But what if you want to think outside of the box a little? This buying guide will cover five great and affordable bath toys for toddlers. That way, you can find something your little one can connect with. Let's get started!
There's something about stacking cups that makes babies light up. So why not take that activity into the tub? The Munchkin Caterpillar Spillers Stacking and Straining Cups make this fun by allowing the toddler to make a caterpillar shape.
Or, they can take apart the colorful cups and use them for straining the water. Plus, this toy compacts nicely. So storage is no hassle with it.
Do you have a budding artist in your home? If the answer is yes, then Nuby 5-Pack Easy Clean Bath Time Crayons are a perfect way to stoke creativity in them. The five colors (red, green, yellow, blue, and purple) are encased by plastic.
Whenever your toddler needs more, they push up on it. And don't panic. The bath crayons are easily washable. So, you don't have to panic about your child's masterpiece becoming a permanent part of your bathroom.
Related: How to Bathe Your Newborn Baby
You can't beat the classics. In a toddler's imagination, a simple tugboat in a bath can be as enjoyable as a real boat at sea. The little details on the Green Toys Tugboat Bath Toy make it an excellent option for budget-conscious parents.
Plus, the toy is designed so your child can scoop and play with the water while in the bath. Best of all, the toy is made from recycled plastic. As such, it's a good choice for parents that want to make a more environmentally conscious decision.
If baths scare your toddler, consider getting them the Manhattan Toy Penny Penguin Washcloth. This combines a stuffed animal with a washcloth. It's a great way to calm your baby down.
Plus, it makes the process of putting soap on them that much more fun. It's a creative toy you can bring to your bathtime.
Related: Teaching Self-Soothing: The Cry It Out Method
Soon, your toddler will outgrow essential toys and want something that challenges them a little more. When they reach this stage (usually around eighteen months), consider getting them the Nuby Floating Purple Octopus Interactive Bath Toy.
The toy has three rings that your child can try to throw around the octopus's tentacles. This is an excellent way to develop your child's hand-eye coordination. It will also undoubtedly make bathtime more of a splash with your toddler.
Want to explore more fun toys outside of the bathtub? Check out some of the products we sell here on 123 Baby Box.
As a parent, you might think you must bathe your baby every day. However, that's not the case. The reality is that experts say you should bathe your baby two or three days out of the week.
In fact, if your baby takes a bath every day, it can dry out their skin. To make bathtime easier, we recommend keeping it confined to a particular day. Making a bath part of your child's bedtime routine can do wonders toward making the process easier for you.
There are several good rules of thumb when picking safe bath toys. For starters, look for large toys. Anything that can fit easily into your child's mouth might not be a good fit. Next, make sure you read the label on the toy. It will tell you the recommended age group and instructions to use it safely.
Lastly, look for non-toxic, plastic toys. These types of toys don't tend to have sharp, harsh edges. Because of this, they're a lot better for toddlers. If you want a complete list of tips for buying toddler toys, make sure to check out this guide by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Related: Parallel Play: Using Playtime to Encourage Social Development
We know that finding bath toys for your toddler that are both safe and fun can be stressful. And it's not just limited to bath toys. As a parent, it's unlikely that you have tons of hours to spend researching various baby products.
If you find yourself in this type of situation, we recommend investing in services like Baby Box 123. Our service takes the guesswork out of finding great baby products.
That way, you can spend your valuable time on what actually matters, like taking care of and bonding with your new child.
Interested in getting hand-picked baby toys shipped right to your house? Explore our subscription packages to find out which one is right for you.
At first look, it might not appear like that big of a deal to invest in bath toys for your toddler. After all, aren't baths just for getting your kid clean? In reality, bathtime is a significant bonding activity between parent and child.
One study found that playtime between parents and toddlers helped promote strong development and healthy bonds. Treating your baby's bath like playtime allows you to foster this critical connection.
And a good set of bath toys makes it quite easy to do this. So, if you purchase any of the products on this list, you should be in pretty good shape.
]]>One way is to invest in a toddler pillow that prevents flat heads. But how do you find this type of toddler pillow? If you want to discover the answer to this question, you're in the right location.
This buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preventing flat heads. Let's get started!
A baby's skull has soft spots throughout it because it hasn't fully fused. These weak spots are composed of moveable bone plates. Why do they need to be moveable? So it's easier to fit through the birth canal. This is helpful both during the birth process and afterward.
Once the baby has been born, it allows its brain to grow without exceeding the capacity of its skull. According to this resource, there are several things that can cause flatheads in babies.
The way they sleep and their preferred head position are factors. But other causes include things like:
So keep in mind that the way your child sleeps isn't the only determining factor in whether or not they'll have a flat head.
Related: Tucked In: How to Dress Baby for Sleep
The Bliss n' Baby Head Shaping Organic Cotton Pillow is at the top of our list because it was designed by doctors to prevent the flat head syndrome. It does this successfully by evenly distributing the weight from your baby's head throughout the pillow.
Just because a pillow is made for flat heads doesn't mean it needs to be plain. The KeaBabies My Little Dreamy Pillow helps prove this.
This type of toddler pillow comes with tons of adorable options to choose from. On top of that, it's lightweight and affordable. Plus, it retains its shape quite nicely over time.
The Coop Home Goods Original Toddler Pillow is perfect for babies with slightly flat heads because you can customize the amount of filling.
You can remove some memory foam so that the pillow perfectly contorts the size of your toddler's head. However, if you have kids who like to play with stuffing, there might be better options.
Related: Co-Sleeping With a Baby: Guide & Safety Tips
The JOLGOO Baby Head Shaping Pillow certainly comes with one of the unique designs. The pillow is shaped like a heart with a round hole in the center of it. The design of this pillow does wonders for relieving pressure caused by the flat head syndrome.
It can also help correct the shape slightly over time. Plus, it's great for warm weather because the cotton material that comes with it breathes nicely in the hot air.
Having a toddler doesn't mean you must compromise your buying ethics. The My Little North Star Toddler Pillow & Pillowcase. Everything, from the shell to the pillowcase, is made out of organic material.
The only problem is that it doesn't keep its shape as well over time.
Are you feeling overwhelmed as a new parent? Read this guide; it will give you five valuable things to know as a first-time parent.
Investing in a good toddler pillow isn't the only way to prevent a flat head on your baby. According to Sanford Health, there are several other things you can do. First, ensure you always put the baby to bed flat on their back with no toys or blankets near them.
If you're swaddling the baby, make sure they're secure, so they aren't moving too much. You can read this guide if you need help with your swaddling skills. Next, when you're in the process of feeding or holding your baby, try to change your arms frequently.
That way, your baby isn't resting too much on one side of their head. You should also limit the time your child spends in swings or carriers.
Lastly, make sure that your practice tummy time! This might not seem like a massive deal, but it allows your baby to build up muscles that can prevent a flat head.
Hopefully, buying guides like this will help make your life a lot easier. Here at 123 Baby Box, parents are already strapped for time without having to research products.
We offer a subscription box service that sends you a monthly supply of great baby products, like toddler pillows. That way, you can benefit from a great selection of merchandise without spending a lot of time sorting through reviews.
Ready to get started with 123 Baby Box? Visit this page now, fill out some details, and receive your customized box.
Related: Reheating Breastmilk: What You Need to Know
Sadly, these activities get a lot harder when you have babies and toddlers to deal with. The good news is that it’s not impossible. All you need is the best all-terrain stroller for your child.
But how do you find the best stroller? Simple: exploring this buying guide. In it, we’ll walk you through our top five picks for the best all-terrain stroller.
Did you know that newborns need to sleep eight to nine hours during the day, in addition to sleeping at night? This fact points to the importance of a comfortable stroller. Stroller time can be a great way to squeeze a quick nap in.
The multi-position recline of the Chicco Activ3 Jogging Stroller makes it extremely easy to fall asleep in. The adjustable core suspension allows you to switch between regular and rough terrain modes.
There are numerous things to get excited about the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller. For starters, it’s one of the most affordable strollers on this list. So, it’s a good pick for you if you're on a budget. On top of that, it’s also great for traveling.
The compact design means that you can easily fit it into a car. As such, it’s great for families that need to travel in automobiles with their infants. Lastly, the large tires make it an excellent fit for almost any terrain. That means you can indeed go on an expedition with it.
Related: Best Activities for 6-Month-Old to Keep Them Busy
If you have multiple kids you need to stroll, look no further than the Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon. This basket-style stroller is big enough to support two kids between the ages of five months and six years.
Or, you can fit in one child and fill the rest with equipment. This makes the all-terrain stroller an excellent option for camping and similar activities that require you to move a lot of equipment.
Do you want to avoid dragging around a heavy stroller? If so, consider investing in the Joovy Zoom Lightweight Jogging Stroller. It’s a bit on the pricier side.
But that’s because it’s made of durable and light materials. This is an excellent option if you’re a runner that enjoys going a slightly rough terrain. However, we wouldn’t recommend it for anything too heavy.
Strollers make an excellent gift for new mothers. Read this article to find thirty more gifts that new mothers will love.
If you reside in an city setting with brick roads, potholes, and large hills, consider getting the Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller. The large back wheels make it a breeze to handle these obstacles.
It’s easily foldable, which means you can squeeze it into potentially small apartments or lofts. Plus, it’s a gorgeous-looking all-terrain stroller. Because of this, it can make you stand out from some of the other parents.
Related: Baby Personality Types and Temperaments 101
When looking at all-terrain strollers, there are some features you need to look out for. First, make sure that it has large wheels. This, along with the stroller's suspension, will determine how well it can handle rough trails. Next, make sure that it’s capable of reclining.
This will help your child stay comfortable on trial. A good canopy is also essential for preventing sunburn. If you want to travel on rough terrain with your infant, we recommend using a baby sling instead of a stroller. You can learn how to use them by checking out this guide here.
Some studies have investigated whether or not strollers deprive toddlers of the physical exercise they need to grow. But you don't need to panic.
Parents didn’t recognize any connection between stroller use and physical activity. That means they were getting plenty of physical movement without the stroller even being a factor.
Related: Games for Babies: Play Time that Encourages Development
We know that doing research on toddler products can be a time-consuming process. Here at 123 Baby Box, we’re in the business of making things easier for busy parents. Part of how we do this is by making buying guide resources like this that lead you to great products.
We also offer subscription boxes that come with hand-picked baby products. Things like toys, clothing, food, and more (along with a little something for the parents) are all included in the box.
123 Baby Box makes it easy to get access to parent-tested baby products. Explore our different subscription box offerings to make your job as a parent much more effortless.
We hope this article assisted you in finding the best all-terrain stroller for your child. If you want to take your toddler on rougher trails with your stroller, you must invest in one of these products.
Taking a regular stroller out in rugged terrain can not only damage the product but also harm your baby. That’s why we recommend purchasing one of the products on this list.
They’ll ensure that your child is safe and comfortable on the bumpy paths you’re taking. They’re also great if you plan on flying with your child. ]]>The solution is a mini crib, just like a regular crib but with a reduced size and other helpful features. Sadly, not all mini cribs are created equally.
That’s why we made this buying guide for you. In it, we’ll go over the features you should look for in a mini crib and our five top picks for new parents. Your little one can get the sleep they need without breaking the bank. Let’s get started!
Obviously, when you’re shopping for a mini crib, you’re going to want to look at reviews. This will give you a much better impression of what the average parent’s experience with it is like.
But this isn’t the only factor you should consider before buying. Certain factors will depend on your living accommodations and preferences, including:
As the name suggests, the Babyletto Origami Mini Crib can easily be folded up when it’s not in use. And don’t worry about lugging it around. Golden casters make it easy to roll from room to room or into the closet for storage.
Plus, it just looks great. The clean, minimalist style will fit almost any nursery theme. The only downside? This product can be transformed into a baby twin bed. As such, you will need to buy one when they outgrow it.
Related: Nuby Kick Mats 2 Pack
One problem with many baby products is you need to get new things as your baby grows constantly. The Simmons Kids Room2Grow 2-in-1 Mini Crib is an ingenious solution to this problem. When you bring your baby back from the hospital, you can keep it in bassinet mode.
Then, when your baby exceeds fifteen pounds, it can be changed into a mattress sleep mode that’s level with the floor. It can be used this way until your baby reaches thirty-five pounds. One great thing about the bassinet is that its height is adjustable.
So you can keep it by your bed if you wish and easily reach them if they get night terrors in the middle of the night.
If you can't spend a lot of cash on your mini crib, don’t panic. The Delta Children Classic Mini Crib with Mattress is the perfect solution for you. It’s priced at $150, making it one of the more affordable items on this list.
In addition to the cost, it also comes with one of the thickest mattresses out of the products on this list. That means it’s a good option for babies that often have trouble sleeping.
Plus, this product can transition into a twin bed with a conversion kit. So it can save you even more money down the line.
Want to know what your baby should wear when you put them to sleep? This helpful guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
One thing we love about this product is the breathable mesh sides that won’t overheat babies. We also like that the mesh sides prevent arms from getting trapped and babies from getting out of their swaddles.
The only downside is that the mattress is a little thin. So if you want a thicker one, you will need to purchase that separately.
Related: White Noise for Babies: Can It Help Your Baby Sleep?
With this product, you can convert the mini crib into a day-bad, baby-sized sofa, and eventually a small twin-size bed. This versatility makes it a great option for parents with tight spaces that don’t want to constantly bring new furniture in and out of their homes or apartments.
However, remember that this mini crib doesn’t come with a mattress. As such, you’ll need to purchase that separately through the manufacturer.
Did you know that each parent spends roughly two in a half hours each day actively caring for children as their primary activity? And that doesn’t even include cooking, cleaning, and researching baby products.
Here at 123 Baby Box, we know how hectic things can get when you have a newborn in the house. As parents ourselves, we know that most new parents don’t have time to waste hours scouring through Amazon reviews of baby products.
That’s why we started a monthly subscription box that provides you with everything babies ages zero to three need. It’s a great way to take the guesswork out of finding great baby products. Each box comes with products that have all been curated and tested by actual mothers.
Interested in learning more about 123 Baby Box? Learn more about our company and the difference we’re making for parents.
Related: Subscriptions 123 Baby Box
We hope this guide helped you find some of the best options for mini cribs online. Remember that your baby’s sleeping arrangement is one of the most important considerations you can choose.
No one wants to picture their baby dying from a sleep-related incident, but this is a horrible reality for many parents. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends investing in cribs that conform to professional safety standards.
However, as long as you follow the advice in this article, you have the best chance of finding a crib option that keeps your child safe when they sleep.
]]>In 2023, there will be plenty of new techs, from video wi-fi to AI. But what are the best baby monitors in 2023? If you're an individual who wants to learn the answer to this question, you're in the right place.
This buying guide will walk you through our six picks for the best baby monitors on the market. That way, you can choose the right one for your needs. Let's get started!
We love the Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor because it delivers cutting-edge technology. Precisely, this product can monitor your child's breathing rate in real-time. And that's not all. It also comes with various white noise and lullaby selections that help your child fall asleep.
Plus, two-way audio lets you calm your child in the middle of the night without getting out of bed. Lastly, it has all of the metric tracking features that you would expect from a 2023 baby monitor.
If you want a baby monitor with many excellent features and abilities, look no further than the wi-fi monitor Nanit Pro Camera. Not only does this product come with crystal clear video and audio, but it also showcases lots of cool modes.
For example, the cameras can measure the temperature and humidity in the room and alert you when they're out of whack. What's more, it can also provide sleep metrics for your child.
Keep in mind this is one of the pricier options. Not only do you need to pay for the monitor itself, but also the subscription.
Related: Newborn Won't Sleep? Try These Tips
Finding a video baby monitor that lasts for a long time can be hard. Often they experience issues like degrading night vision over time or a steadily decreasing battery life. Luckily, the VAVA Baby Monitor addresses both of these problems.
The result is a baby monitor that's sure to last you years. It's a fantastic option if you want to have multiple kids.
Are you on a budget but still want a camera baby monitor? If so, look no further than the Wyze Cam Pan v2 1080p. The camera on this monitor isn't anything to write home about.
But it's easy to set up and provides you and your family member with a constant live stream. You can also set it up to alert you to any motion or sound.
If you don't have the money to invest in a video monitor, you can't go wrong with the classic VTech DM221 Audio Baby Monitor. This product will pick up even the most subtle noise from your nursery.
Plus, it's white noise free and comes with an indoor range of one hundred sixty feet. It's a great option for nervous parents that don't want to be glued to a video monitor all night long.
The Cubo Ai Plus Smart Baby Monitor is the product of the future. It uses artificial intelligence to monitor the room's feed. That means it can monitor any changes that occur to your baby.
This includes things when your baby rolls over on their stomach or wakes up from night terrors. Plus, the bird design is adorable and will blend in with the aesthetic of any nursery.
Related: Does your Baby Want Hands Out of Swaddle? Here's What to Do
Most parents know that babies tend to sleep a lot. In fact, the average baby sleeps between sixteen to seventeen hours per day. The problem is that babies sleep in sporadic bursts.
So, what should you do if your baby monitor reveals that your newborn isn't sleeping through the night? The answer, most of the time: is nothing.
A recent study revealed that not sleeping through the night is perfectly normal for infants. So, while it might be rough on the parent, there's nothing to worry about from a health point of view.
Does your baby experience separation anxiety whenever you're away? Read this guide to find out how you can deal with it.
You might be deciding on whether or not you should go with a video baby monitor or an audio-only model. The answer ultimately depends on the type of baby you have. If you have a baby that wakes up every hour, or you're moving them into a separate room before twelve months, we recommend a video monitor.
This will allow you to keep closer track of them. However, if you're on a budget or your baby isn't fussy, you can save some money and go the audio-only route.
Related: Co-Sleeping With a Baby: Guide & Safety Tips
Researching baby products is a hassle. Consider going with a service that does all the work for you. From baby toys to food and even gifts for mom, 123 Baby Box makes every month a pleasant surprise for parents.
123 Baby Box makes it easy to stay on top of the latest trends in baby products. Contact us today to learn more about the different types of products we offer.
No parent likes to think about it, but roughly 1,400 infants die from SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome yearly. A good baby monitor doesn't just let you know when your baby is crying.
It can alert you when a potential crisis is occurring. In this way, baby monitors have the potential to save lives. That's why you should research and invest in a good monitor.
However, if you choose one of the options on this list, you'll likely be in good shape. Also, if you want to ensure that your baby sleeps safely, make sure to check out this full CDC guide for more help.
]]>Developmental toys are a vital part of learning for newborns. But how do you find the best developmental toys for babies? Simple: exploring this buying guide!
In it, we'll go over our seven picks for developmental toys sure to stimulate your baby. That way, they can get a head start on all the learning ahead of them.
Babies need to start exercising when they're young. But they're not likely to do it on their own. The good news is that Fisher-Price Sloth Activity Socks give them a great incentive to do so. You put these sloth-shaped socks on your baby's feet.
Then, when they catch your baby's attention, they'll kick their feet and reach for them. Altogether it's a great way to encourage their motor skills while also keeping their footsies nice and warm.
Related: 10 Best Learning Activities for 2-Year-Olds
Just because your baby is too young to read doesn't mean they shouldn't get to enjoy books. The ORAPOH Jungle and Farm Tail Baby Early Education Toy is an excellent tool for them. It's basically a book that teaches them about animals by containing a small cotton toy on each page.
It's a great way to teach them about animal associations early on in the process. And you don't need to panic about leaving the baby along with it. The material is non-toxic and washable, so it's no problem if they get it in their mouth.
There aren't many developmental toys that grow along with your child. However, the Manhattan Toy Skwish Classic Rattle and Teether is one of them. When your child is an infant, they can use the toy as a teether and rattler.
Then, when they get older, the toy incorporates beads and stretchy strings into the process. This toy is great because it teaches them both fine motor skills and different colors. People looking for a versatile piece of developmental learning should search no further.
The VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker is another toy parents love because of its versatile nature. Though the product looks like it's just for walking, the panel on the toy can come off. You can set it on the ground, becoming an excellent toy for your toddler still crawling around.
When your baby can sit up and reach for things, you can place the panel back on the VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker. Then, when your baby starts to walk, they can use the toy for cruising all around the house.
Simple puzzles are a great way to start teaching your baby logic skills. However, make sure to choose a simple, twenty-four-piece one like the Disney Mickey Mouse Tower Box Puzzle. We like this puzzle because it's simple and colorful, and durable.
Plus, it features the instantly recognizable Mickey Mouse. So, it's a good way to start teaching your baby about his beloved character.
Related: Best Activities for 12-18 Month-Olds: Play Ideas to Help Build Their Developmental Skills
Think your baby will be the next big composer? Consider investing in Baby Einstein Take-Along Tunes. This toy is cute and tiny enough for babies to play with it appropriately. It features seven buttons, each playing its classical music tune.
It's an excellent way to start teaching these iconic tunes to your child. The only downside to the toy is that it does require AA batteries. So you will need to have those on hand.
Interested in exploring all of the developmental toys that 123 Baby Box offers? Check out this page to shop for some of our favorite offerings.
Tummy time is incredibly important for babies. That being said, it's still just not that fun. The Niskite Inflatable Tummy Time Water Play Mat is the solution to this problem.
You fill the mat with water; then your child lays on it. Creative shapes and aquatic toys will keep your baby engaged while they work on building important muscles.
We know that buying guides like this makes it easy to find the perfect toy for your baby. But what if there was an even easier way? That's the mindset that helped us start 123 Baby Box. We're a business full of moms that are passionate about making babies' lives better.
We do this by providing parents with monthly boxes full of mother-approved baby products. From developmental toys to little gifts for moms, there's always something to look forward to. Best of all, you save time and money by not having to research products independently.
Ready to make your life as a parent much easier? Get started with a 123 Baby Box subscription to get all the developmental toys you need.
Related: How Gender Roles Affect Child Development
There are numerous studies that point out how vital play is between parents and babies. Not only does it promote bonding, but it also aids in their development. And that's even more true if you use toys like the kind found on this list.
These toys go a long way toward teaching important recognition and motor skills. However, there's another reason you'll want to invest in developmental toys.
More research suggests that children who don't get the intellectual development that they need when they're young develop learning disabilities. This is just one more reason to invest in these types of toys.
]]>That's because different situations will require different types of winter clothing. That's why we made this guide for you. In it, we'll break down everything you'll need for your baby when the cold weather months roll around. That way, you know they're safe when you take them outside.
Many people think the hands or nose are the easiest way to tell if a baby's cold. However, the reality is that the neck is the best place to check. Is the neck nice and warm? Or is it cold? This is an excellent way to determine quickly if you're out and about.
If you're at home, then check the belly or the feet. Alternatively, you can also take their temperature. You can consult this resource to learn how to take your newborn's temperature.
There are many ways mothers keep their babies warm during the winter. However, the base layer of winter clothes you wear is always the first layer of defense. First, get a long-sleeve bodysuit for your baby.
This can either be a onesie or pants and sock pair. Make sure you invest in a good bodysuit that traps heat inside. Next, it's time to get a couple of mittens for your baby. We recommend fingerless ones because they're easier to put on.
Lastly, you'll want a good hat for trapping heat that rises from their often hairless heads. Once you get these three main elements together, you have your base layer.
From this point, you can customize it depending on what activities you plan on doing, which we'll go over in the next section.
Related: Baby Sounds Congested but Has No Mucus in Nose
When you take a baby out for a winter adventure, you want to first make sure that they have the base layer mentioned in the other section.
In addition to this, they should also put on a nice, warm fleece bunting suit. Bring an extra blanket if you're still concerned that they will be cold. You can wrap them in it if the weather takes a nasty turn.
If you're traveling with your baby by car during the winter, you will still need to dress them in a jacket or bunting. The difference between it and a carrier/stroller is the type of jacket or bunting they wear. When in a car with a baby, you don't want any puffy sort of material for the baby.
Why? Because in the event of a car accident, all of the puffy material can compress. This makes the seatbelts on your child too loose, which poses a significant risk. Fleece is a good material for car rides. You can also try bundling your baby up once they're strapped in.
Are you a new parent? If so, read this guide for five pieces of advice you can't live without.
You want to ensure that your home is warm enough. Specifically, the nursery is the most critical area for this. Install gauge control to more accurately control the temperature in the baby's room.
It would help if you were also worried about the humidity levels, which should be around 40% to 60%. An air purifier is a fantastic way to get better control of your humidity levels in the home.
As long as your home is properly heated, you shouldn't need to overdo it on the baby clothes. Doing so could cause overheating.
Related: Think Your Baby Has a Cold? Here's What to Do!
Many parents are often so scared of their baby's cold that they overdo it with winter clothing. This cannot be good if it causes your baby to overheat.
Make sure to know the primary signs of overheating. Things like red color skin, hot-to-the-touch, colics, and a fast heart rate are all indicators that you should take some of the baby's clothes off.
Ideally, by now, you know what pieces of clothing your baby needs for the winter. Unfortunately, you now need to research and find the right brands and products. If that's feeling like a big hassle, we here at 123 Baby Box understand.
That's why we curate a monthly box full of hand-picked baby products. So, if you want to receive some quality winter clothes without doing the research, we can help you out. For example, just look at these Nuby Snekz Comfortable Rubber Sole Sock Shoes that we offer.
Let 123 Baby Box worry about finding the best products for your baby. Choose one of our subscription plans to get started today.
Related: Does your Baby Want Hands Out of Swaddle? Here's What to Do
There are numerous reasons why it's worth investing in quality newborn winter clothes. Besides making your baby more comfortable, it's vital to remember that it can additionally be a life-or-death situation.
A study found that SIDS risk increases exponentially in the winter months. And a big reason for that is parents are incorrectly using more clothes and blankets to keep them warm.
If they aren't the right types of winter clothes, this can end up smothering the baby. That's why it's essential to do your research when it comes to newborn winter clothes. However, as long as you follow the advice in this article, you should be off to a good start.
]]>For example, double strollers are a great way to save space when you have twins. But how do you find the best double stroller for twins?
If you want to discover the answer to this question, you're in the right spot. In this buying guide, we'll walk you through our choices for the eight best double strollers for twins.
The main thing we love about the Contours – Options Elite Tandem Double Baby Stroller is its versatility. The unique seating options come with seven different arrangements.
So, it can adapt as your twins grow up. Plus, it's got a fantastic amount of under-seat storage. This makes it a great option for trips out to theme parks or zoos.
If you want comfort, look no further than the Chicco Cortina Together Double Stroller. The rest legs on this tandem stroller are adjustable. Plus, the car seat-compatible seats can recline at multiple angles.
That means it's an excellent option for getting the recommended seventeen hours of sleep that your babies need. It's so comfortable they'll be able to nap in the stroller.
Related: Advice for New Parents: 5 Things You Need to Know
If you want something that's quick and easy to use, look no further than the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double Stroller. The thing we love about this double stroller is how easily it can fold. The maneuverability is also incredible. The only problem is that the product can only hold one car seat.
So it's not great if you travel in the car with your infant to where you want to walk. But it's a great option if you live in the city.
If you want a more affordable version of the Contours product, make sure to check out this product. It's got quite a similar design at a lower price range.
We also recommend this model to anyone with twins that lives in a sunny environment. The excellent canopy is great at blocking out harmful UV rays.
Are you a protective parent that doesn't like your twins facing away from you? If so, the Joovy Twin Roo+ Car Seat Stroller is the right type of product for you.
With this product, your car seats clip right into the stroller. They can face you so that you never really need to take your eyes off the babies.
What should you do if you have three kids? Easy, go with the UPPAbaby VISTA V2 Stroller, which along with the rumble seat and ride-along board, is able to accommodate three kids.
It can also carry a great deal of weight and comes with a suspension system that's smooth as ice. The only problem is that it's on the pricier side of the spectrum.
Related: How Gender Roles Affect Child Development
Sadly, all double strollers are a bit on the expensive side. But if you need to save as much money as you can while still getting an affordable product, consider the Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller.
Considering you get eighteen different configurations for its price, the double stroller is a real bang for your buck. Plus, you get a lot of features that come with other high-end models.
Going on a stroller walk with your twins is a great way to bond. Read this guide to discover some other methods out there.
Does your stroller often take a beating? The Baby Trend Universal Double Snap-N-Go Stroller Frame is durable enough to withstand the roughest twins and car rides. As such, it's a good option if you want a long-lasting stroller.
The first thing you should look for is functionality in a double stroller. You want the product to be easy to use. Otherwise, getting your twins strapped in is going to be a nightmare. Next, ensure it has a canopy or some other form of infant sun protection.
That way, your twins don't get sunburnt. Next, make sure it's easily transportable. You don't want a heavy stroller when you're already lugging around two twins. It should also be straightforward to clean. Lastly, make sure it's in a style and color you like.
Related: Tummy Time: How To Get Started
As the parent of a twin, we here at 123 Baby Box know that your life can be unbelievably hectic. The average parent spends nearly three hours per day devoted strictly to raising children under six. When you have twins, that time is often doubled.
Often there aren't enough hours to get through the day. So how can you be expected to find the best baby products for your child? Our organization doesn't think you should have to.
We offer a select list of curated items, like this Nuby Baby Mini Clip-On Stroller & Car Seat Fan. We also offer monthly subscription boxes where we ship you specially selected baby supplies.
Here at 123 Baby Box, we offer parents various subscription box plans. Explore our offerings to find something that's perfect for you.
With twins, one parent will often get tasked with taking care of them during the day. Now, if you have two separate strollers, there's no way to take them out with one parent.
But with a double stroller, one parent can easily get the exercise and fresh air needed. That's why finding the best double stroller is so important for families with twins. It's going to make transportation a lot simpler to deal with.
]]>But how do you find the best baby winter hats? And what features should you pay attention to? If you want to discover the answers to these questions, then it's your lucky day.
In this guide, we'll show you five of our favorite baby winter hats and answer any questions you have about them—that way; you know exactly which one is right for your newborn.
You can go full mamma-bear by turning your toddler into a cub with the North Face Baby Bear Suave Oso Beanie. This baby winter hat is significant for two reasons.
First, it's just all sorts of adorable. Second, it has a great hook and loop chin strap for securing the hat. So if your baby is always managing to wriggle out of their hat, this is an excellent option.
If you're on a budget, look at the Simple Joys by Carter's Unisex Babies' Hat and Mitten Set. For one thing, this product is already incredibly affordable.
But, on top of that, it also comes with an included mitten set. This two-for-one deal makes this hat an excellent value for families who can't afford expensive hats.
If you want a hat that can be worn both outside and inside, then it looks no further than the Hanna Andersson Soft Alpaca Bonnet. The soft alpaca fur makes this an incredibly comfy pick.
And the lightweight nature of the bonnet means your child can quickly wear it to bed too. Plus, the fabric does an excellent job of staying intact after multiple washes. That being said, you will need to hand wash it.
Related: Really Cool Nursery Ideas for Girls!
No one can beat the classic look that comes with a trapper hat. The Hudson Baby Unisex Baby Fleece Trapper Hat and Mitten Set capture this iconic hat style for babies. This is a good option for nights that are cold but not freezing.
If you live in areas that have fierce winters, look no further than the Skida Alpine Infant Hat. People in Vermont made this hat, so you know it can withstand intense temperatures.
The fleece-lined interior ensures that the heat stays on the inside of the hat. Plus, the exterior material provides UPF 50+. So it will protect your baby's head from the sun.
If your baby doesn't wear a winter hat, there's a good chance they could catch the flu. Read this guide to learn what to do if this happens.
Related: Think Your Baby Has a Cold? Here's What to Do!
It can be challenging to know exactly what to look for in a baby winter hat. For starters, you should search for soft material. Plush fleece or alpaca wool are both excellent options. Whatever you do, avoid scratchy materials.
At worse, this can make your baby uncomfortable. But if they have extra-sensitive skin, it can be a medical hazard. Next, make sure the hat isn't too heavy. Again, this can make sure babies are uncomfortable. You also want the winter hat to be secure but not too fast.
By that, we mean it shouldn't be constricting hard enough to numb or pinch them. But it should be safe enough that it stays on and keeps the heat contained near their heads. Lastly, get a little creative with the style of the hat.
There are plenty of excellent baby winter hat designs, both handmade and factory-made. Search for one that speaks to you. You may like Disney movies and want a hat that reflects that. Or perhaps you prefer plain hats?
Regardless choose something that adds a little personality to your baby. Lastly, consider what you're going to use it for. Using a hat on a cold airplane is a lot different than one in a snowstorm. So choose accordingly.
Sometimes when you're a parent, it can feel like a neverending stream of buying products. Right now, you are researching winter baby products. Then, you'll need to do it all over again when summer rolls around. If you're tired of this monotonous grind, consider an alternative.
We started 123 Baby Box with the explicit goal of making parents' lives easier. We do this by doing all the research on baby products for you.
Then, we send you the ones that best fit your baby's needs. It's a great way to save time and cash when shopping for baby products. Plus, you're getting the best of the best!
Interested in learning more about 123 Baby Box? Explore the different subscription plans we offer to find the perfect option for your needs.
Related: Nuby, Breathe-eez Infant Nasal Aspirator
The colder temperatures aren't the only reason you want to invest in the best baby winter hats. Studies show that large amounts of heat are lost through infants' heads. The reason for this is the excess surface area of the skin.
The good news is that simply putting a hat on the baby reduces a significant amount of the dry heat that's lost. This study points toward the importance of winter hats in keeping your little ones warm during the colder weather. Remember, the comfier they are, the comfier you'll be.
]]>However, there are many styles of toddler shoes to choose from, so picking the best for walking and playing can take time and effort.
We’ve hand-picked the 5 best toddler shoes for walking and playing that they can wear in style and comfort.
Related: 10 Best Learning Activities for 2 Year Olds
Here are our five best shoes for your toddler for walking and playing.
The Ryder II FlexiRun is lightweight and comfortable. The FlexiRun outsole is flexible and provides excellent cushioning, while the padded tongue and collar keep little feet cozy.
Felix & Flora Toddler, Little Girl Mary Jane Dress Shoes are versatile shoes that are great for daily wear indoors and outdoors.
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The Cat & Jack Toddler Denver Winter Boots are perfect for days when your toddler needs to walk and play in the snow and rain. They’re waterproof and lined, so their feet will stay warm and dry!
Ten Little designed their Everyday Sandals closed-toe sandals specifically for children’s feet.
The adidas Unisex-Child Grand Court Tennis Shoes are sporty and stylish for your active toddler.
Related: Learning to Share - 8 Things Parents Should Do
Toddlers need comfortable, supportive, and appropriate shoes for their age and activities.
When choosing shoes for toddlers, it is crucial to consider the following factors:
Toddler shoes should fit well, with enough room for the toes to move and the foot to grow. They should also have a secure fit, with adjustable laces or straps.
Look for hook-and-loop and velcro straps that fit snugly but also make it easy to put them on and take off their feet.
Toddler shoes should provide adequate support for the foot and ankle, especially when walking and playing.
Support features can include cushioned insoles, arch support, and reinforced heels.
Toddler shoes should withstand the wear and tear of daily activities, including running, jumping, and climbing.
Look for shoes made of durable materials that can withstand rough treatment.
Toddler shoes should be appropriate for the child’s age and stage of development.
For example, infants and younger toddlers may need softer, flexible shoes, while older toddlers may be ready for more structured shoes with more support.
Toddler shoes should be stylish and fun so that children are excited to wear them. Look for shoes with fun colors and designs that will appeal to toddlers.
It’s also great to consider the right style for the weather.. Look for shoes made of waterproof materials for rainy days and lined ones for chilly ones.
When it comes to toddler shoes for walking and playing, several classic styles are stylish and functional.
Sneakers are a classic choice for toddlers, with their comfortable fit and supportive design. Look for sneakers with padded soles and reinforced heels for extra support.
Sandals are a fantastic option for warm weather, providing ventilation for the feet and making it easy on and off. Look for sandals with adjustable straps for a secure fit, and avoid sandals with heels or other unstable features.
Boots are a versatile option for toddlers, providing warmth and protection in cooler weather. Look for boots with cushioned soles and sturdy construction for added support.
Mary Janes are a classic style of toddler shoe with a strap that goes across the foot for a secure fit. Look for Mary Janes with a low heel and cushioned soles for added comfort.
Do you want to turbocharge your baby’s development? Click here to get the baby box parents and babies love!
Once your toddler gets on their feet and starts walking and playing, it can be hard to keep up with them!
It would be best if you found shoes that fit correctly, have plenty of support for their growing feet, are durable, and are in a style that appeals to your toddler.
Sneakers, sandals, boots, and Mary Janes are classic shoes that are fashionable and designed for a toddler’s active life.
Take time to find shoes that your toddler will love for walking and playing in style and comfort!
Related: 8 Ways to Nurture a Curious Child: Stimulate Their Mind
]]>Sleep is a huge topic for new parents. We're usually discussing the length, quality, and schedule of sleep. We are preoccupied with how much sleep young babies and their parents get - with good reason. But today, we're talking about sleep apparel for your baby. These sleep sacks aren't fashion accessories; they are functional. Sleep sacks can improve the quality and length of sleep your little one is getting.
Sleep sacks do an excellent job of keeping your baby warm and cozy while they nap or sleep at night. The sense of security they provide can help your baby establish a consistent sleep schedule.
Also called a 'wearable blanket,' sleep sacks can be used from your baby's newborn stage right up to their early toddler years.
Related: Co-Sleeping With a Baby: Guide & Safety Tips
So, which is best, sleep sacks or swaddling? Consider swaddling when your baby is still a newborn. Swaddling is wrapping your baby firmly in a blanket to soothe them. Swaddles simulate the gentle constriction of the womb and are safe and effective until your baby is about three months old. At this age, your baby may begin to wriggle out of the swaddle or be agitated by it. This technique of wrapping your baby in a blanket for swaddling is easy to learn, and with some practice, you can master it.
But if you choose sleep sacks, you can avoid learning to swaddle. A sleep sack is like a baby's sleeping bag or wearable blanket that provides them with ample leg space but zips up or is velcroed. You can forgo loose blankets that your baby may kick off while they sleep.
Here are some features of the swaddle:
Here are some features of the sleep sack:
Looking for the best baby products to support your baby's development? Find out about our subscription baby boxes at 123 Baby Box.
There are many types and styles of sleep sacks on the market. Here are a few, along with their benefits.
Swaddle-styled sleep sacks are the best of both worlds. You put a sleep sack on your baby that has added fabric flaps. With this fabric, you can wrap the baby securely around their upper body. These aren't safe once your baby can roll over unless you keep their arms free.
These allow your baby to keep their arms free while sleeping and also allow you to change their diaper without removing the sack. The sleeveless sleep sacks usually have zippered enclosures, making it easy to put them on and off. And since their arms are free, this kind of sleep sack can be used after your baby can roll over on their own.
Weighted sleep sacks are a relatively new product for babies. While some believe them to be unsafe, with a bit of care, they do have some benefits. The added weight can increase your baby's comfort, warmth, and relaxation while decreasing stress and distraction. All of this will allow them to sleep without hindrance.
Related: Does your Baby Want Hands Out of Swaddle? Here's What to Do
As you shop for a sleep sack, here are a few more points to consider:
Here are the five best sleep sacks:
This sleep sack has a sleeveless design and an inverted zipper for easier diaper changes. Although this brand has several styles of sleep sacks, this one is sleeveless, making it best for babies who can roll over. It is available in sizes small up to extra large (0 to 24 months). For colder weather, they have a fleece sack.
This sleep sack is for newborns who like to sleep with their arms up while lying on their backs. This is a hybrid as it combines a sack and swaddles. So, your baby can enjoy the security of the swaddle while having their legs free to wiggle. Once your baby can roll over, you should transition them to an arms-out sack.
This sack is made of a quilted material with shoulder snaps that make it easier to put on. The Sleep Nest Teddy can last your newborn until they're 36 months old. The quilting makes it a warm and comfortable item, especially in winter.
This 100% cotton sleep sack has a weighted component in the chest for adding comfortable pressure. That gentle pressure can be felt like a parent's hand resting on their chest. There are two sets of buttons for adjusting the size, and the bottom is enclosed with a zipper to ease diaper changes.
This innovative sleep bag is made of rayon of bamboo. It is very soft and gentle on your baby's delicate skin. These have a double zipper for easier diaper changes and are available in sizes S, M, and L - for babies from 0 to 36 months.
Related: Things Every New Parent Should Know About Newborn Sleep
Would you like a regular treat box for your baby? Learn all about our baby subscription boxes at 123 Baby Box.
]]>We put together this list of the 10 best convertible car seats for safe travel that fit any family’s needs.
Related: 10 Tips for Traveling with an Infant Car Seat
A convertible car seat is one that you can use with different-sized children that you can convert from rear to forward-facing.
You’ll start with the convertible car seat in a rear-facing position for infants and toddlers that you can turn to forward-facing as they grow older.
A good car seat can last from when your child is a baby into preschool.
Let’s look at the 10 best convertible car seats for safe travel for your little ones.
There’s a lot to like about the Chicco NextFit Zip Convertible Sport Car Seat, as it fits easily into most cars and is moderately priced.
Want to learn more about 123 Baby Boxes and get freebies and discount codes? Click here to learn About Us and sign-up for our newsletter!
The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat is affordable, easy to install, and an excellent choice for smaller vehicles.
The Britax One4Life ClickTight All-In-One Convertible Car Seat can give up to ten years of use and is simple to install.
Related: 10 Best Learning Activities for 2 Year Olds
The Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is the bestselling seat with Babylist parents that you can use for years.
The Evenflo Gold Revolve360 Rotating Convertible Car Seat is one of the first rotating car seats to hit the US Market. Rotating car seats let you swivel from rear to front-facing at the click of a button.
The Peg Perego Primo Viaggio is an excellent convertible car seat with a narrow footprint that is perfect for smaller cars or crowded back seats.
If you need to go three-wide, or don’t have a lot of room in your backseat, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is an excellent choice.
The Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is an excellent, safe convertible car seat with a great price tag.
The Century Drive On 3-in-1 Car Seat goes from rear to front-facing and can be used later as a booster seat. It’s lightweight and easy to move back and forth between cars.
The Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One Convertible car seat is perfect for taller babies because it’s so spacious. This is one super comfortable car seat with a lot of comfy padding!
Do you want to turbocharge your baby’s development? Click here to get the baby box parents and babies love!
Parents love convertible car seats because they can use them to safely hold and secure their children from infants until they are small children.
Convertible car seats come in a wide variety of sizes that can be used in the backseats of any automobile and have materials that are easy to remove and clean.
Children grow at different rates. Convertible car seats allow you to customize your car seats to ensure your children are safe and secure when traveling.
Take the time to research a convertible car seat that can ensure your child travels safely, in style, and comfortably!
Related: Tips for Flying with a Baby Every Parent Needs to Know
]]>The problem with electronic toys is that they don't stimulate learning by engaging children to experiment with the world around them. It's easy to put a tablet in front of your toddler and let them entertain themselves for hours. But, this may be hurting them more than you realize.
Toys that allow children to hold and touch will enable them to imagine, play and learn. This is the purpose of Montessori toys, allowing children to manipulate learning through play. These toys also help children develop soft skills such as independence, adaptability, and fairness.
But, many parents don't know anything about Montessori toys or the concept of Montessori education. So, where did these toys come from, and how are they beneficial to your child?
Keep reading to help you find more about these toys and everything you need to know about Montessori education. We'll also provide the ten best Montessori toys for babies and toddlers!
Related: Best Activities for 12-18 Month-Olds: Play Ideas to Help Build Their Developmental Skills
Montessori education is a teaching methodology that encourages students to take ownership of their learning. It was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician, educator, and innovator in 1907.
In Montessori classrooms, children are allowed a lot of freedom to explore and create while interacting with specially designed materials. With learning activities tailored to the individual, kids can work at their own pace and pursue topics that interest them while the teacher acts more as a guide than a dictator.
Montessori education also emphasizes social skills and collaboration, so kids learn how to work together quickly & enjoyably. All-in-all, Montessori education is about helping children develop vital life skills like autonomy and exploration to become confident and successful adults.
Babies and toddlers learn best through exploration, immersion, and repetitive activities, which is exactly what Montessori toys offer! They foster self-learning and allow children to practice creative thinking by pushing buttons, twisting dials, and sliding objects from one place to another.
This type of play encourages cognitive skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and concentration. In addition, these toys' sheer variety of textures also stimulates sensory development by introducing children to taste, sight, sound, movement, balance, and more. As such, it's easy to see why Montessori toys should be incorporated into everyday playtime for babies and toddlers alike - they can maximize their immersive learning.
Also, if you need help finding the right products matching your child’s age, consider a subscription with 123 Baby Box!
Related: Cognitive Development Theory: How Parents Can Support It
Now that you know more about the concept and need for Montessori toys, let's figure out which ones are perfect to buy for your little one. Below are the best Montessori toys for babies and toddlers.
It's an old-fashioned toy, but stacking rings are perfect for babies since they can chew on them, and it's safe for them to do so. Also, many rings are colorful, allowing babies to learn different colors.
Finally, as they become toddlers, they can learn different combinations, patterns, and shape recognition. Consider this one if you're looking for a stack ring set to buy your baby.
Through wooden puzzles, babies and toddlers can practice problem-solving skills and learn how to self-correct. In addition, the process of organizing, categorizing, and arranging the pieces in a puzzle improves your child's spatial awareness.
With practice, they will conduct fewer trials and errors and begin to plan ahead, thinking abstractly about how the pieces will fit together. This wooden hexagon puzzle will help your child learn shapes, colors, and problem-solving skills!
An activity cube is perfect for keeping your child entertained for hours. But it'll also help your child develop essential skills they'll use for a lifetime. For example, your baby or toddler will develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
Also, the activity cube will encourage them to recognize different shapes and colors while developing problem-solving skills. This activity cube is the perfect addition to your child's toy box.
Every child loves to play with toys that can zoom across the room, and a fire truck is perfect for them. In addition, the pop-up fire truck encourages children to learn counting and color recognition. The pop-up fire truck by the original toy company is the perfect Montessori toy for your little one.
A stacking pegboard is a perfect toy to help children improve their memory skills. They can determine which toy goes in which spot through trial and error.
In addition, your child will strengthen their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Kid's Corner Stacking Peg Board will surely succeed in helping your child improve these essential skills.
Blocks are an essential toy that helps children learn shapes and develop different skills. Some skills they can gain from playing with blocks include creativity, fine motor, and intellectual.
Children are also able to build long-lasting friendships when playing with blocks. In addition, your little one will become confident in themselves as they create the tallest building in the world. If you're looking for a building block for your baby or toddler, this one from Melissa & Doug is perfect for them.
Before taking your toddler to the lake to go fishing for real, let them play with a Montessori toy first. A magnetic fishing game is perfect for helping your child improve their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
In addition, they'll enjoy catching the little fish for hours while pretending to be a real fisherman. The Wooden Magnetic Fishing Game by Nashrio will help them learn colors, numbers, and letters.
Another Montessori toy that your child will love is a wooden car ramp. The toy allows them to play as a race car driver and engage in imaginary play.
In addition, your child will develop fine motor skills while learning about physics actions and reactions. Wood City's car ramp is the perfect toy for a toddler who loves to be the driver!
Babies benefit from stacking toys because they learn how to pick up objects, control their fingers, and develop grasp and release skills. As your child grows into a toddler, they can learn how to count numbers, different shapes, and the letters of the alphabet.
Some stacking toys may only include one subject, such as learning numbers. But, others may consist of different shapes, numbers, and letters.
This one by Qzmtoy is perfect if you're looking for a stacking toy with numbers and shapes. In addition, your child will be able to learn basic math skills such as adding and subtracting.
A busy board is an excellent tool for parents to be hands-on with their children in learning and playing. Your child will develop fine motor skills, counting skills, and develop hand-eye coordination. In addition, your baby or child can develop problem-solving skills when playing with a busy board.
The busy board by Smarttwo will teach your child different days of the week, seasons, and months. Also, the board allows your child to practice using a zipper, tying strings, and different gears.
Related: Games for Babies: Play Time that Encourage Development
If you are looking for toys stimulating your child's development, look no further than Montessori Toys. These 10 best Montessori toys for babies and toddlers are sure to engage and entertain your little one while promoting learning.
The ten sought-after toys are perfect for developing cognitive skills, fine motor skills, and more. So watch your little one's eyes light up when they open their new toy!
]]>What are the most amazing water toys for toddlers?
We put together this guide of the most amazing water toys for toddlers that are fun and great for their development.
Related: Cognitive Development Theory - How Parents Can Support It
Let’s look at our picks for the most fantastic water toys for toddlers!
The kiddie pool is a summertime classic that toddlers love! They are inexpensive and easy to set up in the morning and break down at the end of the day.
A kiddie pool is an inflatable plastic pool that comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Most kiddie pools are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and can be blown up manually or with an air pump.
Once your kiddie pool is filled with cool water from the hose, you and your toddlers can have fun in the sun!
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Not only are water tables tons of fun, but they also offer an immersive sensory experience for toddlers.
Water tables can help toddlers improve their fine and gross motor skills, grasp cause and effect, improve hand-eye coordination, and even understand STEM concepts like gravity!
If you have a water table, you can have multiple toddlers play together to practice turn–taking and sharing to help develop their social skills.
Look for water tables with fun features like spinners, chutes, and scoops, or add your bath toys.
Water sprinklers for kids have come a long way from simply amok running through your regular lawn sprinkler.
Today’s water sprinklers come in super fun shapes like dinosaurs, rainbows, and unicorns and fun, bright colors.
Water sprinklers are easy to set up and break down, and clean. They can be relatively inexpensive compared to other water toys.
Sprinklers designed for toddlers are also safe and can reduce tripping and other hazards from jumping over regular yard sprinklers.
Splash pads are an innovative take on sprinklers that can be hours of fun for toddlers to enjoy on hot summer days.
You can set up a splash pad in a snap by attaching your water hose, turning it on, and letting it do all the work. If you’re lucky, you might not even get wet yourself!
Toddlers love to slip and slide on splash pads, and a splash pad’s low profile allows them to do it safely. Splash pads are also easy to clean and put away after you’re done frolicking for the day.
Related: How Gender Roles Affect Child Development
If you’ve got the room and the budget, a backyard splash park can keep your toddlers entertained from sun up until sundown.
You can also have multiple toddlers enjoy them at the same time. Most come with cool features like waterslides, water guns, and ball hoops so toddlers can play games alone or in groups.
Most will come with pumps to do all the inflating work for you. Then, attach a garden hose, and your backyard splash park will be up and running.
Without the slip-and-slide, no list of amazing water toys for toddlers would be complete. A Slip and slide is an excellent way to get your toddlers out and active on lazy summer days.
A slip-and-slide can come in shapes and sizes for children of any age and yards of any size.
A basic slip-and-slide is a long thin piece of plastic laid out on the yard that, when made wet, becomes slippers allowing you to slide down the length of it.
Some slip and slides have small pools for kiddies to slide into at the end of the run.
Most toddlers love splashing around in the water. Whether running through a sprinkler, sitting in a kiddie pool, or playing in the tub. Why?
Water stimulates a child’s senses of sight, sound, and touch and can be quite calming. Plus, it’s a fun way for kids to learn through playing either alone or with other children.
Yes, playing in the water is good for toddlers because it helps develop their fine and gross motor skills, fitness, and sensory exploration.
Splashing, carrying, and pouring water can also help them begin to understand STEM concepts like gravity, weight, and volume.
Children can also spend extended amounts of time in the water, which can help them with focus and concentration as they lose themselves in their activity.
Supervising them constantly while playing is the best way to make water toys safe for your child.
Check the water temperature and surfaces your toddler’s skin comes in contact with to ensure they don’t get burned.
Look for water toys designed for toddlers that reduce the risk of slipping and tripping.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and storing the water toy after use.
Do you want to turbocharge your baby’s development? Click here to get the baby box parents and babies love!
Water toys are a great way to get your toddler outside and active, but they are also amazing for their development.
Water toys can help your toddler develop hand-eye coordination, introduce them to STEM concepts, explore their senses, and develop gross and fine motor skills.
There’s a wide range of water toys to choose from that can fit any toddler’s needs and parent’s budgets. They can also be set up easily in almost any sized yard.
It would be best if you constantly supervised your toddler when they are playing with water toys.
You’ll also want to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and storing recommendations, so they don’t get moldy and icky between use.
So go outside and get your toddler playing with water toys and watch them have tons of fun while they learn!
]]>When your baby is ready to be fed, you want that bottle ready to go quickly. This is where having a bottle warmer comes in handy. You can forgo the longer, more involved process of heating a bottle on the stovetop or microwave. Read on to find the best brands of bottle warmers currently on the market.
Related: Co-Sleeping With a Baby: Guide & Safety Tips
So, what exactly is a bottle warmer, and how do you choose a good one? A bottle warmer is a device used (usually electric) that can quickly and safely warm your baby's bottle or food. Ideally, the warmer will heat the milk to a safe temperature that your baby can drink immediately. This is the main drawback of stove top or microwave warming, where achieving an optimal temperature without the milk getting too hot is difficult.
Here are some considerations when purchasing a bottle warmer:
After some research, we have found some of the best bottle warmers currently on the market.
For convenience, the Baby's Brew bottle warmer is unbeatable. This brand's device is portable and designed to work with almost every bottle. You only need to twist, press, and shake. This bottle warmer is uniquely battery-powered and can keep the bottle warm for up to 4 hours. This is a huge benefit because it takes at least one thing off your mind. You can take your bottles wherever you go and not worry about how to warm them or keep them warm.
Additionally, the Baby's Brew has the following features:
Related: What Is Cluster Feeding and Is It Right for My Baby?
Would you like a great baby subscription box? Visit 123 Baby Box to learn more.
If speed is your most significant consideration, the Philips Avent Fast Baby Bottle Warmer is the one for you. The design of this device is simple, with one large button to push and a dial knob for temperature selection. It can heat 5 ounces of milk in less than three minutes and maintain that heat for up to an hour. The wide mouth of this device can accommodate all sizes of bottles, in addition to baby food jars and pouches.
This bottle warmer is compact and accurately detects the starting temperature of the milk before it warms it to a designated temperature.
The Avent Fast bottle warmer features:
Parenthood is an expensive business. So, if the price is your biggest consideration, the First Years 2-in-1 Simple Serve Bottle Warmer is perfect for you. At under $20, this warmer still manages to provide quality service. It can be used to warm milk or baby food jars in only minutes and is safer and faster than more conventional methods.
This device can hold most non-glass baby bottles that are straight, narrow, angled, wide-necked, or disposable bottles. You can sanitize your baby's pacifiers in this warmer, and it shuts off automatically when the milk is warmed.
If you're always on the go or love long road trips, you might enjoy the Miniland Portable Bottle Warmer. This device distinguishes itself by being portable and for use only in your car. It uses high-temperature steam to heat the milk or baby food or to sterilize the bottles.
This bottle warmer automatically calculates how long it will take to warm the contents from its starting temperature and will automatically shut off before overheating. The Miniland Portable bottle warmer can keep your baby's bottle warm or cold, it's easy to clean, and can fit easily in your baby bag.
Related: Formula vs. Breast Milk: What Choice is Right for Your Baby?
If you enjoy gadgets with more tech, you'll love the Baby Brezza Safe and Smart Bottle Warmer. This device has features like Bluetooth technology to let you to control it from your phone. It has the option to defrost along with two heat settings, automatic shut-off, and it can warm baby food jars and pouches as well as bottles of various sizes.
Smart technology makes this device a financial investment, but a worthy one.
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]]>Are you bringing home a new baby and looking at getting a bassinet? Do you need help with what to look for in a bassinet?
We've put together this guide for choosing the best baby bassinet for a newborn baby that perfectly fits the needs of any family.
Related: Co-Sleeping With a Baby - Guide & Safety Tips
A bassinet is a bed specifically designed for newborns that are typically placed next to your bed for easy access to your baby all night. Bassinets also provide your newborn with a smaller, safe space for them to rest comfortably.
Bassinets are often oval-shaped, have cloth or mesh sides, and can move around easily.
The base of a bassinet is typically around the level of an average adult's waistline, which can make picking up and laying down a baby easy.
You can use a bassinet from when you bring your baby home from the hospital until they can push up on their hands, move around, or rollover. Babies can generally do this between three and five months old.
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Here are our picks for the best bassinets for a newborn baby.
The BABYBJORN Cradle is a gender-neutral bassinet that is lightweight and stylish. Its gentle rocking motion can help you lull your infant back to sleep, and you'll know when they are getting fussy when it starts rocking!
The Fisher-Price Soothing Motions Bassinet is modern and has nifty built-in features. This bassinet has a gentle nightlight, vibrates soothingly, and plays chill music to keep your infant entertained until they fall asleep.
The HALO Baby Bassinest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 is the perfect choice if you're looking to sleep with your baby close to you. It has an adjustable stand and is see-through, so you can easily keep an eye on your little one.
Related: Things Every New Parent Should Know About Newborn Sleep
The Chicco LullaGo Portable Bassinet is lightweight, mobile, easy to set up, and comes with a tote back so you can take it with you when you travel.
The UPPAbaby Bassinet for Vista or Cruz is a stroller attachment that you can use with select Vista and Cruz strollers. In addition, you can buy a stand to clip the bassinet into, and it's approved for overnight sleeping!
The Dream On Me Lotus Bedside Sleeper is budget-friendly and can easily be adjusted to four different heights. It also has mesh side panels so you can view your newborn easily.
You should not put objects into a bassinet that can increase your baby's risk of strangulation, suffocation, or entrapment.
Items you should not put into a bassinet include:
A baby can sleep in a bassinet until they reach around 15-20 pounds or when they can start to roll around or sit up on their own. Babies typically reach this stage between four to six months old.
It's also a good idea to look at the manufacturer's directions, as many modern bassinets have recommended weight limits.
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Bassinets placed in the bedroom with their parents are the safest option for babies, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Bassinets come in many different styles and have features that can appeal to a wide range of babies and parents. There are lightweight travel ones, bassinets with soothing features, and sturdy ones that offer an alternative to cribs.
You might not use a bassinet for long, but the sense of security it can provide for you and your baby makes them well worth the investment.
Take the time to list your needs for a bassinet and choose the one that's right for you and your baby.
Related: White Noise for Babies - Can It Help Your Baby Sleep?
]]>Their young brains are developing quickly at this time as well. Your little son can recognize shapes and patterns, pick up items, and understand object permanence - that when something is hidden, it still exists. So, your child will enjoy bright, colorful pop-up toys, fill-and-empty games, and toys they can build up and knock down again.
Since your child is exploring the world, mobility is essential. So, push, pull, and ride-on toys are also a great hit. They will also love noisy moving toys.
Related: Best Activities for 12-18 Month-Olds: Play Ideas to Help Build Their Developmental Skills
The toys you choose for your little son aren't just for his enjoyment but also for his development. His toys should be well-made, purposeful, and safe for him to use. Here are things for you to consider when choosing his toys.
Following are the best toys that meet safety and developmental standards, and of course, most important of all, your son will love them.
This classic, well-made, colorful, intriguing toy will get (and keep) your son's attention. The cube has five play surfaces providing a variety of activities. Activities include a wire maze, sliding knobs, spinning blocks, small doors to open and close, and rolling blocks. The corners of this solid wood toy are curved to prevent injury. Your son can enjoy practicing his hand-eye coordination, matching skills, and observing cause and effect.
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Several toy-makers have made some variation of this classic open-ended toy. The simple concept of these cups makes them an excellent toy for a curious one-year-old. They are large enough to grasp securely and colorful enough to attract your son's attention. The cups may be stacked, knocked down, or hit together to make happy sounds.
These cups are BPA and phthalate-free, dishwasher-safe, and inexpensive. They can be used along with other developmental toys and will last your child for many years.
Related: Learning to Share: 8 Things Parents Should Do
Here is another old-time classic plastic set of toys. Your young son can stack the blocks, sort, match, and learn to distinguish colors and shapes. This set can be an enjoyable toy for your child from six months of age. The construction materials of the container and shapes are plant-based and easy to keep clean.
The Rock-a-Stack has large colorful rings of varying sizes to be stacked on the toy. Their simplicity makes them useful for all kinds of play activities, and years from now, you'll still have a few of those rings in your son's toy box.
This toy book is full of activities to enhance physical and intellectual development for the more precocious one-year-old boy. This interactive book has six double-sided, touch-sensitive pages. Your son can touch words and hear the word spoken and also hear sound effects and sound bites about animals, colors, food, outside, opposites, clothes, vehicles, and the human body. They can practice fine motor skills and become familiar with letters and numbers. The sound bites are available in two languages - English and French.
Does your son seem to love household activities? This learning vacuum will delight them. While your son mimics his parents, he is actually learning many functional skills. He can push it around the room as it plays learning songs and phrases that will expand his vocabulary.
Now that your son has become more mobile and enjoys standing while holding onto things, he will love the Around the Town Learning Table. The tabletop is divided into four play zones: a puppy house, zoo, farm, and market. The sections contain various activities that allow your son to flip switches, push buttons, spin toys, etc. There are lights and sounds, a toy phone, and three stages to adapt to your son's development. Your child can enjoy this toy for years.
While your little boy crawls on the floor, they often love pushing around small cars. The LUKAT set consists of four small but chunky colorful cars. When your son learns to use the friction feature to push the car, they'll enjoy seeing how fast it can go. In the cars, the character's heads and legs will bob up and down.
These cars are made of non-toxic, eco-friendly, and durable ABS plastic. There are no sharp edges to injure your child, and these toys do not require batteries.
Your son may practice his hand-eye coordination and stimulate his imagination.
Related: What is Child Development? How Can Parents Help Foster It?
We don't have to tell you how much your young son loves to play. The toys you purchase for him should be safe, age-appropriate, and developmentally sound. Choose high-quality toys that will help him grow in his curiosity and desire to learn.
Would you like to build your baby’s developing brain? Our new baby subscription box has brain-building products and essentials hand-picked by our experts for your baby. Visit 123 Baby Box for more information.]]>However, so many gifts are available that picking the right one for a one-year-old can be challenging.
We’ve compiled this list of the best gifts for a one-year-old for fun and play that can also aid their development.
Related: Let's Get Physical! - 14 Infant Exercises You Can Do at Home
When choosing gifts for a one-year-old, it is essential to consider the child’s interests, abilities, and developmental stage.
Here are ten ideas for gifts that can provide fun and play for a one-year-old.
Stuffed animals can provide comfort and companionship for a one-year-old and can also be used in imaginative play.
When one-year-olds play with stuffed animals, they practice grasping, holding, and experiencing different textures.
Playing with stuffed animals can also help children grow into responsible pet owners. In addition, role-play activities like grooming, walking, and feeding can help them prepare for adopting a real-life pet.
Look for stuffed animals with soft, durable materials and age-appropriate sizes.
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Blocks are a classic toy for a one-year-old, providing opportunities for stacking, building, and imaginative play.
When constructing objects with blocks, a one-year-old can become engrossed in the process, which can help them increase their attention span.
Playing with blocks is also an excellent way to develop fine and gross motor skills as they manipulate and move the blocks.
Blocks can also help one-year-olds grasp STEM concepts like cause and effect.
Look for blocks with bright colors and exciting textures for added interest.
Push toys, such as wagons and push cars, can provide a fun way for a one-year-old to explore their surroundings and improve their gross motor skills.
When a baby pushes a toy along the floor, they build muscles in their hands, wrists, arms, and legs. Pushing a toy can also help them practice balancing and help them develop their coordination.
Look for push toys with sturdy construction and easy-to-grip handles.
Musical toys, such as xylophones and drums, can provide a fun way for a one-year-old to explore sound and rhythm.
Playing with musical toys appeals to a baby’s natural curiosity as they explore the different sounds they can make to express their creativity.
Holding onto musical toys can be tricky for little fingers. However, playing with musical toys is an excellent way to hone their gross and fine motor skills as they learn to hold and play with them correctly.
Look for musical toys with a range of sounds and easy-to-use features.
Related: Parallel Play - Using Playtime to Encourage Social Development
Books can provide a fun and interactive way for a one-year-old to explore language, develop reading skills, and learn about the world and different cultures.
Reading books to and with babies is a great way to spark their curiosity and imagination. Books can also help your baby develop concentration, focus, communication, and social skills.
Look for books with bright colors, simple words, good rhythm and rhyme, and engaging illustrations.
A play mat can provide a comfortable and safe space for a one-year-old to play with soft materials and interesting textures and shapes.
Play mats can help babies improve their visual perception, gross motor skills, and self-awareness.
Your child can use a playmate to safely improve basic physical movements like crawling, jumping, walking, and dancing.
Look for play mats with built-in toys and activities for added interest.
Bath toys can provide a fun and engaging way for a one-year-old to play and explore in the bath.
Bathtime and bath toys are great ways for babies to spend more time with their parents and siblings to help build stronger bonds.
Touching and grasping their bath toys and splashing water can help improve their motor skills.
They can help their language development by identifying and learning bath toys’ names, colors, and shapes as they play with them.
Look for bath toys with different textures, colors, and sounds for added interest.
Sensory toys, such as balls with different textures and shapes, can provide a fun way for a one-year-old to explore their senses and develop their fine motor skills.
Playing with sensory toys can help a baby’s cognitive growth, encourage experimentation, and improve social interactions.
Holding, lifting, pushing, or pulling sensory toys can also help with a child’s proprioception, which is the awareness of their body parts and where they are in relation to one another.
Look for sensory toys with a variety of interesting features and safe materials.
Dress-up clothes, such as hats, scarves, and shoes, can provide a fun way for a one-year-old to engage in imaginative play.
Playing dress-up also helps babies develop their communication and thinking skills. Getting dressed up and playing with an adult or another child also helps them with sharing, cooperation, and teamwork.
Putting on and taking off dress-up clothes also helps them with balance and coordination.
Look for dress-up clothes with durable materials and easy-to-use features.
A play kitchen can provide a fun and interactive way for a one-year-old to explore role-playing and imaginative play.
Playing “kitchen” lets kids practice their motor skills by grasping and using small utensils and accessories.
Pretend kitchen play engages young ones in storytelling and communicating with others. It can also help develop their critical thinking as they play out different scenarios.
Look for play kitchens with realistic features and safe materials.
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Finding the best gift for a one-year-old to have fun and play with can be challenging. One-year-olds are getting too advanced for their baby toys but aren’t ready for big kid toys.
One-year-olds are developing rapidly, and they can play with many toys that can be fun to play with and help their development.
Playing with toys has many benefits, including improving their gross and fine motor skills, increasing creativity, and developing communication and social skills.
A big part of finding a fun gift for a one-year-old is understanding things that fascinate and interest them. So it’s a great idea to provide them with a wide range of toys to engage them.
Toys and playtime provide an excellent opportunity for fun but also to aid their development as they grow.
Related: Games for Babies: Play Time that Encourage Development
]]>Tula and Ergo have excellent products, so you might wonder which is the better baby carrier.
We’ve put together this buyer’s guide to help you decide between Tula and Ergo, the better baby carrier, for style and comfort.
Related: What is Child Development? How Can Parents Help Foster It?
A baby carrier can provide several benefits for both parents and babies.
For parents, a baby carrier can free up their hands, allowing them to move around more easily and perform daily tasks.
This can be especially helpful for parents with other children to care for, as a baby carrier allows them to keep their baby close while attending to their other responsibilities.
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A baby carrier can provide a sense of security and comfort for babies. Being close to their parent’s bodies can help calm a fussy baby, and the carrier’s gentle rocking motion can help lull them to sleep. Baby carriers can also help to promote bonding and attachment between parent and baby.
In addition, using a baby carrier can also be beneficial for a baby’s development. Being in a baby carrier allows a baby to see and experience the world from a different perspective, which can help to stimulate their senses and promote their cognitive development.
It can also encourage them to use their muscles, which can help to support their physical development.
Tula is a brand that offers different styles of carriers for parents with different needs.
Tula baby carriers start at around 140 dollars for Free-toGrow and Standard carriers, while larger Toddler models are about $170.
Let’s look at some of the more popular Tula baby carrier models.
The Baby Tula Free to Grow Carrier is lightweight and breathable yet still gives you and your baby all the support you’ll need.
It has a waistband pocket and a removable hood that provides excellent sun protection and privacy when breastfeeding.
Sometimes your toddler may still want to be carried. The Tula Toddler Carrier lets you comfortably front or back-carry your 25 to 60-pound toddler.
It also comes with a handy pocket for storing small items.
The Multi-Position is one of Tula’s most popular baby carriers and comes in many cute patterns.
Related: Let's Get Physical! - 14 Infant Exercises You Can Do at Home
Ergo offers a wide range of baby carriers and is one of the market’s most popular and awarded brands.
The Omni 360 starts at about $180, the 360 at $160, and the Original at $120.
Let’s look at some of the more popular Ergo baby carrier models.
This Ergo Omni 360 is one carrier that does it all! It’s made with 100% premium cotton, so it’s soft, cozy, and comfortable.
The Omni 360 also allows you to carry your baby inward, front out, hip, and on your back. It also comes with a large removable storage pouch.
The Ergobaby 360 is made with lightweight and breathable mesh for all-day comfort. It also has padded lumbar back support and shoulder straps for extra support.
You can carry your baby in any position in the 360, hip, back, inward, and front outward. The 360 also has a UPF baby hood for privacy and sun protection.
The Ergo Original Baby Carrier comes with a padded waist belt and cushioned shoulder straps to help evenly distribute your child’s weight.
You can front inward carry, hip carry, and back carry using the Ergo Original, and it’s machine washable.
Do you want to turbocharge your baby’s development? Click here to get the baby box parents and babies love!
Tula and Ergo make excellent baby carriers, but the best one, in the end, is going to be the one that suits your style and needs.
Tula baby carriers are slightly less expensive, but they come in a wide variety of fantastic patterns that lets you showcase your personal style. They also have carriers specifically designed for toddlers up to 65 pounds.
Ergo baby carriers are a bit more expensive. Still, they offer more carrying positions, including hip carrying, which is very popular with many parents. Ergo has received many awards and recognition for its products over the years.
Tula and Ergo carriers are nursing-friendly and have models with hoods for privacy and sun protection.
Ultimately, you’ll need to research and test-drive the models you’re interested in to see which is the most functional and comfortable for you and your baby.
Related: Parallel Play - Using Playtime to Encourage Social Development
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