As parents, we eagerly look forward to the milestones that mark the development of our babies. Those first steps are certainly one of the most exciting, and in no time our wobbly little people are running and climbing. You have gone from baby to toddler in the blink of an eye! Of course, the biggest transition at this stage is mobility, both in terms of their own bodies and in the need to get out and experience the world. Gone are the days of two naps, when your little person stays down for long stretches, and along with them close the windows of your freedom. There is A LOT out there for newborn registries and most needed essentials for the expectant mom, but what about that next transition from infant to toddler? As our kiddos grow, the list of essentials change. We’ve compiled a few top picks to consider for that toddling little soul as they develop and grow.
Ready, Set, Go Go Go! Toddler Essentials We Love
The transition from the bucket infant seat to the permanent car seat is a big decision. There are so many convertible car seats to choose from and with a very wide range of costs. Things to consider are the size of your car, how many car seats might need to fit in your car and of course, for us – after safety considerations – style and design. Following months of research we landed on two brands that deliver the safety and style we were looking for, Diono and Clek. With the AAP campaign “Rear Facing Longer” suggesting children should ride rear-facing until 40lbs you will want to look for a car seat to accommodate those requirements.
We love the design of the Diono and Clek brands of car seats as they check all the boxes. Both made in North America and top safety rated, they offer fabrics that we would happily cozy up in on our sofas, and will carry your small human safely through their car seat timeline. Plus, you will have that Marie Kondo moment of joy every time you buckle.
Help your little one make choices as to what they leave the house with, like choosing a few snacks for the road. If you empower them to make decisions and be responsible for their items from the beginning, you are laying some great groundwork for the future.
Backpacks can house a small reusable water bottle, snacks, that special lovie, the plastic dinosaur or the kitchen whisk that they simply can’t leave the house without. Plus, it’ll make them proud to carry their own necessities around!
The Montessori philosophy on development focuses on putting things on your child’s level. It is believed that furniture that is appropriately sized for children will foster their creativity and development. Pottery Barn Kids is a great resource for toddler-sized furniture! A desk or table for crafts and drawing, or a comfy reading chair where they can cultivate a passion for books.
Make it even more special for them and personalize it with their name. Definitely a plus for those little ones in that “mine” phase.
Ride on our little friends! A transitional tricycle or strider bike that grows with them is a terrific item for toddlers. It keeps them moving along on a walk which could take an eternity. Plus, any item with utility that lasts more than one phase is a definite winner!
Though it seems that your toddler could go for hours, those little legs do sometimes get tired. It’s time for an easy-folding lightweight stroller to take the place of that fancy travel system stroller you loved for those newborn days. The Summer 3Dlite+ is a fantastic choice and though it’s lightweight, it still feels substantial. It’s a breeze to pop open and fold on the go.
We also have to mention the GB Pockit stroller, which amazingly folds to the size of a small carry on. It’ll keep even keep you moving right through nap time!
Related Stories
