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  • Can the Montessori Method be Used with Babies?

    Have you heard the term “Montessori” thrown around? You have probably heard it in connection with preschool or kindergarten aged children. This method is increasingly used in schools today as it allows a space full of developmentally appropriate toys and games. It encourages kids choose for themselves which ones they want to play with.

    But, what about using Montessori for babies or toddlers? Like many other parents, you may have dismissed the idea until they were a bit older. Though this style of play can have great benefits to your baby!

    What is Montessori Method?

    One day you are in the hospital, giving birth, and the next your child is walking and talking. You hear it from your family and loved ones; “they grow up fast.” This is true! But, during the first 3 years of their life, your child develops more rapidly than at any other time. During this stage, your child absorbs so much information from the world around them simply through observation and experiences. These years lay the foundation for learning. If they have a strong foundation to grow on, the more the child will be able to build upon it.

    The Montessori Method isn’t just an approach to academic learning for our children. It can help guide baby’s development right from birth. This method is a child-centered approach to education and development. It encompasses hands-on, multi-sensory activities that kids can engage in at their own pace. Sometimes people are surprised to hear a newborn can use the Montessori principles.

    It is easy to apply the Montessori Method to your child’s life. You simply need to offer the suitable environments without obstacles. Place Montessori-style items within your little one’s reach, placed on low, open shelves. Then sit back and observe. Gently guide your child without directing their play. The goal is learning towards independence. This will lay the foundations to the way they explore and how they feel about themselves.

    What Type of Toys Should I Look for?

    Your child’s playroom is the perfect place to introduce the Montessori Method. But first you must know what to look for when stocking the shelves. To know what signifies a Montessori toy look for the following suggestions:

    Toys made of natural materials. Toys made of wood, wool, cotton, metal, ceramic and even rock are Montessori toys. They connect children to nature and are usually safer to their mouth. The different textures, temperatures and weights are important to help children refine their senses.

    Toys that do not make electronic sounds or movements. Montessori toys are designed to encourage children to explore and discover independently. Instead of going for flashy toys that move and make sounds on their own, get the ones that require your child to physically manipulate them on their own.

    Toys that are realistic ideas. Montessori toys are rooted in reality, creating a great learning opportunity about the world around us. Babies and young children don’t yet know what’s real and what’s fake. Mermaids, unicorns, cartoon characters; these seem no less real than their pet dog. It can be confusing when we teach them about something and then says it’s not real. Choosing between a stuffed dragon or elephant? Choose the animal that your child can later see and learn about in the zoo.

    Toys that hone one-task learning. Teaching toys that sharpen one skill at a time is a staple of the Montessori Method. These toys should help kids know if they’ve completed the task correctly.

    Toys with a purpose. Montessori toys can also allow children to independently engage in chore-like activities, like raking leaves or sweeping. These make the child feel important and like they have a purpose.

    The best Montessori toys for babies

    We have done a bit of research and found some of the most popular Montessori toys on the market today. You can find many homemade toys and manufactured toys online or at your local baby boutique. Here are a few recommendations from us.

    Montessori toys for newborns to around 3 months:

    There is the most beautiful series of mobiles for Montessori babies available on Amazon. Mobiles are a great item for babies who are not yet crawling or walking. The proved developmental opportunities while in the crib. The Baby Wooden Play Gym Mobile is a unique hanging design that includes chewable features safe for your infant.

    Since we are on the topic of crib toys, the Mamimami Toy Beech Wooden Sensory Kit is the ideal purchase for every baby. These one-task toys include rattles and other one-task toys that are safe to have in your baby’s crib. They are made of safe and durable wood and support brain development.

    Some Montessori grasping toys for babies 3-8 months:

    When your baby begins teething, purchase a natural wood rattle ring, made for safe chewing. This item is made from food grade silicone and can fit around your wrist or can be easily gripped by babies small hands. They come in many colors and contain a chic natural look. Purchase them on Amazon UK here: Nibbling Natural Wood Rattle Rings.

    Your baby will also love to play with a Montessori fabric ball, tossing and rolling it about the house. The Ying Yang Puzzle Ball is made of washable material and safe for your baby’s mouth. They will love chasing this soft toy around after bouncing and swatting at it!

    Some examples of Montessori materials for babies from 8 to 14 months

    The classic Melissa & Doug Stacking Rings are an old and new educational toy babies have played with for decades! This stacking toy is made of wood and allows your baby to learn how to order items on their own. The product is durable and safe and sure to be your child’s favorite!

    Another product sure to win your baby’s heart is the MojiDecor Shape Sorter toy. This two in one toy provides a fun way for your child to roll their toy around the room and learn to match wooden blocks with their rightful compartment. This wooden toy promotes hand eye coordination and motor skills of your child.

    Let’s not forget the role playing aspect of Montessori! This Treasure Basket is full of learning resources for your child’s pretend play! This basket is filled with 21 wooden and natural items. The items encourage exploration and support creative play. It is sure to provide sensory stimulation essential to the brain development.

    So What are You Waiting For?

    Your baby has an absorbent mind, ready to take in all the world can offer. They are learning impressions of the world around them without any effort. And they absorb the good as easily as the bad. So start applying the Montessori Method at home with your little one today. It is easy and you will be happy you started early.

  • Which baby walkers are safe to encourage baby to walk?

    Your baby is starting to stand up and you want to help them make their first steps? It’s normal to want to encourage your child development, however it’s not always easy to know how. Should you use a walker? Is it safe? Does that really help your baby?

    We’ve looked into it and we’re bringing you the good, the bad and the ugly from the baby walkers:

    The best baby walkers to encourage your baby to walk

    The best activity walkers for toddlers

    The best walker for babies

    Honorable mention for the cute wooden walkers

    Avoid the sit-in walkers

    Many studies and experts have questioned the safety of sit-in walkers. In fact, these toys have been banned in Canada for years and the EU recommendation is to not use a sit-in walker to avoid accidents

    Between 1990 and 2014 in Ohio, a study recording the cause of trauma of babies under 15 months old admitted to the ER highlighted the risks of injuries related to sit-in walker. During that period, 230,676 children were treated for trotter related injuries

    According to the study, the walker place the babies in potentially dangerous situation giving them more freedom of movement and speed than the babies can safely manage. Toddlers smash their fingers between the toy and walls, twist their ankles underneath themselves and most of them fall down the stairs…

    Furthermore, according to a British study, babies that use sit-in walkers would make their first steps later than other babies. According to psycho-motor experts, these walkers might have a negative impact on the development of the baby’s hips and prevent the baby to learn to coordinate his legs and arms.

    Can a push along baby walker help your baby to learn to walk?

    While sit-in walkers are widely not recommended due to the large amount of accidents that are associated to them, it doesn’t mean you have to completely renounce to encourage your kid walking with toys.

    A baby walking trolley is very effective to stimulate the mental and motor development of your baby. Your baby will do their first step holding on to it, giving them a feel of what they need to do to walk

    Today there are countless models of walkers. Between all of the different functions and price points, it can be really difficult to narrow your choice down. So we’ve written a little guide for you

    What to look for in a baby walker

    There are several criteria to consider when buying this kind of baby walking aids.

    The material: The first thing to consider is the materials used. There are plenty of plastic walkers but my favorite are the wooden ones. They are indeed more expensive but also more solid. It is an ecological material, resistant and which ensures a good life with the trolley. However, make sure that other products used for assembly and treatment are safe for your child’s health.

    The colour: Regarding the shape and colour, it is better to choose a colorful model that will help awaken the curiosity of your baby.

    The weight: The weight of the device is an important characteristic. To ensure good stability, prefer models that are not too light. On the other hand, it is also recommended to avoid too heavy walkers, that would be too difficult for your little one to handle properly. This parameter usually depends on the materials of manufacture, the wooden articles are heavier than the plastic ones.

    The look & accessories: Accessories coming with the walker are also an important thing to consider when making your purchase decision. There are baby trolleys that look like a kitchen or pram to help the baby mimic what their parent does every day.

    A great bonus if the model can store your baby’s toys in it. Furthermore the ability to adjust the height of this equipment is also very practical so you adapt it according to the size of your child.

    To help you buy the stand up walker that will fit your little one’s needs, we’ve selected our favourite five baby walkers.

    Hope this made your search for the right walker for your baby a little easier. If you found this article helpful, please be sure to check out some of our other baby equipment articles! We have compiled right here the best sensory toys for baby on the market today.

  • The ultimate baby hamper guide: make it an extra special gift

    Baby gift baskets are an assortment of useful items for newborns and their parents. They are beautifully decorated and can even be personalised.

    Newborn baby hampers are one of the most popular gifts for baby showers. For a good reason, it’s a guaranteed home-run. You can be sure at least one thing in it is going to be useful to the baby. Plus it’s a perfect group gift as you can make it as small or as big as you want.

    There are so many baby hampers out there, with so many different composition. It can be difficult to choose what to put in yours.

    I have gathered here some of the best options I offered to my expecting friends. Hopefully this little guide will help you out!

    Don’t have the time or creativity to make your own hamper? Jump straight onto our favourite ready-made baby gift baskets, there are some for every budget.

    DIY Baby Hampers: Compose your own

    One of the best presents are the ones you put your heart and soul into. So why not just DIY a baby hamper basket? It’s easy! Especially if you’re into crafts.

    You can buy the items separately, mix and match them and create unique baby hampers.

    Here are some of my favourite items to put into by gift baskets:

    The Hamper basket

    A cute basket is the element that ties the gifts together and make it aesthetic. You need to have a good idea of how many items you want to put in the hamper to be able to assess the size of basket you need.

    There are typical three sizes: small medium and large. Whatever size you choose, make sure the height of the basket is under 20cm otherwise it will overpower the aesthetic and you won’t be able to see the gifts inside.

    I’d stick to the traditional wood, willow or wicker for the basket. Woodluv is my favourite brand of willow baskets, they are well finished, use good quality wicker or willow and they already come with a lining and ribbon.

    Small baskets

    Medium Baskets

    Large Baskets

    The Decoration

    In general I try to get my basket super cute so I don’t need to add too much decoration and I focus on the gift to put in it. But if you feel really creative you can add a lot of lovely personal touches to your basket to make it even more unique.

    from Pinterest

    Personalised lining

    You can add a new lining and even embroider the name of the baby on it. You can choose the colour and texture. The downside is that it requires quite a lot of work and customisation to fit it to the basket.

    Ribbon

    If you choose a wicker or willow basket a little ribbon is the little touch that brigs all the elegance. Since it’s already quite a rustic item you don’t want one of these shinning satin ribbon but a more rough fabric like linen.

    Shredded paper

    It’s a great tip to fill the empty space in your basket making it look fuller. Perfect trick if your basket is slightly too big for the gifts you bought. I tend to like more minimalist hamper design. But I’ve seen really lovely hampers that were filled of shredded paper to add some contrast and colour to the hamper (especially if the basket is white).

    Wooden Heart

    It’s a great personalised touch where you can engrave or paint either the name of the baby or a nice quote. I put one on all my hampers. I usually make them personalised but you can also buy them already made.

    Cellophane Gift Wrap

    I’m not a huge fan of that trend as I’m not a great packer but there are some lovely cellophane wrap with really cute pattern that you can use to finish your hamper.

    What to put in it?

    You can put whatever you dim useful in your hamper. The only rule is to try to make the colours match so it looks like a unity. I’d advise you to keep it simple, do not mix more than two or three colours (including white).

    How many items should you put in your baskets? It’s completely up to you and your budget, however I would always make sure you have at least 3-4 items in it.

    I have gathered here the usual items I mix in my baskets. I made sure to offer you options for boys, girls and also unisex.

    If it’s not your first time reading our articles, you’ll know I’m a sucker for Peter Rabbit So I’ve also included my favourite Peter Rabbit hamper gifts

    Muslin squares

    You can never have enough of these. Go for those with a nice print as they give the baby hamper more personality. There are plenty of handmade ones to be found online.

    Bodysuits

    Just like with muslin squares, the more the better. There are plenty of budget-friendly ones to choose from.

    Cotton hats

    If it’s a winter baby, a cotton hat will come very handy, especially since babies tend to lose them easily.

    Assorted Set

    Bathing Products & Accessories

    They don’t need to be expensive, just be sure they are good quality.

    Socks

    Who can’t resist a cute little socks? Maybe you can even knit them!

    A Teether

    Of all the toys you can choose for a newborn, this is the only one that will actually be used.

    A Soft Toy

    Great to fill some empty space in your basket.

    Ready-made Newborn Baby Hampers

    Budget Unisex Baby Hampers

    There are plenty of affordable baby hampers to be found online and in stores. Interestingly, they tend to be more practical than those on the more expensive side. Here are some I recommend.

    Luxury Baby Hampers

    If you’re not on a budget, you can afford to buy a baby hamper that is either filled with more items, or which items are a bit more extravagant. These can also be great shared gifts. Here are some of the unisex baby hampers I like:

    I hope I help you make your choice for your baby hamper! What would you choose to put in it? Let me know in the comments and share with us the picture of your own baby hampers!

    And if you’re looking for other baby shower gifts or just something to give to a mum-to-be, I’ve got you covered, too!

  • The best maternity pads & disposable knickers after giving birth

    It’s easy to think of what your baby will need in the first few days of their life: bodysuits, pyjamas, diapers…

    But we often forget that we, future mothers, are going to spend a few days at the maternity too.

    Of course, it’s important to provide all the necessary toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush etc.), comfortable clothes… But we will also need specific products, related to delivery, including hygienic pads!

    The best maternity pads

    In short, maternity sanitary pads are essential for the first days after delivery! Expect to have to use them for the first week after your delivery to handle the postpartum bleeding.

    You can use maxi night sanitary towels, but I recommend using maternity pads. They are specifically tailored to the needs of your sensitive intimate parts after delivery, and specifically designed to absorb the greater losses of the early postpartum days.

    Note: Hygienic tampons should be avoided for at least 6 weeks after delivery until the cervix is ​​completely closed.

    The best disposable maternity knickers

    Small advice, buy a dozen disposable mesh briefs.

    Of course, it is not very sexy, but you will be much more comfortable for the days following childbirth. Especially if you’re curvy, if you had a cesarean section, if you have an episiotomy, or a major tear.

    They’ll probably have some in your maternity, but they may also be out of stock or in low stock and then they will prioritise women that had a C-section.The others had to fend for themselves. You’d rather not rely on the maternity to provide you with this must-have, bring your own.

    Our top choice of flexible and comfortable disposable panties:

    Disposable briefs to avoid

    Not all maternity briefs are equal. Some of them are more comfortable than other and will suit your body better. Avoid if possible this kind of disposable briefs:

    They are not elastic enough to adapt to your movements and morphology. And if you had a C-section, the brief elastic will go right on to your scar.

    Do you really need some special gear for your body after giving birth?

    Short answer: hell yes!

    Let’s be honest, childbirth is not the end of the work for your body. For several days – usually a week – you’ll get vaginal bleeding. These are the “lochia”, composed of debris of mucosa and clots that were not evacuated during delivery.

    These bloody losses are completely normal, every woman has it after delivery. the flow can vary greatly depending on the woman. Some will have bleeding until their first periods following the delivery.

    Because of all the changes and the unusual flow you will need some special accessories especially for the first 48 hours. And having the right gear can make it or break it. You’re already really tired and overwhelmed after giving birth, the last thing you want is to feel even more uncomfortable down there or stain your clothes or sheets.

    In order to prevent leaks and ensure you a good protection, we selected the best products specially designed for the aftermath of childbirth.

    The hygienic must-haves after giving birth

    If you opt for an intimate soap, I recommend high quality products, such as saforelle or lactacyd femina. It’s more expensive but well worth the price. Your intimate parts are already very sensitive, you don’t want to irritate it products that are too strong or not adapted to your situation.

    Otherwise, the best is a savon de marseille or aleppo soap, fragrance free, and composed mainly of vegetable oil.

    Tips on how to use it

    Leave a bottle or other container that pours well   full of water with your intimate soap near the toilet. This will allow you to easily make a small intimate wash directly above the toilet, after a significant lochia flow.

    Then after the first week, I recommend keeping intimate wipes in your bag just to make sure you can refresh yourself on the go.

    Tips to avoid vaginal infections:

    During the 6 weeks following delivery the cervix is ​​not completely closed. To limit the risk of infection, avoid:

    • Baths (swimming pool, sea, bath)
    • Hygienic tampons
    • Vaginal douches

    Now you know which products not to forget in your maternity bag! Don’t hesitate to comment with more recommendation and tips to face the first few weeks after childbirth.

  • Monthly must reads for parents – June 2019 Edition

    Summer is finally here. I know it’s difficult to believe with the poor weather we’re having. To bring a bit of sun I made the June monthly read roundup about holidays abroad! Enjoy!

    Tips for visiting Venice with a toddler on Mudipie Fridays
    These pictures of their trip in Venice will transport you to Italy instantaneously. Plus Clare gives some pretty good tips.

    Our Italian Adventure: A day trip to Venice on Five Little Doves
    Talking about Venice, Laura also made a great post with amazing pictures of her day in Venice. Shame the sun was not out.

    A week in Rome on What The Red Head Said
    Still in Italy, what about visiting Rome? Donna made a pretty good list of all the must see in Rome.

    Things to do in Miami with Kids (Florida Road Trip Part 1) on Mummy Daddy Me
    If Italy is not for you, why not the US? I’m a big fan of Katie Ellison and her travel. If you have not seen her travel vlog yet, you must check it out! This blog post is a complement full of good recommendations if you’re visiting Miami.
    Update: part two is here

    Solar buddies review an easy way to apply suncream on Emmy’s Mummy
    Not exactly about travel but an interesting product review that could come handy if the sun ever shows up. I never heard of this sun cream before but seems like a great idea that would give kids a bit more independence in terms of protecting themselves from the sun. Let me know what you think

    Baby born on train given free rail travel for 25 years on the Independent
    A light read with a fun fact from Ireland.

  • Best baby gyms & playmats for newborns and toddlers

    Our selection of baby play mats for newborns

    Our selection of play mats & gyms for toddlers

    Your baby’s development relies on the various awakening activities they do. It’s all about stimulating his brain so that one is able to make connections and draw conclusions from an early age. It has been proven that most children who have had an activity gym as a baby have a more open mind. So, it is quite normal that so many parents and nurseries are interested in this accessory.

    What should you be looking for in a play mat? One that is safe, practical, easy to transport and why not, evolutive to keep your baby entertained for months, or even years!

    We have gathered the best baby gyms from each price point and for every ages to ensure you find the play equipment that works for you and your baby.

    Best baby gym for newborns

    To rest or to develop their senses, from the first few weeks of their life, your little one will appreciate a soft comfortable baby mat. A nice addition to the mat is a baby gym. Your baby will love reaching up for its hanging toys. Here are our to pick baby playmats.

    Our favourite newborn play mats

    Best budget baby gym

    Best crawling mat for young babies

    A great addition to this bigger mat, is a sit-me-up seat to encourage baby to sit up. Take a look at our best tips and favourite baby floor seats to help little ones sit up by themselves.

    Best playmats for toddlers

    If your little one is starting to crawl, a playmat is the perfect accessory to make sure they can play and explore safely. We’ve selected bigger play mats than the newborns ones so your baby have all the space they need to crawl around and have more toys around.

    Best activity mat

    Best large play mat

    Best budget play mat

    Special mention for elegant design

    Extra suggestions for toddlers play mats

    We’ve selected quite versatile mat for crawlers that can also be used for older toddlers. However we wanted to show you some more original additions that could make your baby play area even more entertaining.

    Soft flooring

    Farm mat

    Accessories for adventurous babies

    So which one is your favourite? Did you go for a stylish grey one or for a more colourful one?

    Now that you know where your baby will be playing, you may be interested in checking out one of our other article, the best sensory toys for baby. It will help you figure out which toys are best for helping baby build their motor and language skills.

  • Best baby bouncers, rockers and swings in 2020

    When you come home with a baby for the first time, it’s hard to know where to start. And one of the biggest question is where to put baby down?

    Most new parents will confirm that it’s almost impossible to get have time for yourself. Your baby wants to always be with you, be soothed.At first a baby sling or scarf will do the job, but after a few weeks your baby will need a more permanent solution.

    That’s what swings, rockers and bouncers are for. You can safely put baby in and get a shower or prepare a meal. The big thing is finding the right swing or rocker that will soothe your baby, and they are not all equal in terms of movement and durability.

    We’ve divided our favorite ones into two categories:

    Best manual swings and bouncers

    The minimalist bouncer chair

    The best baby travel swing

    Great long time option

    Best bouncer chairs and baby seats with electric motion

    Our Top Baby Rockers

    Best electric baby swing to travel

    The nap specialist

    The ultimate baby swing

    Hope our suggestions helped you find the perfect seat for your baby. I’d love to know which one you chose. Share a picture in the comments!

    We chose to only cover the soothing seats that calm your baby and sometimes help them fall asleep. If you’re looking for more entertaining seats, we’ve the perfect guide of the best activity bouncers and jumpers for toddlers.

    If you found this helpful and you’re looking for some help to find an activity gym for your baby head over our article on most entertaining playmats for babies, you might just find what you’re looking for.

  • The Perfect Gifts to spoil a Mum-to-be

    Being pregnant is amazing but let’s be honest it’s also exhausting and stressing. So why not treat an expectant mother with pamper gifts that will cheer her up and encourage her?

    Mum-to-be gifts are also brilliant presents to bring to a baby shower too. To often all the gifts are for the baby and not often enough for the incubator, aka the soon to be mum. That’s so unfair, she is the one doing all the work!

    The point is to show that you care about her. I suggest getting creative with your gift ideas for your pregnant friend. To spark your inspiration, here is my top list of mother-to-be gifts.

    Pregnancy gift ideas under £20

    Presents for a future mum under £50

    If you like the pillow idea to offer to your pregnant friend, we’ve made a special article to help you choose the best pregnancy pillow on the market.

    Mum To Be Gifts Above £50

    I hope you found this article useful if you were looking for inspiration for gifts for pregnant women. I think Mum-to-be presents should be much more common practice, just because they make pregnancy that much easier and even more special for the future mum.

    Let me know which one are your favourite. And if your expecting, please share with us what you’d like your friends and family to offer you.

  • The 7 best baby sleeping bags for every temperature

    Babies tend to toss and turn a lot (everyone who’s ever co-slept with a baby knows how much). Sleeping bags is a great way to make them feel safe and tightly snuggled, exactly like they were in the womb, guaranteeing you longer nights.

    Plus it’s a great way to make sure your little one is warm and well secured at all times while they sleep.

    It’s all about finding the best sleeping bag for your baby to be comfortable in. That’s why I prepared a little baby sleeping bag guide to help you pick the right one for you!

    Choosing the right baby sleeping bag

    A sleeping bag for babies can come in numerous designs, from knitted baby sleeping bags to Disney baby sleeping bags. But choosing the right pattern shouldn’t be your priority.

    As with most things for babies, it’s the material that they are made of that is the most important. This is where a tog comes in. A tog is a unit of measurement that calculates the thermal resistance of a product. The higher the tog, the warmer the material will be.

    To determine the right sleep bag for your baby, calculate the room temperature your baby will be sleeping in first. Then check out this list of products I made with the baby sleeping bag tog guide to make things easier for you!

    Sleep bag for hot Summers
    Room temperature: above 24°C

    For that kind of temperature you need a very light sleeping bag, maximum 0.5 togs.

    Gro baby sleeping bags are some of the most popular ones. They start at 0.5 tog, up to 3.5 tog.

    The brand offers different sizes and designs. Each one is made from high quality machine washable material. You just can’t go wrong with it, being probably one of the best baby sleeping bag available.

    Sleep bags for Spring & Summer
    Room temperature between 20 and 24°C

    Another option for a summer baby sleeping bag, a little warmer than 0.5 tog, is a baby sleeping bag 1.0 or 1.5 tog.

    Sleep bags for Autumn & Winter
    Room temperature between 16 and 20°C

    The 2.5 tog baby sleeping bags are obviously warmer than the previous suggestions and are designed for babies sleeping in lower room temperatures (which is said to be healthier). It’s the most popular tog.

    Sleep bags for cold Winters
    Room temperature between 12 and 15°C

    For really cold occasions like needing a baby sleeping bag for camping or just room temperatures around 12-15°, you should opt for a higher tog rating. A 3.5 tog baby sleeping bag with arms or sleeves is definitively the best choice here.

    How often do you get up during the night to check if your child is tucked in properly? Way too many times… I know, me too. But the sleeping bag really gave me a piece of mind and surprisingly increase the night of my little one.

    Let me know in the comments which one you chose and how you’re getting on with it!

    Last note on the subject: once your baby learns how to get out of the cot, you should stop using the bag, also if you plan on using a cot duvet, too. And while we’re on the subject of baby beds – check out the best bedside cribs I’ve researched for you!

  • Our 14 Best Ideas for 1st Birthday Gifts

    A child’s 1st birthday is a special moment for the entire family to celebrate. Maybe you’re the proud auntie, uncle, or grandparent getting ready to honour that little bundle of joy’s first birthday and you want to find the perfect gift. So, what exactly should you get that one-year-old in your life? Are there certain 1st birthday gifts for boys that maybe won’t be liked by girls?  What will they really want? There are so many questions that make shopping for munchkins very challenging.

    Purchasing gifts for a one year old usually stays within the boundaries of these three categories:

    • Things they need
    • Items that are educational and fun
    • Memorable 1st birthday presents

    Think about what your favorite one-year-old enjoys doing or items they tend to gravitate towards. Are they really into farm animals, playing in the kitchen while mum cooks, or is there a specific TV character they love? Whether you want to go for the toy, clothing, books, or something else entirely, here are a few perfect first birthday gift for the little in your life that fit into the three main categories.

    Gifts the one-year-old may need

    One route you can take with your 1-year-old birthday gift is necessities that they will use! You can never go wrong with some cozy jammies or a cute outfit. This one-year-olds needs may differ depending on the time of year of the birthday.

    Cute Jumpsuits are guaranteed to be a brilliant gift.

    Wellies are cute, practical and easy to clean. They will keep their feet warm and dry.

    If your budget allows it an animal towel is a very cute and useful gift

    Gifts of Education & Entertainment

    When seeking the gift to stimulate physical and mental development, consider gifts that increase large and fine motor skills, vocabulary, or language. These types of presents are some of the most fun for the child. A few examples include:

    1. Books

    For long car rides, plane travelling, or even wind down time at home, a toddler activity book is the best gift. These books will keep baby focused on a quiet and fun activity while they practice their fine motor and memory skills.

    2. Rocking & riding toys

    Rocking or riding toys help build core strength and balance and usually come in the form of a rocking horse or a motorcycle. Most 1-year-olds have a blast zooming around on their very own set of wheels, but aren’t ready to pedal a tricycle. Having to roll around the house using their feet helps them builds muscle tone, coordination, and body awareness. These two toys from JoJo Maman Bebe Ltd, are some great options if you are looking for this type of gift:

    3. Toys to improve their motor skills

    Organizing, matching, and building toys help children develop fine motor skills.  Shape sorters, blocks and stacking toys allow little ones to practice recognizing shapes, matching colors, and manipulating small objects. These two suggestions are a sure hit, as well as the Pepa Pig Shape Sorter from Next.

    4. Make believe Gifts

    Creative and make believe first birthday gifts allow children to learn how to use their growing imagination.

    Make believe, or role playing toys, can enhance imaginative play.

    Gifts that provide Lifelong Memories

    Personalized gifts are very special, and can be kept for a lifetime. Next offer a large variety of personalized gifts, which can be found here. Having a book made or a pillow stitched with the child’s name on it, or gifting a soothing snuggly stuffed animal are both memorable 1st birthday gifts. Most children will hold on to that stuffed animal for many years to come.

    While nighttime rituals vary from family to family, most parents still read their little one books before bedtime. Books are a great gift as children love to listen to stories.  Choose a book with real life pictures, or one they can interact with.

    I hope you’ve enjoyed these ideas and you found the gift you were looking for.At the end of the day you want to make sure the first birthday gift will be enjoyed for months, or even years, to come.

    I’d love to hear if you have any other great gifts for 1 year old babies. Leave a comment and I’ll make sure to check it out and add the best ideas in the article.