There are so many fantastic products, resources, and toys out there that are great for our kids. Just look at this list as an example. The great thing is that you can find products like these for all ages, from babies to the toddler years to teens!
When my son was a toddler, it was a whole different ball game from when he was an infant. I had to find new ways to keep him busy, help us through potty training, figure out what foods he would eat, and more. Here are some of my favorite products and resources I found for the toddler years.
1. Baby Bjorn Potty Chair
Toddler time is also potty-training time. The Baby Bjorn Potty Chair was a great entry into the potty-training phase before my little one was ready for the actual toilet. I like this seat for many reasons. It has a high splash guard that helps prevent spills, it was easy to clean, and it was very comfortable for my child. It was also easy to move around from room to room, which was helpful during the early potty-training days.
2. Magnetic Building Tiles
Whether you choose Magna-Tiles®, Picasso Tiles, or any other brand, any set of magnetic building tiles will do. They will provide hours of independent open-ended play. These are the only toys that my son has used consistently for the last two years. Lately, we have been taking them outside. He was thrilled when he found out they will stick to the garage door! With the many ways these toys can be used, they are worth the investment.
3. Hatch Rest Sound Machine
This isn’t just a regular noise maker. The Hatch Rest Sound Machine functions as an alarm clock, a night light with various color options, and can be programed to play bedtime stories. Pro-tip: the Hatch Rest+ 2nd Generation with a back-up battery is worth purchasing. There have been many occasions when we have lost power in the middle of the night and the sudden absence of white noise has woken my kids. With the backup battery, the white noise will continue even if the power is lost. We also program the light to turn green once it is an appropriate time to wake up, which has helped decrease the amount of times my son wakes up in the middle of the night.
4. EZPZ products for mealtime
I love all the EZPZ products. Their silicone cups, plates, and utensils have made the road towards promoting independent eating a whole lot easier. Their products are all designed by a speech and language pathologist who specializes in infant and toddler feeding. There are sensory bumps specifically placed on the products that help teach young eaters where to put their mouths on the straw and utensils. The products are third party tested and free from BPA, BPS, latex, lead, and phthalates.
5. Yummy Toddler Food Blog
Speaking of feeding, I feel like I am constantly thinking about what to feed my kids. They eat so much and so often! This blog has helped tremendously in coming up with healthy and delicious food options for my kids. She also has a few books. Dinnertime SOS is her latest book and has come through for me when I’ve needed new dinner ideas that the whole family enjoys.
Now that I am emerging out on the other side of the toddler phase, I can definitively say that no product or resource could have prepared me for the whirlwind that was toddlerhood. Be kind to yourselves, mamas. Be sure to allow yourselves lots of grace. You got this!
What toddler-centered products were most helpful to you?
