissa & Doug

On the Go Color By Number

$9 BUY NOW

Coloring by numbers is a classic and fun way to spend time. Your child will love this and it will be a great activity for quiet time on the plane.


MindWare

Lunar Landing Quick Sticker Kit

$9 BUY NOW

With this Lunar Landing Sticker Kit, kids can land on the moon, go on a moon walk, and explore outer space, all from the comfort of their airplane seat. The glow-in-the-dark stickers are ready to light up the night, and the fold-out moon scene makes for quick set-up and take down. If your kid has opted out of the space race, you can pick up a similar sticker kit with rainbow ponies or trains instead.


Target

LEGO Blue Bricks Building Starter Kit

$9 BUY NOW

Your child will enjoy building and playing with this blue LEGO set. They can use their creativity and follow the instructions or build whatever they want.

 


Toy Boarders

Toy Boarders Skate Series

$6 BUY NOW

Pick up a pack of AJ's Toy Boarders in the Snowboard or Skate Series, and you'll have many little green riders ready to catch air off the armrest. You'll get a bunch of cool parent points, and you'll have a happy, busy travel companion for the duration of your flight.

 


Target

Crayola Color Wonder Stampers & Markers

$10 BUY NOW

We love that this Crayola Color Wonder kit includes loads of artsy fun without the mess. With five fruit-scented markers, blank paper, five stampers and a chocolate-scented ink pad, little ones will be kept busy coloring and creating.

—Taylor Clifton & Oz Spies

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Traditional baby and toddler toys boost brain-building, hands-on exploration and are durable so younger siblings can play with them, too. Our favorite non-electronic baby and toddler toys come without batteries and ear-splitting beeps. Little ones learn through play, so a few carefully chosen toys in the toy bin will give your baby a chance to have fun as a tiny scientist, artist, and motor-skill champ. Here are a few of our favorite non-electronic toys for babies and toddlers.

Ronald Hechanova via Unsplash

1. Rattles
A good rattle is sized just right for babies working on tricky hand-eye coordination and learning how to pick things up. This classic toy doesn't look like much, but as babies grasp, shake and even slobber on it, they're learning about the world. Rattles reward curious little ones learning about cause and effect with a satisfying sound as it shakes. Choose a rattle you can easily clean, and make sure it's designed for babies to safely put it in their mouthsbecause it's sure to end up there!

2. Stacking Cups
Stack them in a tower, tip them over, put them inside one another, and then turn them into a home for a plastic cow. Stacking cups offer lots of interactive opportunities for fun and play. Most sets of stacking cups come in bright colors, giving little ones a chance to learn about colors. Balancing cups in a tower shape builds problem-solving skills, self-control and persistence. Another colorful stacking option is Grimms Rainbow, an all-wooden toy that's so beautiful you won't mind having it out on a shelf.

3. Sensory Bins
Toddlers learn about the world through hands-on activities and observation. Sensory bins or tables are a great way to give little ones a chance to explore. You can easily replicate this key preschool tool by filling a plastic bin with dry oats or water and adding measuring cups and scoops. If you're worried about the mess that scooping up water or dry oats can make, put a towel underneath your kiddo and the bin. If the weather is nice, put the bin outside to minimize clean-up, or purchase a water table or sandbox for more sensory fun. If you'd like to take your sensory-bin game to the next level, hide plastic animals or cars for kids to find, or dye rice or dry pasta for rainbow-colored play. Bonus: Sensory bins give curious kids a chance to learn about volume (how much water fits in a scoop?) and boosts imaginative play and language development.

Scandiborn

4. Push-Pull Toys
From Fisher Price's classic, affordable plastic corn popper to a wooden animal on a string, push-and-pull toys are beloved by budding walkers everywhere. These toys encourage balance and gross motor skill development, and they make perfect buddies for toddlers as they stumble and zoom through your home. We love this Little Dutch Walker & Block Trolley from Scandiborn ($59.95, pictured above), as it combines two beloved non-electronic toys in one.

5. Classic Blocks
Your kiddo will play with a set of durable wooden blocks for years and years. With blocks, little ones get a chance to work on problem solving as they figure out how to stack blocks on top of one another or organize them in a row. Eventually, blocks become a blank canvas for imaginative play, as kids turn their creations into castles, houses and zoos. Talking about block creations builds language and conversation skills, and, with a big set of blocks at the ready, older toddlers can work together and learn about cooperation.

6. Dolls & Stuffed Animals
Whether you're looking for a lovey for comfort or a toy your child can practice caring for and rocking to sleep, soft dolls and stuffed animals are a great addition to any baby's toy collection. Playing with dolls helps little ones learn about empathy and feelings. Pro tip: Choose those without plastic eyes that can be a choking hazard!

Jelleke Vanooteghem via Unsplash

7. Music Makers
One of the benefits of non-electronic toys for parents: fewer ear-splitting sounds. But sometimes a baby has just got to make music. Whether you break out your pots and pans and a wooden spoon or give your child a toy drum and a few egg shakers, toys that let kids make their own music are always a hit. Sturdy music-making options without batteries are more likely to last from kid to kid, and they give children the chance to be more creative. We like wooden xylophones like this one from Melissa & Doug because of their bright colors and the variety of sounds they make.

8. Balls
Roll it, throw it, catch it! Balls are awesome for boosting motor skills and hand-eye coordination. But they're also a great way to introduce little ones to the back-and-forth interaction and taking turns, which is one of the building blocks of conversation. Rolling a ball gives grown-ups the chance to connect and make eye contact with babies and toddlers, and it boosts language development. From soft balls with jingly bells inside to bumpy plastic balls just the right size for chubby little hands, toy stores are full of options perfect for babies and toddlers.

9. Bubbles
Bubbles mesmerize babies and toddlers (and many parents) as they float through the sky. Whether you make bubbles at home (we like this DIY option) and blow them outside to delight your kiddo, or pick up a bubble-making lawn mower, bubbles are a surefire hit with little ones. We like to keep a few jars of bubbles at the ready to distract cranky little ones.

10. Ride-On Toys
A good ride-on toy gives toddlers hours of indoor gross-motor fun. These toys develop balance and give little legs a workout. One of the best first-birthday gifts, our fave ride-on toys come with a basket or bin that little ones can use to give their favorite toy or stuffed animal a ride around the house, promoting imaginative play, too! We love the sturdy Little Red Rider Wooden Kid's Ride-on Bike from Hape. 

—Oz Spies

RELATED STORIES:

The Smart Moms’ Guide to Montessori Toys for Babies & Toddlers

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Let’s Play! Sensory Activities for All Five Senses

A recent study of adults ranging from 22 to 37 discusses the toys millennials grew up with, and we are totally taking a trip down memory lane. While times have changed over the last generation, it’s reassuring to see that most of the top toys from the ’80s and ’90s are still alive and kicking today.

Despite having more toys than any previous generation, about 35 percent of parents polled in the study believe their children spend less time playing with toys than they did at the same age––a shame!

Curious as to what the most popular toys for millennials are? Keep reading to find out!

Barbie

lil'_wiz via Flickr

Barbie made her debut in March of 1959 and has been a mainstay for toy dolls ever since. Mattel has sold over a billion dolls since her birth and continues to reinvent herself with inclusive sizes, ethnicities and more. You don't have to look far to find a Barbie, and we tend to love the styles from the '90s best because they speak to our inner millennial. The stylish doll with thousands of shoes, clothes and professions inspired a generation—and continues to do so today.

Fisher Price Phone

eBay

The Fisher Price Chatter Phone is a staple in toddler toys. Made for youngsters 12 to 36 months old, this toy first hit store shelves in 1962. The pull-along toy started out with a rotary dial but in 2000 it was changed to push buttons––because hello 21st century. Kids loved having their own phone and having long-distance phone convos on their own time and it paved the way for a generation of smart phone lovers.

Beanie Babies

Joel Telling via Flickr

Remember the Beanie Babies fad in the late '90s? It made such a fuss that it's still widely regarded as one of the world's first internet sensations! The plush collectibles were the only "toys" that kids were somehow okay not playing with. We learned the hard way that cutting off that heart-shaped tag had devastating consequences.

Sylvanian Families/Calico Critters

eBay

Whether you lived in North America, Australia or Europe growing up, you probably played with a Sylvanian Families doll. The flocked mini-woodland creatures hold jobs, have hobbies and come usually in sets of four family members. In the early 1990s, the toy's distribution company lost it's rights in Canada and the United States, so they were reintroduced as Calico Critters. Ever since, kids have been collecting the whimsical animals and trying not to knock over all those adorably tiny accessories while playing.

My Little Pony

Chinnian via Flickr

The My Little Pony brand originated in 1981––prime millennial age. We literally grew up with the brightly colored plastic ponies and even though they have gone through four reboots, it hasn't stopped generations of pony lovers, and even bronies from staying true. The newest update, My Little Pony Friendship is Magic has inspired an entire new generation with the Mane 6 and, dare we say it, might be the best incarnation of MLP yet.

Tamagotchi

Katy via Flickr

If you've never accidentally killed a Tamagotchi digital pet, are you even a millennial? But seriously, the handheld Japanese toy took the '90s and early 2000s by storm and required more attention than most toys of the day and age. It went through 44 different versions between 1996 and 2009, but you can actually still purchase the original on Amazon for a mere $20. Or, you could always just snag the Tamagotchi app, since you're more likely to carry around your phone than your pocket pet.

Care Bears

John Trainor via Flickr

In 1981 Care Bears hit the scene—but on American Greetings cards! In wasn't until 1983 they made their way into plush form—and then three made-for-TV movies—when our hearts fell in love. Now, there are more than 210 Care Bears and the lovable bears have gone through relaunches in 1991, 2002, 2007, 2012 and now 2018 where it was announced they would get their own show on the streaming service, Boomerang. You'll soon be able to visit Care-a-lot and the Kingdom of Caring with your own kiddos!

Nintendo Game Boy

El Barto Was Here via Flickr

If you had a Nintendo Game Boy, you had it MADE. The first 8-bit handheld video game debuted in 1989, and if you were super cool, you got the transparent version. The Game Boy was rugged and had tons of games that drew in boys, girls and even grownups alike. It was a pioneer to all the future handheld devices kids have at their disposal now and while you can't buy the original, you can definitely get your fix with the Nintendo DS or the Nintendo Switch.

POGS

eBay

I'll trade you my slammer for 10 of your pogs! Ahh, the ramblings of '90s millennials. The milk cap game that originated in Hawaii started a craze on the mainland and beyond. While there were just as many kids who simply collected the colorful and unique caps as those who actually played the POGS game, there was simply the fact that you could never have enough in your collection.

Hungry Hungry Hippos

David Goehring

The goal of Hungry Hungry Hippos it to be the player to collect the most marbles––or is it? While kids loved playing this fun and exhilarating game, there were equal amounts of parents who felt the object was to drive them crazy because this game is LOUD. But never fear, now our own kids can terrorize us because this game is still around today and you can find it on Amazon for under $20.

Spirograph

Ebay

Oh the never-ending drawings you could make with a Spirograph! Grab your colored pens and sit back for hours of fun. Nobody knew the frustration more of a Spirograph that jumped the track more than a nineties kid. The toy was relaunched back in 2012 so you can still give your kiddos the gift of spirals!

Jump Rope

Hans via Pixabay

As kids, millennials dreamed of being Double Dutch stars and we had the jump ropes to prove it! While most us ended up jumping solo, the jump rope was a constant friend, along with the tones of jumping songs to go with it.

––Karly Wood

 

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15 Throwback Toys From Your ’80s Childhood

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Whether you’re taking a long drive to visit grandma or a short jaunt around town, car rides can make little ones get squirrelly in their car seats. Can you blame them? Staring at your feet or the back of a seat would be boring for anyone. So read on for baby-tested, parent-approved toys, games and tips that are sure to get their motors running.

photo: Sean Freese via Flickr

Sing It, Sister
Driving is the perfect time for a family sing-along. Think kid classics like “Wheels on the Bus” or tunes you make up yourself. Even if little ones don’t know the words yet, they love hearing your voice. Bonus: This kind of interaction boosts your wee one’s literacy and pre-literacy skills. If you’re looking for new songs to add to your repertoire, check out Story Blocks, a project of Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy, where you’ll find 30- to 60-second videos of songs and rhymes.

Busy Bee Box
Put a sturdy cardboard box or plastic bin on the seat next to your baby and fill it with a rotating mix of fun distractions, like board books, a soft teething toy, and a clutching toy like the Manhattan Toy Zoo Winkel Elephant. Older babies and toddlers will love fishing things out of the box during drives, and you’ll always have a few extra items to bring in to restaurants or on play dates.

Arch Over Baby
For little ones who can’t grasp toys out of a box quite yet, an activity arch packed full of fun, like this one from Oball, will keep kids busy while you focus on the road. There’s a sweet lion to clutch, a soft ball to kick or swat, and a rattling blue elephant. It also comes with loops you can use to attach different toys. Bonus: Once you’re out of the car, it attaches to your stroller.

Available at Toysrus.com, $19.99.

Peek-a-Boo
If you or a big sibling are sitting next to your baby, play a few rounds of peek-a-boo. Play this perennial baby favorite with a favorite toy (Where’s Teddy?), or make it super silly by throwing a receiving blanket over your own head and disappearing. Prepare yourself for a flood of sweet baby giggles.

A Box of Band-Aids
Seriously. In an emergency, hand over a tin of bandages and let your toddler cover imaginary boo-boos. It sounds crazy, but it works. Plus, this trick costs less than $3 per box. Bonus tip: This works equally well on an airplane!

Who’s the Fairest of Them All?
It’s you, baby! A mirror that safely affixes to the headrest — and stays out of your wee one’s reach  gives your child a chance to admire that adorable mug and make faces at themselves. And, even better, it lets you see them from the driver’s seat. We like this Taf Toys Tropical Car Mirror, which adds a cute monkey to keep your baby’s attention.

Available at amazon.com, $14.99.

Vroom Vroom
Create a sound journey for your little one by making noises that match what you see outside: a rumble for trash trucks, vroom for cars, woof for dogs. This tip comes from Vroom’s science-based tips that boost early learning, anywhere, anytime. When children search for new objects and listen for the sounds they make, they’re making a connection and building their ability to carefully observe the world around them. For more (free!) ideas that are super-easy to incorporate in any busy day, in or out of the car, check out the Vroom website or download their app (iOS or Android).

 

Put on a Show
A puppet show, that is, with finger puppets like these soft, sweet monkeys. Older babies can play with them on their own, or a fellow passenger can use them to entertain little ones during a long car ride. Five little puppets, jumping on the bed!

Available at amazon.com, $16.46.

Make or Buy a Quiet Book
Pick up a soft activity book, like Melissa and Doug’s find-the-puppy option ($9.89), with flaps to lift and paper to crinkle, to pull out as soon as that last car seat buckle is snapped. Crafty parents can whip up their own version by following one of the dozens of patterns on the Quiet Book Blog. You’ll find step-by-step how-tos to create pages with buttons and zips, ladybugs and dinosaurs, or almost any other fabric creation that strikes your fancy.

Attach a Mobile Mobile
A sweet animal trio dances around overhead on Skip Hop’s musical mobile. You can attach it to car seats, travel cribs and strollers, making it a great option for longer road trips that involve nights away from home. With up to twenty minutes of music, it’ll last until naptime.

Available at toysrus.com, $29.99.

Wooden Wonder
Teethers keep the hands and mouth occupied on quick trips, like to the grocery story. A pretty bird tops off this organic teething ring of beech wood, handmade by Etsy seller Noni Design. It also features crocheted cotton and wood beads for baby to explore and comes in other colors and animal designs.

Available at Etsy store Noni Design, $19.63.

In and Out
Get a small container, like the Ubbi Tweat, and let your child practice putting a teeny, tiny Cheerio in, then taking it out. Babies’ little fingers get practice with fine motor skills, and they’ll be so distracted that minutes in the car will fly by. Note: This one, and any other on-the-go snack, is best if someone is stationed next to new eaters to avoid any possibility of choking.

Available at amazon.com, $9.99.

Tell us below: What’s your favorite car toy or game for little ones?

— Oz Spies

 

 

Photo: TheSlanted

Adding a handcrafted touch to our kids’ lives has been en vogue for ages now, and Amazon’s making it easier for those of us who are challenged in the crafting department. Amazon’s Handmade at Amazon is expanding it’s store to offer handcrafted items in new categories such as Baby and Toys & Games. Everything is genuinely handmade, crafted and sold directly from artisans.

The categories in the handmade baby store includes:

  • Baby & Toddler Toys
  • Nursery Bedding
  • Nursery Décor 
  • Nursery Furniture
  • Nursing & Feeding

For those buying gifts for older children, Amazon offers homemade toys and games. Some of the categories included are:

  • Sports & Outdoor Play
  • Pretend Play
  • Learning & Education
  • Dolls, Toy Figures & Accessories

Homemade at Amazon also incorporates Home Decor, Handbags & Accessories, Furniture, and Stationary & Party Supplies.

Are you addicted to handmade items? Tell us in the comments below!