33 Unique Easter Basket Fillers (That Aren’t Candy)

by Gabby CullenMarch 12, 2024

If there’s one thing the Easter Bunny (ahem, you) knows, it’s that there are plenty of treats and sweet Easter basket fillers floating around on the big day. That’s why a basket not brimming with sugar is a good move for you and the kids. They’ll have fun surprises and Easter basket stuffers to enjoy, and you’ll be spared the inevitable crash after one too many chocolate bunnies.

We’ve curated a unique collection of Easter basket fillers for kids of all ages—even hard-to-please tweens. Believe it or not, there are a ton of fun and adorable fillers that don’t include a sugar coma. Pick one or two special gifts to surprise them with on Easter morning, or go all out and welcome the unofficial start of spring with a huge haul. Whichever way you go, these picks are sure to get the Bunny’s stamp of approval. So sneak a Peep or two (we won’t tell) and check out our list of basket-ready ideas.

Amuseable Tulip Pot

Did you squeal a little? We did. A plush pot filled with tulips and a contented little demeanor are exactly what we needed but didn't know it.

Amuseable Tulip Pot ($40.00)—Buy Here!

Sunflower Butterfly Sheer Crew Sock

a person's legs propped against a pink wall wearing sheer floral socks — Sock Candy

If you can find a better spring-inspired sock, let us know. We'll wait. If florals aren't what you're after, though, Sock Candy has a bunch of fabulous sheer (and not-so-sheer) socks to check out, too.

Sunflower Butterfly Sheer Crew Sock ($18.00)—Buy Here!

Lego Flowers in Watering Can 3-in-1

Older kids especially appreciate a more involved Lego build, and this cheerful watering can is absolutely ready to display for spring. It's a 3-in-1, so they can build perching birds or a rain boot, too!

Lego Flowers in Watering Can 3-in-1 ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Paint by Sticker Kids: Pets

a paint by sticker book laid out open to show pages — Amazon

Skip the wet paint and go straight to stickers with this puzzle art activity book. With 10 colorful pets to sticker-'paint', it's a great choice for any upcoming spring break travel, too.

Paint by Sticker Kids: Pets ($7.91)—Buy Here!

Tiny Gardening by SmartLab Toys

A miniature desktop greenhouse complete with tiny gardening tools is perfect for spring. It's a craft-meets-science-project that lets them experiment with seeds and soils over and over.

Tiny Gardening by SmartLab Toys ($24.99)—Buy Here!

Bunny & Chick Building Pieces Set Tube

These interlocking pieces are like if a puzzle and Legos had a baby that create 3-D builds like this adorable bunny and chick, complete with carrot and an Easter egg! This one is adorable for Easter basket stuffers.

Bunny & Chick Building Pieces Set Tube ($16.48)—Buy Here!

Giant Hatch & Grow Dinos, Set of 3

three dinosaur egg toys with three dinosaur figures — Lakeshore Learning

When these prehistoric eggs get submerged in water, they crack and hatch a dino within 72 hours! (We don't know that's not how it really happened, right?)

Giant Hatch & Grow Dinos, Set of 3 ($22.99)—Buy Here!

SunGemmer Window Art Suncatcher Kit

This sparkly set includes 2 pre-printed window designs, 2 color guides, over 1000 SunGemmer gemstone sun-catching stickers, a double-sided mounting tape, plus full instructions.

SunGemmer Window Art Suncatcher Kit ($12.99)—Buy Here!

6-Pack Hatching Baby Plants Egg Bundle

set of 6 pink plastic eggs and multiple plant baby figures — Schleich

You probably didn't know baby plants could be so darn cute, but don't feel bad. We didn't, either. This bundle comes with 6 eggs, each with a baby plant ready to hatch, and a collectible mini-poster inside.

6-Pack Hatching Baby Plants Egg Bundle ($19.99)—Buy Here!

Bitzee Interactive Toy Digital Pet

We all remember our first digital pet, their little habitat hanging from keyrings on our backpacks. Bitzee is the next generation, with 15 pets inside that all react to touch: pets, swipts, and tilts. It's the #1 most-gifted on Amazon, so you know it's good.

Bitzee Interactive Toy Digital Pet ($29.49)—Buy Here!

Snowshoe Hare Adoption Kit by Earth Rangers

rabbit virtual adoption kit — Earth Rangers

Bring home a (plush!) Easter Bunny of your own and make a direct contribution to protecting animals your kiddo loves. The Snowshoe Hare Adoption Kit includes a plush bunny rabbit, an adoption certificate, a trading card, and a poster with fun facts to learn about your new fluffy friend (here's one: after blending in with its snowy surroundings all winter, the Snowshoe Hare changes its fur back to a rusty brown to celebrate spring!)

Snowshoe Hare Adoption Kit by Earth Rangers ($36.00)—Buy Here!

Kidoki Cat's Cradle

Get them engaged and learning with these fun cat's cradle game variations—complete with string and instructions.

Kidoki Cat's Cradle ($6.00)—Buy Here!

Kitsch Chiffon Dinner Hair Scrunchie

female with head turned to feature the pink scrunchie in her dark curly hair — Kitsch

This extra-large, 8in diameter scrunchie is the perfect way to add a little extra oomph to any outfit, plus it works with most hair types. Available in 3 colors.

Kitsch Chiffon Dinner Hair Scrunchie ($13.99)—Buy Here!

Articulated Axolotl Fidget Toy

a hand holding a teal axolotl toy — Curious Minds Busy Bags

This friendly Axolotl has a jointed tail that keeps hands busy! It comes in 4 colors (and it's great for both adults and kids).

Articulated Axolotl Fidget Toy ($13.99)—Buy Here!

BAKEUP Beauty Gem Playbox Set

If they're not ready for makeup, these gems are perfect for adding some sparkle whether they go all out or add just a little bit of bling.

BAKEUP Beauty Gem Playbox Set ($24.00)—Buy Here!

Zodiac Trinket Dish

Everyone loves goodies with their zodiac sign, and this little bowl is ideal for jewelry, change, or tiny treasures your kids collect throughout the day. All 12 zodiac sign designs are available.

Zodiac Trinket Dish ($16.00)—Buy Here!

Goblies Throwable Paintballs

pack of throwable paintballs in pink — Goblies

There's no better way to celebrate the warmer spring weather than by getting a little messy. These throwable paintballs have all the splashy fun of traditional paintballs, without the high-impact launching. The paint is washable and non-toxic, too. Available in multiple colors.

Goblies Throwable Paintballs ($14.99+)—Buy Here!

Pure Magic Vinyl Sticker

If decorating-with-stickers was a class, our kids would get an A+ every time. It's become a real art, and this sticker is a must-have addition to their collection.

Pure Magic Vinyl Sticker ($3.50)—Buy Here!

Tiny Floral Temporary Tattoo Tin

small metal tin filled with floral temporary tattoos — Tattly

How gorgeous are these temporary tattoos? They're safely printed with vegetable-based ink and can last up to 4 days.

Tiny Floral Temporary Tattoo Tin ($15.00)—Buy Here!

World's Smallest Hungry Hungry Hippos

tiny game of hungry hungry hippos — World's Smallest

It works exactly the same as the original game, except, well, smaller. We're seriously big fans of this tiny game.

World's Smallest Hungry Hungry Hippos ($9.95)—Buy Here!

Art Cube Flower Pop

No one ever said Rubik's Cubes have to be in primary colors only. No one. This flowery art cube works exactly the same as the original, but with a twist. Pardon the pun.

Art Cube Flower Pop ($20.00)—Buy Here!

Highlights Hidden Pictures Easter Puzzles

If there's anything the folks over at Highlights know, it's puzzles.

Highlights Hidden Pictures Easter Puzzles ($11.69)—Buy Here!

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Easter Edition Game

There's a good chance your family already loves the original Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza card game (and if they don't yet, they absolutely will!), and the Easter Edition is just as much fun.

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Easter Edition Game ($9.99)—Buy Here!

Build-A-Bear Mini Beans Collection

stuffed cow, hedgehog, and plush easter basket filled with three mini plushes — Build-A-Bear

Even if you're skipping jellybeans this year, don't skip these Mini Beans! Build-A-Bear's collection of Easter basket-sized buddies includes Splatter Cow, Cool Quills Hedgehog, and, of course, Pawlette Rabbit.

Build-A-Bear Mini Beans Collection ($9.50+)—Buy Here!

Glamnetic Press-On Nails in 'Siren', Short Oval

hand with shiny teal press on nails — Glamnetic

Glamnetic nails are notorious for gorgeous designs, multiple length and shape options, and major staying power. We think these short mermaid-inspired nails are perfect for tweens who aren't quite ready for a full-length set. Use them with the included glue, or snag some of the press-on sticker tabs, instead, for less mess and less commitment.

Glamnetic Press-On Nails in 'Siren', Short Oval ($19.99)—Buy Here!

Ooly Scented Tutti Fruitti Color Changing Gel Pens, Set of 6

These are quite possibly the coolest pens we've ever seen. From schoolwork to journaling, these are an awesome addition to their options.

Ooly Scented Tutti Fruitti Color Changing Gel Pens, Set of 6 ($9.95)—Buy Here!

NeeDoh Chicka DeeDoos Stress Squeeze Toys, Set of 3

NeeDoh creates the ultimate stress ball, and this bundle of three neon chicks are here to help you knead the stress away (or to just play with for the sensory experience).

NeeDoh Chicka DeeDoos Stress Squeeze Toys, Set of 3 ($15.99)—Buy Here!

YAWN WORLD Kit 01

YAWN is cosmetics specifically for kids. You read that right. All of it is formulated without sulfates, parabens, phthalates, silicone, mineral oil, or talc. It's designed to be fun and a little messy. This kit comes with All Smiles Lip Balm, Totally Cool Face Multi-Stick, and Be Chill Body Balm, all in a little YAWN pouch.

YAWN WORLD Kit 01 ($29.00)—Buy Here!

Easter Eggstravaganza Mad Libs

Is there ever a bad time to add Mad Libs to a gift (or Easter basket?)?

Easter Eggstravaganza Mad Libs ($4.99)—Buy Here!

Miniverse Lifestyle Home Series 1 Mini Collectibles

mini set of birdhouse and vase accessory toys — Target

Each ball comes with realistic mini items and accessories to make your own mini replicas of your favorite lifestyle and home decor pieces! From birdhouses to flowers, and once you've created your replica, simply set it under any UV light for the resin to harden before you display.

Miniverse Lifestyle Home Series 1 Mini Collectibles ($6.99)—Buy Here!

Crazy Aaron's Color-Changing Sunshine Putty Trio

Everyone loves Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty, and this springtime-themed trio feels like it was made for Easter basket fillers.

Crazy Aaron's Color-Changing Sunshine Putty Trio ($19.95)—Buy Here!

Lip Smacker Lippy Pals

set of three animal themed lip balms — Lip Smacker

We'll always have a special place in our hearts for Lip Smacker, and these Easter-themed Lippy Pals come in Foxy Apple, Hoppy Carrot Cake, and Strawberry Llama. We might need a set, ourselves.

Lip Smacker Lippy Pals ($9.99)—Buy Here!

MOLO Sola Sunglasses

girl wearing pink mirrored cat eye sunglasses — Smallable

These UV-protective mirrored sunnies were made for kiddos with a style all of their own. And, of course, it's literally never too early to start protecting their vision!

MOLO Sola Sunglasses ($40.00)—Buy Here!

Boutique Chic All Smiles Earrings

two sets of smiley face earrings — Great Pretenders

Y2K trends are back and we're not at all mad about it, especially when they include good-vibey smilies like these earrings.

Boutique Chic All Smiles Earrings ($6.99)—Buy Here!

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

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

Is Your Nursery Keeping Up with Your Growing Baby?

By Habbi Habbi

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

February 1, 2024

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

girl reading book — 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.

—Manisha Shah, Sonia Chang (Playfully) & Anne-Louise Nieto (Habbi Habbi)

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

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

Habbi Habbi

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Habbi Habbi is about inspired, intentional parenting. This means being intentional about the home culture we are nurturing. These are the values that inspire our feed, the stories we share and the products we have picked for you.

11 Adorable Ideas for Baby’s Monthly Milestone Photos

by Eva Ingvarson CeriseJanuary 24, 2024

Think flowers, candy, stuffies, and stickers

Everybody loves the baby milestone blanket, but maybe consider these other creative and super-cute baby milestone photo ideas that show their growth in the first year. Add your unique spin to one of the following set-ups; if you’re short on time or not the creative type (we get it), we’ve included props you can purchase to add flair to your photos.

Flowers and Leaves

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A post shared by t e r e s a (@felicitypress)

This is one of the sweetest baby milestone photo ideas we’ve seen. Teresa, a custom artist and illustrator based in Southern California, surrounded her daughter Elena in beautiful blooms and leaves to show how she blossomed each month. Create seasonal scenes as she did, or place one perfect rose or daisy next to your child the first month and then add a flower each month as a visual indicator of your child’s age.

Mini Blocks

picture of blocks that people can use in baby milestone photo ideas

These mini blocks give you lots of flexibility with how you display your message. Add a heart or a holiday symbol and stack the blocks vertically or lay them side by side in a pattern. Long after your child has hit the one-year mark, use these blocks to spell out your child's age in years or what grade they're in.

Buy them here, $30.

Animal-Themed Baby Milestone Cards

Pose your child on a neutral background to make these wood safari animal-themed cards stand out. Each disc is double-sided and features adorable giraffes, lions, and lions, and there's even a card announcing the arrival of your sweet bundle.

Available at Etsy shop Brickhousegifts, $28

Monthly Milestone Chalkboard

This chalkboard comes in two sizes (9x12 and 12x16) and features cute, hand-drawn animals. Add milestones, favorites, and other important baby data, and then choose a light-colored, neutral background and take a close-up shot so the text is readable.

Available at Etsy shop Image Ability, $20

Seasonal Props

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A post shared by Chelsae | Family Blogger (@alunderfullife)

Seasonal props that show the baby’s age in months convey the passing of time and will make for an amazing collage to commemorate that first year. Family blogger Chelsae in Tampa Bay took this photo of her daughter Evelyn with these autumn leaves for November, and she used candy hearts in February and beach toys in June.

Sleeping Baby Pictures

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A post shared by Asha Lane, REALTOR® (@ashasellsatl)

We love this baby milestone photo idea because there’s nothing sweeter than a sleeping infant. And with each month, you’ll appreciate not having to force a smile in each month’s photo. With a sleeping baby, you can take the shot quickly, and your child will always look beautiful and relaxed. If you’re worried about your child waking up, take photos at the end of naptime rather than at night. A shortened nap is easier than getting a crying baby back to sleep at night.

Favorite Stuffie

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A post shared by Alice Morais (@littlepearlsphotography)

Posing your child next to the same stuffed animal each month shows how big they’re growing. It also lends itself to seasonal-themed photos and shots of impromptu hugs with their fuzzy friends. This photo from Alice Morais of Little Pearls Photography, a maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in Kennesaw, GA, captures both a seasonal theme and a sweet moment with a stuffed animal.

Photo Banner

a banner to hold pictures, a cute baby milestone photo idea

Put your favorite photo from each month in this self-editable photo template. You can also record the date and a short message. Once you've printed them out, attach them with a clothespin to raffia or ribbon to create a beautiful photo banner. When you update the banner with a new card each month, take a photo to show family and friends your baby's life in pictures.

Available at Etsy shop partiara, $9 for a self-editable template.

Everyday Items

You don't need to be crafty or buy expensive props to create cute monthly baby photos. You need a gorgeous baby (check!) and to be creative with items you already have. Pose your babe with common items like diapers, onesies, pacifiers, or food (cupcakes are a new-mom fave). Spell out how old your baby is in months, or place the items around your child. Use the same prop every month or switch it up based on your baby's preferences.

Sports Stickers

Dress your baby in a solid-colored onesie and pop on one of these sporty stickers for consistent and cute photos each month. Or, get creative with where you place the sticker, like on a baseball cap, favorite stuffie, or diaper as your baby crawls away from you. If your older baby is too busy to sit still for a photo with you, a sticker gives you lots of flexibility on where, and how, to take an awesome photo.

Available at Etsy shop Custom Print Gallery, $10.

Inkless Foot and Handprints

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A post shared by Milestone Cards | Inkless Milestone Cards (@littlemilestones_littlelullaby)

Printed on special paper, this pack of baby milestone cards gives you those coveted baby fingers and toes, but with zero mess.

Buy them here, $54.

Spread some serious joy by sharing your baby milestone photos with family and friends near and far on the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

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

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

9 Tips for Baby’s First Holiday Season, From a Mom of Six

by Suzanna LoganDecember 12, 2023

A seasoned mom shares all the best ways to navigate the festive season with a wee one

They say it’s the most wonderful time of the year—and it is!—but even at the best of times the holidays can be a tad stressful, from travel logistics and finding the right gifts for everyone on your list to those less-than-subtle comments from relatives. Now throw a newborn into the mix and suddenly the season has an entirely new sense of magic, plus a fresh set of challenges as you navigate ever-changing sleep schedules, seasonal viruses, and an overwhelming number of commitments. As a mom of six, I’ve journeyed through my share of holidays with a new baby in tow (my third was born one week to the day before Christmas, and I really wish I’d had this list back then). Drawing from personal experience and expert advice, here are some tried-and-true tips for helping a new mom survive (or even thrive!) this holiday season.

1. In Good Health

No matter the season, keeping your babe healthy is always priority number one, but it’s especially important to be on guard with a newborn during the holidays. Baby’s immature immune system, large crowds gathering indoors, and the circulation of respiratory viruses make for the perfect storm. Dr. Priya Thomas, founder of Mindful Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine and mom of three, explains the risk. “An adult who just has a cold can pass along RSV, which can become severe in young babies.” Her advice is to steer clear of the crowds, practice proper hand-washing, and ask others to do the same before holding your infant. “Parents should feel empowered in this area, as it’s a matter of the health of the newborn,” says Thomas. But she is quick to remind us that that doesn’t mean new parents need to skip all the fun with friends and family. “This is the time to be creative. You don’t have to miss out on the holiday cheer, just avoid the large holiday parties and opt for a more intimate gathering in your home,” she suggests.

2. Respond Right

As you spend more time with family and friends in the coming weeks, expect a flurry of questions and offers of unsolicited advice. (Take it from me, this time of year they’re as reliable as busy stores and even busier parking lots.) For example, if your little one’s sleep schedule coincides with a family event, you might hear remarks like, “We never cared about schedules in my day.” While these comments are often well-intended, they may not be helpful, especially when tender, postpartum emotions are swirling. To ease the pressure of responding in the moment, prepare a general response ahead of time, such as “We’re doing what we think is best for our baby.” Give your response with confidence and a smile, then gracefully transition the conversation to a more enjoyable topic. And, if tensions escalate still, take some advice from Theresa Gray, founder of Blooms of Grace Counseling. “If you’re noticing that you’re starting to feel anxious, angry or stressed, it’s okay to step away for a moment,” she shares. “Take deep breaths that fill your belly and relax your jaw and visualize a peaceful scene or memory.”

3. Baby Yourself

This time of year is all about giving, so go ahead and give yourself the gift of a break. “Self-care is often thought of as things like hot baths, mani-pedis, and shopping trips with friends, but those aren’t really the things that recharge us,” explains Gray. “Instead, self-care during this busy and highly sociable season might be to get up before the baby to prepare yourself and your heart for the day.” She continues: “It should include spending intentional time with your spouse or close friends and asking for help and communicating the needs and desires you have.”

a toddler sleeping on their tummy for a story about when babies can sleep on their stomach — iStock

4. Respect the Nap… Or Don’t

With all of the added festivities, the holidays are notorious for throwing off routines. As the parent, you get to decide whether to toss your schedule to the wind or politely decline any events that may mess it up. In my early years of motherhood, I took the respect-the-nap-at-all-costs approach. Although I missed out on certain events, I enjoyed the outings I did take because I had a happy, rested sidekick. Now, six kiddos in, we tend to let baby nap on the go, and she generally thrives in the spontaneity. In the end, how much to alter your baby’s schedule over the holidays is up to you and the kind of kid you have. “There is wisdom in keeping to a schedule, as there is a physiological need for that, but some flexibility is good, too,” says Thomas. “I am all about being mindful of what works for your family.”

5. Layer Up

The weather outside can be frightful this time of year, so it’s especially important to dress your little one so that they’re warm and comfortable. Because infants aren’t able to regulate their body temperature yet, they can lose heat four times faster than adults—though that’s not a reason to keep them indoors, no matter how many times your grandma warns about catching your death of cold. “Your baby is not going to get sick from exposure to the cold, but do be mindful of low temperatures and proper clothing,” advises Dr. Thomas. Layering is the key to ensuring your tot doesn’t get too cold or too hot. The rule of thumb: Dress them in the same amount of clothing you’d wear yourself, then add a layer. Also, be sure little’s outfit includes a hat, as the head and face are where babies lose heat the quickest.

6. Travel Smart

If you’re hitting the road this year, it can be helpful to plan your drive around baby’s nap time or bedtime to help you travel in peace. If they’ll be awake for the drive, schedule in lots of stops for feeding and cuddling. If your babe is prone to fussiness in the car, consider a genius travel companion like this: the Baby Shusher. It has consistently calmed our crankiest car-bound babies (and also soothed their hyperventilating parents) for years. Another option is the Hatch portable sound machine, or just turn up the tunes. “Santa Baby,” anyone?

7. Toy Time

Now that you’re a parent, it’s time we break it to you: for the next decade, the holidays will be virtually synonymous with toys. So many toys. If you have family eager to load baby up with gifts, my seasoned-mom advice is to skip anything with batteries (a.k.a. noisemakers) and keep it simple. For young babies, an activity mat is a great choice, suggests Thomas. “You can do tummy time on the mat with a newborn even just for a few minutes,” she says. “Look for one with a mirror and different contrasting colorings and textures, things they can touch and feel or make sound.” For older babies, my go-to’s are wooden blocks, hand puppets, and board books, each of which develops their motor skills or fosters imagination and emotional connection.

a mom cuddling a bundled up baby during baby's first Christmas — iStock

8. Slow Down

During the holidays, we often feel the pressure of doing more, but this is your permission to slow down. Replace the holiday “ho-ho-ho” with “no-no-no.” “Self-care sometimes means saying ‘no,’” Theresa explains. “You don’t have to do everything and be everywhere. Choose the things that prioritize the health of your family and the reason for the season.” (Read that again if people-pleasing is your kryptonite.) Letting the hustle and bustle of the holidays pass while you soak up the simple pleasures—quietly snuggling up on the couch with your favorite festive bevy and your tiny little elf—may be the best thing you add to your schedule this season.

9. Nobody’s Perfect

Sometimes, the most precious moments are the least perfect. It took me a long time to learn this. For years, I aspired to have the perfect Christmas tree (you know the one, straight from a Pottery Barn catalog), but with so many curious little hands moving things around, I’d have to rush to secretly redo the ornaments each night after bedtime. Now, looking back, I realize that I missed the magic in pursuit of perfection. Learn from my loss and let go of the idea that there is an “ideal” Christmas or Hannukah card, photo, or party. Instead, be present with your baby and enjoy the moment, no matter how imperfectly (or downright messily!) it unfolds.

Kids Products You Won’t Believe Are Real (& Highly Rated!)

by Kate CartiaSeptember 24, 2023

These weird kids products might actually be genius

There’s always some new product for babies and kids out there. The “next big thing” is just around the corner, and with kids growing and changing fast, it makes sense that products have to keep up. Sure, when we were growing up, we were gnawing on wooden blocks and throwing glass bottles with latex nipples across the room and we came out okay. Right? Or at least, made it to adulthood. That doesn’t mean the “new and improved” weird kids products aren’t, well, improved.

But we’ve gotta say it. There’s also some weird stuff cropping up. The “are you serious” products that we can’t quite believe are real. They’re good for a laugh, but what if they’re actually brilliant? What if these strange products work like a charm? Well, we did a little research and, lo and behold, there are a lot of them that do. Based on Amazon reviews, this stuff seriously can’t be missed and might ultimately become must-haves. So, between making your life as a mom easier, saving you some time and money, and giving you the chance to tell all your friends that you found the Holy Grail of parenting, we think this list is going to blow your mind. But in a good way. These are the weird kids products that might actually be brilliant!

Dingle Dangle Headband Baby Change Helper

If diaper changing is miserable for you and your babe, have you considered strapping an octopus to your head?

Real Review: Bonkers but brilliant. My partner walked in wondering what on earth I was wearing on my head. And then he saw how much my son was smiling! -Suzy Harvey

Dingle Dangle Headband Baby Change Helper ($40.00)—Buy Here!

Munchkin Brica GoBoost Travel Booster Seat

A pop-up booster seat with storage for diapers and supplies that also folds down and comes with a carrying strap. Okay, yes, that's pretty smart.

Amazon Review: Works great for random places that don't have a good baby seat available, or for when your little one is just a bit too little for the standard restraining seats restaurants tend to have. Just pull over any chair, or park 'em in the booth corner next to you. Quick to deploy or pack up. The storage is also nice to have a few distraction toys at the ready. -Michael T. Gillespie

Munchkin Brica GoBoost Travel Booster Seat ($43.75)—Buy Here!

Aussie Bubs Goat Milk Infant & Toddler Formulas

Aussie Bubs is the#1 goat milk formula in the U.S. Goat milk naturally supports gentle digestion and may be a good alternative for formula-fed babies with sensitive tummies. Aussie Bubs uses all the good stuff your little one needs for to grow and feel their best, without anything yucky. In fact, Aussie Bubs Goat Milk Formula (Infant & Toddler Formulas) contains no GMO, corn syrup, maltodextrin, growth hormones, artificial sweeteners, chemicals, pesticides, colors or preservatives. Clean Label certified.

Real Review: Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the goat milk formula. My son (6mo next week) has been on it for ONE DAY and he is a brand new baby. After being on specialty formula for suspected CMPI, we ran out and couldn’t find any more. Our pediatrician gave us the go ahead to try your formula and wow. He has energy, he is laughing, he slept all night for the first time in his life last night and was able to lengthen his wake windows this morning. This has changed the game for my family. We are in the Atlanta area! -Chelsea

Aussie Bubs Goat Milk Infant & Toddler Formulas ($28.00+)—Buy Here!

The Noggle

This car vent extender works to keep the backseat comfortable by routing A/C and heat to rear riders, including pets! It comes in 6ft, 8ft, and 10ft, options.

Amazon Review: We bought this for our 1 year old. We live in Fl so the summers are pretty brutal plus he is still rear facing and 2 of our vehicles didn’t have rear AC. I do think the vent attachment design could be better / maybe have some type of foam or seal on it. But all in all I’m happy that he’s finally able to get some air back there. Would recommend! -johnathan wireman

The Noggle ($59.99+)—Buy Here!

Dwink Universal Drink Box Holder

This little beauty prevents tiny hands from squeezing too hard on juice boxes and fits even the most unique box shapes!

Amazon Review: I love how universal it is with various juice pouches/boxes. -Heather Reader

Dwink Universal Drink Box Holder ($13.95)—Buy Here!

Finger Pinch Guard Door Stops

Pop these on the doorjamb and prevent doors closing all the way on little fingers.

Amazon Review: Most will use these to quietly leave the room when the baby falls asleep and not let the door make noise, but let me tell you after they learn to walk and become toddlers. These are perfect for when the kiddo learns to slam doors. They will save your frames!! -Stephanie Smith

Finger Pinch Guard Door Stops ($7.99)—Buy Here!

Emergency Foldable Disposable Potty

To be completely fair, when kiddos have to go, they have to go.

Amazon Review: So helpful to have around. Perfect for in the go potty emergencies! So easy to pop open and use. Sturdy! -Amazon Customer

Emergency Foldable Disposable Potty ($9.90)—Buy Here!

Waterproof Diaper Pants

These overnight diaper pants are waterproof and absorbent, plus they can be washed and reused. Maybe they're not as weird as they seem?

Amazon Review: Get it. Just get it! My 6yo has issues with night training. I’ve never seen someones [sic] pee go through waterproof mattress pads! I have tried several! She is highly allergic to pullups so I was running out of options and sanity. The FIRST night she put these on she woke me up at 1am (which she never wakes up from an accident so it definitely helps make them aware) and said “Mommy I did it again”. Of course I panicked & has asleep went looking for the spot on the bed because these pants were FILLED! Not one spot on the bed. The pants absorbed it all! We changed her clothes and went back to bed! THANK YOU!!!! -4ShotsofCatron

Waterproof Diaper Pants ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Easy Pouch Self Feeding Pouch Holder

No squeeze, no mess, self-feeding pouch holder 2 pack for babies 7 months+. Okay, we're sold.

Amazon Review: Does exactly what it needs to. First thing my toddler did every time she received a pouch? Got excited and squeeze some out. On her. On the couch. On the floor...This solves that problem. -Ryan

Easy Pouch Self Feeding Pouch Holder ($9.99)—Buy Here!

Frost Kids Toothpaste

There's a chance we want to try both of these, ourselves. And really anything that gets them to brush is on the "Definitely" list. The Birthday Cake version is fluoride-free and the Watermelon Slushie is a traditional fluoride version!

Product Review: Teeth are whiter and feel so clean! My daughter said that in addition to the great taste, she loves how clean her teeth feel. After a couple of days of her using it, I noticed when she was talking to me that her teeth looked noticeably whiter. Now I want to try it, too. -Cynthia G.

Frost Kids Toothpaste Birthday Cake ($9.95)—Buy Here!

Frost Kids Toothpaste Watermelon Slushie ($9.95)—Buy Here!

KneeGuard Kids Car Seat Footrest

If increasing our kids' comfort makes car rides more pleasant, then we're in! This footrest has been crash- and safety-tested, too.

Amazon Review: I found this incredibly easy to put together, easy to install, & easy to adjust. There's actually a point near the top of the stand that you either install above or below, based on child's height. When I installed in the car, I had it above the point when I should've had it below. It was so easy to take apart & fix I didn't even have to fully uninstall it to do. -April | Project Downsize

KneeGuard Kids Car Seat Footrest ($49.75)—Buy Here!

Lugabug Travel Seat Ride-On Suitcase for Kids

This fully collapsible travel seat is fully collapsible and attaches to most roller bags!

Amazon Review: Was very useful while carrying a 2 year old through airports. Takes a bit trial and error to get the fit right on your bag but once you figure it out its very easy to use. -Roy

Lugabug Travel Seat Ride-On Suitcase for Kids ($47.50)—Buy Here!

Hot Mom Baby Stroller

If you're into your #aesthetic, the Hot Mom Store has your back! Their products are all about form and function—look at the rose gold hardware.

Amazon Review: The stroller was easy to assemble. We also loved the color and the sturdiness of the stroller! I highly recommend this stroller if your looking for something stylish and cute! 👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Dianna Knight Graham

Hot Mom Baby Stroller ($539.00)—Buy Here!

Go With Me Duo Deluxe Portable Chair

Outdoorsy families rejoice!

Amazon Review: Definitely a nice chair for the little one can use it in the house out side [sic] camping and it doesn't take up tons of space very sturdy tons of straps to help with younger kids that are learning to hold themselves up. -Andrew

Go With Me Duo Deluxe Portable Chair ($99.99)—Buy Here!

WONDERFOLD W4 Original Quad Stroller Wagon

We'll admit it. We'd love to ride around in this 4-kiddo canopied wagon.

Amazon Review: I am a mommy of 3, 3 and under, and use this wagon whenever I have the chance! My family and I bought it to replace our hard-to-use double stroller and it has become a holy grail. One of my biggest concerns was the ease of use, but unfolding and folding couldn’t be simpler. I was also worried about it taking up too much space in our trunk (we drive a 2022 Highlander for reference) but it leaves a great amount of room for groceries and luggage when you lay it flat with the handle up! I am IN LOVE and cannot wait to use it for years to come! -A.Donaldson

WONDERFOLD W4 Original Quad Stroller Wagon ($595.00)—Buy Here!

Long Sleeve Baby Bibs

...okay why didn't we think of this??

Amazon Review: These long-sleeved waterproof bibs are perfect for my 2 yr. old and 11 mo. old grandchildren. It keeps their clothes clean and is so easy to wipe clean. I also love the pocket in the front to keep food from falling on the floor and their seat. I highly recommend! -Amazon Customer

Long Sleeve Baby Bibs ($9.94)—Buy Here!

Foam Bed Bumpers

You can skip the separate toddler bed and go straight to the big kid bed with these genius under-the-sheet foam bumpers!

Amazon Review: We bought this for our 4 year old who is now sleeping on a full size bed. He moves quite a bit, but the bumper helps him stay in the bed. They come in a small box, but inflated pretty much immediately after getting them out of the packaging. He will sometimes place his head on the bumper, hug it or put a leg over it. It does the job. He has not fallen out of bed once. These were the tallest bumpers of this kind I could find. I am pretty happy with the purchase. -Ester

Foam Bed Bumpers ($52.92)—Buy Now!

Plush Banana Man Doll

What?

Amazon Review: I don't know this "Banana man" thing is, but my mom found it one day scrolling and told me how amazing he was and couldn't stop laughing. So I bought it, put it in a gift bag under the tree and Christmas morning all you hear is mom say my name, we all laugh as she launches him out the bag laughing hysterically hard screaming "Banana mannnnnn!" I give it 20/10 just for that. -wittymelon455

Plush Banana Man Doll ($15.98)—Buy Here!

Taco Tuesday Baby Toys

They're adorable, but they really are a lot of fun and include rattles and crinkle sensory play options!

Amazon Review: Adorable taco set my baby loved it . The avocado is a bit hard but has a ball with beads in it so it’s entertaining for my baby. Limes perfect for teething. -lilli

Taco Tuesday Baby Toys ($13.98)—Buy Here!

Smiley Mia Penguin Buddy Never Drop Silicone Baby Teething Toy

We love how these teethers are easy to grip, even for the teeniest hands!

Amazon Review: I'm on my third baby, and have multiple friends with multiple babies so I can confidently say I've used, seen and bought many baby teethers. This it the only one that doesn't get dropped constantly. My 4 month old loves to hold it even if she's not chewing on it. And when she starts fussing, I give it to her, she chews, and immediately calms down. I do have to help her open her fingers around the bar to grasp it, and I also helped her figure out how to chew on it in the beginning, because she kept stabbing herself in the eye.. But she caught on pretty quick and she loves it. We took it to a Dr. check up and the nurse commented on how cool it was and the design of it. I would buy again, and as a gift for other babies. -Amazon Customer

Smiley Mia Penguin Buddy Never Drop Silicone Baby Teething Toy ($9.99)—Buy Here!

Potty Training Urinal

If you're struggling with potty training, this might be a good option.

Amazon Review: I don't usually write reviews but my almost 3-year-old has been slow to potty train. He hasn't been wanting to sit and pee on the potty. Decided to finally give one of these a try after looking at them on and off for almost a year. First day he peed in it 3 times. Definitely worth it. Easy to clean, it is small but it's for toddlers so I don't personally think it's too small. -Christina

Potty Training Urinal ($14.99)—Buy Here!

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

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

Everything You Need to Know about Creating a Montessori Playroom

by Oz SpiesJanuary 31, 2023

We love the fact that this requires us to throw stuff away

Over 100 years ago, Maria Montessori changed the world with her inspirational education philosophy focused on the curiosity and dignity of young children. Known for its peaceful environments, organized spaces, and clever materials that encourage hands-on learning in everything from practical life (think sweeping and getting dressed) to math and literacy, studies have linked Montessori environments to higher math and literacy skills.

Bring that philosophy home with a Montessori playroom: Imagine everything having a place and including beautiful things that inspire focused, engaged play for minutes—or even hours—on end, basically, a parent’s dream. To help make it happen, we’ve created a step-by-step guideline.

Set the Tone

shelves in a montessori playroom — Carrie Allen via Unsplash

Simple, clean, beautiful, and child-focused: that’s what you’re working towards when you create a Montessori playroom. Think natural materials, light colors on the walls, sturdy wooden furniture, a soft rug, bright sunlight, and a calm atmosphere.

As you plan your room, build a cozy corner with pillows or cushions for dreaming and book reading, designate a space for active play, and include easy-to-access shelves at the child level.

The best Montessori environments nurture curiosity and independence by design. Everything starts with the child. Nothing’s off-limits, and materials (the Montessori word for toys, art supplies, and everything else used to promote learning) always have a designated place so children can take things out and put them back again, all by themselves.

As you put together your playroom, think about what your child will be able to see and reach: a book basket at their level is better than a high shelf, as is an art display that shows their newest masterpiece where they can see it.

What to Ditch

First step: kick the clutter. We recommend stocking your space with a few well-made toys and a bin of books. Box up plastic gadgets with missing parts, and toss the free toys that came with chicken nuggets. There’s no need for expensive screens or toys with buttons, batteries, or remotes. Montessori philosophies emphasize real over imaginary, so instead of animated characters, consider picking puzzles or books that feature realistic drawings of animals and plants.

Put away toys your child has outgrown or tricky games he’s not ready for yet. A Montessori playroom will look different for a two-year-old than for a five-year-old. Once your child has mastered a material—like zipping the zippers on a dressing frame, a Montessori work made to help kids learn to dress themselves, move it to a storage closet and put something fresh in its place. Plan to rotate toys in your Montessori space every few months.

Furniture and Furnishings to Add

IKEA furniture is great in a Montessori playroom — IKEA

Wooden shelves keep your Montessori playroom organized and streamlined. We like Ikea’s low wooden shelves paired with woven baskets and bins.

If you have space, bring in furniture that gives kids a chance to climb and use their big muscles. The Pikler triangle is a Montessori-inspired climber that can be adjusted as your child grows.

A soft rug that invites your child to settle in and explore Montessori materials on the floor creates a peaceful, cozy space. You might also add in a child-sized table and chairs for snack time, painting, or writing, like these.

Stocking Your Toy Shelf

Montessori classrooms have five areas: language, math, practical life, sensorial and cultural studies. A Montessori-inspired playroom can incorporate items from these areas, depending on your budget, how closely you want to stick to Montessori principles and your child’s interests. Whatever you pick, choose quality over quantity, and wood, not plastic.

Montessori materials are self-correcting. If you put a puzzle piece in the wrong place, it doesn't fit, so you take it out and try again. If a child stacks graduated blocks in the famed Montessori tower in the wrong order, the tower will tip over—the child tries again until the tower stays up. Whether it's the tower, a simple shape puzzle for infants or toddlers, or an animal puzzle for older kids, the best Montessori-inspired materials are sturdy and teach by design.

If you’re overwhelmed with the idea of stocking your playroom, check out the subscription kits like LOVEVERY which pack up age-based materials in a single box.

More Small Stuff to Add

little boy in a Montessori playroom — Paige Cody via Unsplash

There are more beautiful, practical, and high-quality materials to bring into your space:

A set of wooden blocks are a must for a Montessori playroom. They’ll grow with your child since they do everything from help babies work on grasping hold of things to four-year-olds building epic skyscrapers.

Preparing for everyday life, from getting dressed to cleaning up, is key in Montessori environments for toddlers and preschoolers. In your playroom, stash a pint-sized broom and dustpan in a corner and add dressing frames. Other practical-life materials include a small glass pitcher and glasses for pouring water and tweezers and scissors to build fine motor skills.

Preschool-aged kids are ready for hands-on methods of learning letters and practicing writing. Sandpaper letters like these are common in Montessori classrooms, or you can choose a Montessori-ish material like this wooden letter puzzle from Melissa & Doug. Add paper and pencils with a child-sized clipboard, thick watercolor paper, and a nice set of paints.

The good news? Not everything for a Montessori playroom comes from a store. Outside items like shiny rocks or daisies for flower arranging (a popular Montessori activity) make for affordable additions.

Want to Learn More about Montessori?

To learn more about Montessori philosophy and classrooms, check out the American Montessori Society.

For at-home tips, including budget-friendly Montessori ideas, check out Montessori in Real Life

Carrots are Orange has endless at-home learning ideas

Purists will love the goods on display at Montessori Outlet

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

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

3 Totally Unique Menorahs You Can Make at Home

by Melissa HeckscherNovember 29, 2022

The Menorasaurus is our favorite DIY menorah idea!

Want to jazz up your Hanukkah with a homemade menorah that your kids will love? It’s easy! The secret ingredient to your hip homemade Chanukkiah is the 3/8″ hex nut—these little metal bolts are perfect for holding Hanukkah candles. Basically, if you’ve got something that can hold nine hex nuts, you’ve got yourself a menorah. Want to get started? We’ve got three easy tutorials for DIY menorahs, and when you’re done, be sure to check out our other favorite Hannukah crafts for kids.

Editor’s Note: Be sure to place all menorahs on a level, non-flammable surface away from drapes, decorations, and fabrics. Keep them out of reach of children, and never leave a lit menorah unattended. To be extra careful, we recommend menorahs not made out of metal be coated with a fire-retardant spray (like this one) before use to reduce the risk of fire.

The Menorah of Misfit Toys

If your junk drawer is anything like ours, it's probably full of left-behind kid stuff you wish you had the heart to throw away. Don't toss those treasures; use them for this menorah that will make your kids love their misfit toys all over again.

What you'll need:
-Nine small toys or figurines (think Barbie heads, Happy Meal toys, lone blocks, etc.)
-Nine hex nuts
-Wooden plank (or a few simple wooden blocks glued together to make a platform)
-Hot glue gun

What you'll do:
Have your kids dig through their toy boxes (and your junk drawers) and pick out nine small toys to use as candle holders. Be sure they find one that's a little taller that can serve as the shamash. You can also place the shamash toy onto a block to set it higher than the others, as shown above.

Glue hex nuts onto the top of all the toys, and be sure to cut off any hair or string that poses a fire risk when candles are lit. Let your kids decide which toy will go where and then glue them all onto the platform.

The Menorasaurus

Go ahead: Type it into Pinterest and you'll see the whole kingdom of prehistoric menorahs for sale. Why not make your own? It's super-easy, and takes less than an hour to make!

Good to know: This menorah doesn't leave much for the kids to do (hot glue guns and spray paint aren't exactly child-friendly), but your kiddos will love seeing their dinosaur transformed into an instant Hanukkah heirloom.

What you'll need:
- Plastic dinosaur
- Nine hex nuts
- Metallic gold spray paint
- Clay (for leveling the hex nuts)
- Hot glue gun

What you'll do:
Let your kids pick out their dinosaur (Hello, Dollar Store!).

Using a hot glue gun, glue eight hex nuts onto the back of the dinosaur and another atop the head for the shamash. To make sure all the candles will stick up straight, squish a little clay onto the bottom of the hex nuts before gluing them onto the dinosaur (it helps to also dab some glue onto the bottom of the hex nut themselves so they really stick into the clay)

Spray the whole thing with metallic gold spray paint and you're done!

Hot Lights (or, the Hot Wheels Menorah)

What you'll need:
-Nine Hot Wheels cars (with flat tops)
-Nine hex nuts (or 10 if you want to raise the shamash candle a little higher)
-Wooden plank
-Paint
-Hot glue gun

What you'll do:
Have your kids pick out nine cars and paint or decorate a plank of wood however they wish. While the paint is drying, glue the hex nuts atop the cars as shown. For the shamash (middle) candle, use a taller car or glue two hex nuts atop so it stands higher than the others.

Let your young assistants help you arrange the cars in whatever order they want. Then, glue the cars onto the plank.

22 Creative Road Trip Activities (That Don’t Include Screens)

by Heather DixonJuly 27, 2022

Embarking on a long road trip with little ones can make even the most seasoned parents nervous. But having fun and keeping everyone entertained (without plugging in) is easier than you think. Here are 22 boredom-busting road trip activities and car games for kids to ensure backseat moaning and groaning are kept at bay. Screen-free fun for the win!

1. Plan it out. Before hitting the road, catalog the kitschy, weird, and wonderful sights to see along the route. World’s largest ball of twine, anyone? Wall Drug pit stop? You bet! Then, make sure to stop and gawk a while so the kids can stretch their legs and you can grab a few family selfies to post. Find memorable roadside attractions that made our list or choose your own landmarks.

2. Keep little hands busy. A toddler's hands are best kept busy between those hypnotic highway naps. A large plastic yogurt container with a rectangle cut out of the top combined with a Tupperware full of colorful pom-poms—little hands love to stuff fuzzy balls into the container. Or, try threading oversized buttons onto a ribbon when the second wind hits.

3. Map out your trip. Pick up a few of the classic, old-school paper maps (one for each kid) and let them mark it up, highlight routes, check off milestones—whatever they’re interested in—as you go along your trip. It’s a great way to get them involved in the journey, instead of just focusing on the destination.

4. Play 20 Questions.
This classic road trip activity is easy even for your tiniest passenger. Make sure the answers are only yes or no and keep the answer simple for toddlers (in fact, give them a hint ahead of time: family pet, relative, favorite toy, etc.).

5. Pack a building kit. Building toys like LEGO are always an awesome and fun way to keep kids happily busy. But on road trips? That can be a challenge. This little container not only has a small drawer for important bricks, but it also has a handle and a building plate on top, which is ideal for car or plane travel. Buy it here.

6. Dress up dolls. Paper dolls sure have come a long way, baby. But what hasn’t changed is the way they engage the imagination over and over again. That’s why we love them for travel; you can check som out here.

7. Fold paper. Hit the craft store before hitting the road to snatch a pack of origami paper for the six and up gang. Make sure you have a flat surface, and you’ll be swimming in Chinese stars, fortune tellers and pirate hats before you’re even out of town!

8. Bring travel games and toys.
When it comes to the toys you'll bring along for the journey, there are a ton of fun classic and new options to choose from, like marble runs, magnet learning letters and more. See our favorites by clicking here.

Asian kids looking out window of car on family road trip — iStock

9. Let them decide. Kids love having choices and getting involved in decisions. Give them an hour or so out of each day of your road trip and let them dictate where you stop and what you do (with certain limits, of course). It may mean taking a whole bunch of extra stops, but it’ll be worth it to keep the peace. Plus—sometimes it’s just fun to say yes a lot more than you say no.

10. Stick it up. When you see windows, think blank canvas for your littlest road trippers. Dollar Store gel clings and window markers work great when the only view around is farmland and open country. You can even break out a pack of removable stickers to kick it up a notch if you’re feeling brave.

11. Make them work. Okay, so maybe not work, but put the kids into action with a scavenger hunt—like this easy printable one from Schooling a Monkey. It’s a great road trip activity that keeps kids busy searching for water towers, purple cars, a flock of birds—you name it! Grab stickers to check off the squares as you go, then sit back and watch how excited your kids get when they spot things like farms and traffic signs.

12. Play the counting game.
From big rigs to farms or flags, there are things you can count on while driving. Let your kid decide, and you can even make this road trip activity more challenging by narrowing the category (red cars instead of any car).

13. Play classic road trip games. Three words: License Plate Game. Bring this vintage fave back into fashion with your mini crew. Find plates from all 50 states (C’mon Alaska and Hawaii!) or modify it into an alphabet game starting from A to Z, using the plates you pass along the interstate. See our other favorites here.

14. Tell a tale. Spin a yarn to rival Homer’s Odyssey by creating an epic story-in-the-round with your little literati. One person begins the story (think once upon a time or in a galaxy far, far away…) and takes it to a cliffhanger moment (gasp!) before passing it to the next bard of the car. Keep it going as long as you can. Imaginations, engage!

15. Play with puzzles. These super cute magnetic wooden blocks from Tegu help pass the miles for the preschool bunch. Plus, they win the road trip trifecta. Easy to pack? Of course. Great for open-ended play? You bet. Tons of fun in a small space? Check!

family on a road trip will enjoy games you can play in the car — iStock

16. Listen up. There’s no better time to sit back and get comfy for some good old, mesmerizing story-telling than on a long road trip. Queue up a few great audiobooks beforehand. Or, check out these podcasts for curious kids before you head out on the highway. With a mix of something for everyone, the entire family can get in on the fun!

17. Go old school. A good retro road trip deserves good retro toys. Thank goodness so many are making a comeback. Etch-a-Sketch equals mess-free drawing (and a whole slew of questions about how it works) for the older bunch, and a View Finder takes the edge off for the kids who want to watch something.

18. Get crafty. Make your preschool teacher proud and pull out felt boards for your journey. These individual boards (look for them at your local craft store or indie toy shop) lend themselves well to car travel. Scenes can be continually recreated and the felt sticks to itself, but nothing else.

19. Start clicking. One fun road trip activity is to unearth an old Polaroid camera or get a few disposable ones before the trip. Have your kids snap pictures when the mood strikes. From the car, at a rest stop, when there are just 10 miles to go. Then, use these photographic masterpieces to create a journal of the trip when you return.

20. Hide trinkets. Set up your own Hidden Object game around the car before heading out. Place little trinkets (think leftover plastic spiders from Halloween, colorful paper clips, vintage buttons) in plain view around the car. Then when your road trippers are getting antsy, challenge them to see how many they can find.

21. Tell more stories. Get inspired to tell tales along the road by using story blocks. Make your own ahead of time or grab an adorable set, like these wooden story blocks from HABA. What you do from there is as open as the road. Pick them randomly from the tray they come in and let fate determine the direction of your story, or let the munchkins lay them out first and create a story from there.

22. Hand out rewards. Inject a little motivation into the trip with a prize box. Try playing the quiet game if things get too loud. Or offer a dip into the prize box if they can make it 10 more miles without a squabble. Prizes can be simple like getting to pick the next song or choosing the next activity, or you can stock up on a few dollar store items before heading out of town.

—Allison Sutcliffe & Heather Dixon

We Heart New York: Valentine’s Day Gifts & Activities

by Lambeth HochwaldJanuary 25, 2022

Looking for ways to show your Valentine/s some love? Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift, looking for something to do together or need an idea for a special activity, we can help! Read on for gifts from local shops and makers, as well cooking and craft projects you can do together (or make as a surprise gift)! And if you’re looking to do some major candy purchases, we can help with our list of the best candy stores in NYC.

But First: Free Chocolate

Valentine’s Day is obviously a big deal at GODIVA. In celebration of the holiday the chocolatier will have two larger-than-life installations of its Gold Ballotin and Goldmark Heart boxes pop up in NYC on February 8 in Herald Square and February 9 in Flatiron Plaza. And yes, they will be giving away chocolate!

(We're guessing they'll be hard to miss but you can keep an eye on GODIVA’s official Instagram for the exact location.)

See "Bloom" in Times Square

Wander among fluctuating heart-shaped shadows cast by "Bloom", the winner of the 14th annual Love in Times Square Design Competition. From afar, Bloom resembles a pavilion — a circular roof supported by a series of interlocked red and white PVC pipes, but its appearance changes with your perspective, above, below, etc. Designed by architecture and urban design practice Habitat Workshop, "Bloom" is presented in partnership with The Museum of Arts and Design and will be on view in Duffy Square from February 9 to March 9.

Feb. 9 - Mar. 9
46th & Broadway
Times Square
Online: timessquarenyc.org

Get Cooking

Taste Buds Kitchen

Make an adorable Valentine's Love Shack with Taste Buds Kitchen, either in your home or at its culinary studio in Chelsea. The in-person workshop, recommended for kids ages 3 to 8 is on Feb. 13. Prices start at $79 for one child and caregiver. Click here to register. Another option: order up a Love Shack ($75) to pick up or be delivered for a $20 fee. Click here to buy.

Taste Buds is also offering an in-person class for kids and caregivers making Valentine's Day Pop-Tarts on Feb. 12. (Starting at $50)

Freshmade NYC

Freshmade NYC is offering several Valentine's Day cooking projects to take part in live, via Zoom on Feb. 12 & 13. Make sweet or savory palmiers, heart-shaped bagels with berry cream cheese, or make an enjoy fondue together. Classes are $25.

Click here for class details, dates & times

Dig In!

Milk Bar Red Velvet Cake & More

If the ones you love are red velvet fans, get thee to a Milk Bar, stat! The American-style bakery from chef Christina Tosi with bakery locations all over NYC is serving up some very serious RV treats for Valentine's Day. Choose from red velvet cake, red velvet truffles and even red velvet soft serve!

Get a cake for $59, a dozen truffles for $29, or a combo pack for $84.

Online: milkbarstore.com

Dylan's Candy Bar Valentine Variety Tackle Box

This 20th Anniversary Limited Edition Tackle Box ($28) is a chic collection that includes sour gummy triple hearts, cherry taffy, Valentine marshmallows, milk chocolate hearts and more. Pick it up at Dylan's Candy Bar in Hudson Yards, or order it online.

20 Hudson Yards. 4th fl.
34th St. between 10th and 11th Avenues
Hudson Yards
Online: dylanscandybar.com

Get Creative

Make a Gift at The Painted Pot

Make a special something for mom or dad at The Painted Pot, where you can paint-your-own pottery or acrylic piece. (Pottery needs to be fired and picked up later, acrylic can be taken with you the day you craft.)

Cost for pieces and studio time is usually about $20-$30. Space is limited due to Covid-19 protocols, and you must book time in advance.

Still another option is The Painted Pot's art projects to go.

229 Smith St.
Cobble Hill
718-222-0334
Online: paintedpot.com

200 7th Ave.
Park Slope
718-768-8379

Family Art Project at Wave Hill: Love for Woodland Friends

Head to Wave Hill in the Bronx for crafting or birding. Family Art Project: Love for Woodland Friends

The art project celebrates the ways we care for each other by creating woodland-creature sock puppets. Kids can give a puppet as a heartwarming gift, or keep it to remind them of our local woodland friends.

For families with older kids, go on a guided birding excursion. Explore Wave Hill’s tranquil gardens and woodland with naturalist Gabriel Willow to observe birds in their winter habitat. Birders of all levels are welcome. Please (Bring your own binoculars. Ages 10 and older welcome with an adult.)

Art Project: Sat. Feb. 12 & Sun., Feb. 13, 10 a.m. - Noon
Free with admission to the grounds
Wave Hill House
675 West 252nd St.
Bronx
Online:wavehill.org

Birding: Sun. Feb. 13, 9:30–11 a.m.
$15, including admission to the grounds.
Meet at Perkins Visitor Center

Get Moving

Zoom With Laurie Berkner

Laurie Berkner is performing two special "Valentine's Day" LIVE Virtual Family Concerts on Sunday, February 13 at Noon and 5 p.m. Eastern Time. The shows will feature songs about love such as "A Hug From My Mama," "I Love You Daddy" and "My Family," along with some of her greatest hits, including "We Are The Dinosaurs," "Victor Vito," "Pig On Her Head" and "Rocketship Run." A family ticket grants admission to one or both livestreams.

Tickets: $20
Online: live.laurieberkner.com

Get Comfy!

Love-ly Throw Pillows

Sometimes you need to make a statement and have it live on your living room furniture every single day. Just ask Alexandra Ferguson, who is all about the love (we’re partial to her ‘Love Lives Here’ pillow for sure), and has been designing recycled felt pillows featuring fun and sassy phrases using die-cut letters sewn in her Brooklyn warehouse for the last 12 year. To order, visit her website or her Etsy shop. Prices start at $64.

Online: etsy.com/shop/alexandraferguson

Arranging Box DIY Flowers

Anyone can grab roses from a corner bodega and arrive home with a smile and a stunning dozen, but Arranging Box curates fresh blooms and help you expertly style them. Make an arrangement for your beloved, or gift them the kit if that's up their alley. All kits come with fresh flowers, a flower recipe box and step-by-step designing tutorials created by the company’s founder, a savvy floral designer who pivoted to create this company during the pandemic. $59 and up.

Online: arrangingbox.com

Get Fancy

Glitter Heart Slides From Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store

Maybe these are for your little valentine, maybe they are for you. Either way, they're fab. Pick some up ($14) at Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store in Brooklyn or online.

Fifth Ave.
Park Slope
232-522-9848
Online: blueribbongeneralstore.com

Get Zapped!

Forever Bracelets at Catbird

Nothing says forever like...forever. Catbird will zap (i.e., weld) a dainty bracelet on a wrist to be a constant reminder of love. (Of course, you can take them off if you really need to.) Get one for someone special, get a matching pair, etc. Prices start at $98. Minimum age is 10. Weldings are by appointment only a the Soho location.

253 Centre St.
Soho
718-599-34576
Online: catbirdnyc.com

Get Weird!

Name a Bronx Zoo Cockroach

Can you love a cockroach? The Bronx Zoo says "yes!" and this Valentine’s Day you can name one of the Zoo’s Madagascar hissing cockroaches. The full package comes with roach beanie, a pair of roach socks, a printed certificate with your roach’s name and a very crawly Virtual Encounter with one—and a surprise animal guest too. From $15.

Online: bronxzoo.com

—Lambeth Hochwald & Mimi O’Connor

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10 Fun & Easy Baby Shower Games Your Guests Will Love

by Katie L. CarrollJanuary 24, 2022

Your guests will love these baby shower game ideas

When you’re planning the activities for a baby shower, you’re looking for games that are easy to learn, fun to play and not likely to make guests cringe. These games are all that and more.

ABC Baby Book

The prize for this game goes to the mom-to-be, who gets a homemade alphabet book crafted by her favorite people. Let guests choose what image to draw for each letter or, if you think they'll need inspiration, choose a theme for the book (it can even match the shower theme). Stop by the cuppacocoa blog for a free template and full instructions.

Baby Guess Who?

Maximum fun with minimal prep work: Guests email you baby photos of themselves prior to the shower, and you print them up, number each one, and create a display on a wall or table. Print out numbered sheets where guests can try to match each guest to the pictures.

Year One Bucket List

There are so many memorable things parents can do with their baby in the first year, but with baby brain, it can be hard to remember to do them. Have guests write down one first-year bucket-list item (from blowing. bubbles to visiting the zoo) on a note card and drop it into a basket for the mom-to-be to take home. Bonus points for using a diaper caddy as the basket, like the one above from Keababies, since the mom will find this invaluable for diaper changes.

Clothing Decorating Station

Fill up baby’s wardrobe with customized outfits using blogger Lovely Indeed’s decorating station idea. Provide solid-colored baby clothes in a variety of styles and sizes, fabric markers, iron-on designs, and an iron. Your friends will have fun designing these tiny outfits, and Mom will get one-of-a-kind baby gear made with love.

Wishes for Baby

Ask every guest to share a wish for the new baby in this sweet idea from the Art Bar blog. Use pastel card stock and the blog’s free animal templates, or use scrapbook paper and your own shapes for the cards. Hang ribbon and small clothespins on your wall so guests can post their wishes for everyone to read.

Candy in a Baby Bottle

For a super easy game, fill baby bottles with a set amount of small candies, like sprinkles. Place a bottle at each table with a note that asks guests to guess the number of candies. This game doubles as an icebreaker as tablemates try to figure out the exact number. At each table, the person with the closest guess can win the candy.

Play-Doh Creations

Give each guest a container of Play-Doh and 15 minutes to sculpt a baby-related masterpiece (like a baby, pacifier or bottle). Let the mother-to-be pick her favorite to win a prize.

Hand-Crafted Baby Blocks

Ask shower guests to show off their artistic sides by decorating baby blocks. Provide blank wooden blocks, markers, stickers and more (Fireflies and Mudpies has instructions for making these textured blocks) and let your guests get creative. After the party, paint the blocks with a natural wood varnish for a special gift for baby.

Children's Book Quiz

For a book-loving mom-to-be, set up a quiz with trivia from classic children’s books. Or, create a fill-in-the-blank quiz with titles of children’s books. This is a good way to get guests chatting, as they remember their own childhood favorites.

Match the Socks

All you need to play this game are a bunch of new baby socks in different colors, patterns, and sizes and a cute laundry basket. We love the sock bundles from Cheski Sock Company, shown above. Throw the unpaired socks into the basket, set a timer, and have each guest match as many as they can in one minute. Mom-to-be gets a laundry basket and a great sock collection for baby, and your friends get a workout and some laughs.

— Katie L. Carroll

featured image: iStock

16 Creative Baby Shower Favors

Baby Shower DIY Craft Projects Guests Will Love

Amuseable Tulip Pot

Sunflower Butterfly Sheer Crew Sock

Lego Flowers in Watering Can 3-in-1

Paint by Sticker Kids: Pets

Tiny Gardening by SmartLab Toys

Bunny & Chick Building Pieces Set Tube

Giant Hatch & Grow Dinos, Set of 3

SunGemmer Window Art Suncatcher Kit

6-Pack Hatching Baby Plants Egg Bundle

Bitzee Interactive Toy Digital Pet

Snowshoe Hare Adoption Kit by Earth Rangers

Kidoki Cat's Cradle

Kitsch Chiffon Dinner Hair Scrunchie

Articulated Axolotl Fidget Toy

BAKEUP Beauty Gem Playbox Set

Zodiac Trinket Dish

Goblies Throwable Paintballs

Pure Magic Vinyl Sticker

Tiny Floral Temporary Tattoo Tin

World's Smallest Hungry Hungry Hippos

Art Cube Flower Pop

Highlights Hidden Pictures Easter Puzzles

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Easter Edition Game

Build-A-Bear Mini Beans Collection

Glamnetic Press-On Nails in 'Siren', Short Oval

Ooly Scented Tutti Fruitti Color Changing Gel Pens, Set of 6

NeeDoh Chicka DeeDoos Stress Squeeze Toys, Set of 3

YAWN WORLD Kit 01

Easter Eggstravaganza Mad Libs

Miniverse Lifestyle Home Series 1 Mini Collectibles

Crazy Aaron's Color-Changing Sunshine Putty Trio

Lip Smacker Lippy Pals

MOLO Sola Sunglasses

Boutique Chic All Smiles Earrings

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