First time mom or just needing a baby shower gift idea, these items were essential for me as a first time mom and I would buy them all again if I had to!
A compiled list of my favorite children's toys, games and brands! Giving a bit of insight to toys and companies that you are wondering about, but unsure with the hands off process of online purchasing.
It's so hard to know what you will and won't use at the beginning of your baby's life. These are things that I couldn't live without for the first 3 months!
If, like me, you love to give a Christmas gift hamper but get bored with the same old food selections, then making your own gift hamper can be a fun alternative. It works well with all ages and is especially great if you want to gift to a family group or a set of child siblings, as it can often be easier to find several smaller gift items than one large one. You can also tailor boxes to suit interests such as sports, movies or themes such as countries or cooking…the only limit on what you can do with gift hampers is your own imagination!
This is not an exhaustive list, but simply our favorites and many lesser-known resources. Also, try the “dyslexia” font on Kindles for struggling readers.
No fluff, no aesthetic-only picks… just products we genuinely used, loved, and reached for daily. From meltdowns to bedtime to keeping tiny hands busy, these are my ride-or-dies.
These are some must haves for a safer, easier, and fun baby bath! This list has everything you need for your little one's bath. All of these recommendations are items I have used and loved.
Because mom life is hard, let’s make it a little easier! I wish i had a list like this the first time i was becoming a mom. Some of these products made such an impact on my day to day life as a new mom! So if you are a mom to be, this is the list for you!
As a mum of 3, ive added some much needed essential items that I love and some absolute game changers making parenting life that bit easier. Have a wonderful day. Enjoy. Lace
There's tired, there's mom tired, and then there's homeschool mom tired. It's a whole ‘nother level! Setting realistic expectations helps. Make sure you're being realistic for yourself and your kids. Also, remember to give yourself grace! Your kids are getting so much more than just reading, writing, and math from staying home. Follow me here: YouTube: tinyurl.com/8muczuwn and instagram.com/natural_roots_living
Our family is constantly on the go, roadtrips are our jam with plane rides a couple times a year. Here are the things we always pack and use on planes and in cars!
these are the gifts parents really use once baby arrives—practical, thoughtful, and guaranteed not to collect dust. there are so many lists full of stuff you don’t actually need, this is a collection of all must haves to be prepared for your little one to arrive
My daughter brings lunch to school a few days of the week. I have been a kid in the candy store packing lunch for her. These items make it much more organized.
These are *unique* items that you may have missed during your first pass at a baby registry. You won't find the Frida Mom Kit, diapers, bottles, or burp cloths on this list as its purposefully highlighting items you may have missed!
The summer is hot and humid but we don't let that stop us for enjoying the outdoors. My kids love to play in all types of water and I enjoy a beverage on the patio in the evening.
As a mom of a baby and toddler here’s my car must haves that have saved us on the busy days where it feels like we live in our car! From car organization to boredom busters. Here’s all my favorite mom car finds!
Great toys to help with learning, development, and milestones. I have bought and played with each toy listed. My son loved them all and they helped tremendously with growth and development.
Newborn essentials I used daily and would buy again. Thoughtfully chosen items that supported us during those early weeks and made day-to-day life with a newborn feel more manageable
when it’s time for school, don’t worry about trying out so many different things, try these trusted go-to school supplies that i have repurchased over and over for school!
Celebrate the season with the cutest Christmas must-haves for babies and toddlers- from holiday toys that spark learning and fine motor skills to cozy essentials that encourage sensory play and curiosity. Joyful, development-boosting fun for the littlest ones with some added holiday magic.
I’m a huge believer that being set up for success will give you less stress! I know from experience😅 This has all of my baby must haves that have made my life easier. Having a baby is so exciting and I honestly love all the extra “stuff” around my house. It means I have little people that I LOVE and I truly love the chaos. I’m also a big believer in systems so the mess doesn’t stress you out! Take a look at the items and let me know if you have any questions! There are many different baby items out there and I love to tell my opinions from experience. #commissionsearned
All my favorite things that keep me sane in the fourth trimester! Also please note, I’ve had 2 vaginal deliveries so things I thought were helpful may differ some!
We’re so excited to be welcoming Baby #2 this year! These are some items I’m getting to add to what I have for my first baby and replacement items of things that either wore out, got used up, or things I want to replace to try something different.
These are our tried - and - true mealtime essentials. Everything from sturdy suction plates to waterproof spill mats, all available on Amazon. We personally own all of these and have loved every single one from infant to toddler.
My go-to baby essentials that have truly made life easier as a mom of three! This list is filled with my most-used, most-loved baby items — from feeding, sleep-must haves, and everyday products I actually reach for. Whether you’re a first-time mom building your registry or just looking for products that simplify daily life with a baby, these are the items I genuinely recommend and would buy again. 🤍
These are the kid-approved, mom-tested things we use and love — from everyday must-haves to fun finds that actually hold up. I’ve got little ones, so I’m always looking for things that make life easier, keep them entertained, and survive real-life messes. You’ll find lunchbox gear, toys, clothes, and random gems I didn’t know I needed until I did. If it’s on this list, it’s something we use in our home (and probably reorder)
I rounded up the most adorable and stylish, swim and summer outfit picks for baby boys, toddler girls and little boys (6/7). Think playful prints, great colors, and comfy fits they can actually move in—perfect for, pool hangs, or backyard bbq’s, vacation, etc. Because let’s be honest… we all want our kids to look cute while they’re living their best summer life.
A collection of baby items that got me through the early days of motherhood—when time wasn’t real, sleep was a myth, and everything felt slightly chaotic. These are the little things that actually helped
Breastfeeding and pumping are both so HARD! But oh so magical and rewarding. Mamas are true superheroes. Here is everything you need and more to get you started on your breastfeeding journey.
* Contains affiliate links *
As a mom and vacation rental host, I've tested hundreds of kids' products with my own little ones and the families who stay at our properties. These are the toys, games, and wellness essentials that get used over and over again — from creative arts supplies to outdoor adventure kits. Every pick on this list has been kid-approved and parent-loved!
A list of tried and true toy recommendations that this paediatric Occupational Therapist uses in practice to support the development of pincer grip. I've tried to include various resources for different age ranges and different interests. Those with “Older” or “Younger” in the title are specifically for older/younger learners, and those that don't specify are appropriate for a wider age range. Some of these items are designed specifically for developing fine motor skills, and others are regular household items or games that can also be used to build on pincer grasp. If you have any questions about how to use any of the resources, please let me know and I'd be happy to help out!
These are the products we’ve been reaching for when it comes to keeping medicine options a little simpler and more intentional for our family and baby. We’ve been gradually trying to reduce some of the more unnecessary ingredients in the home and be more mindful about what we keep on hand and use regularly, especially for things we reach for during sick days or everyday care.
My recommendations as a FTM! I will be updating this list more as my baby grows, so far these are all the things I couldn’t live without for the first month!
This back-to-school list is made for stay-at-home moms who want smoother mornings, organized afternoons, and less chaos overall. Everything here is practical, mom-approved, and actually gets used.
Cloth diapering favorites we actually use and love 🤍 I prioritize natural fibers like organic cotton, but I also use microfiber inserts when they make sense for our routine. And on days when cloth just isn’t doable, we reach for eco-conscious disposables like Hiro — designed to break down with fungi instead of sitting in landfills for decades.I’ve used cloth diapers daily and tested what actually works (and what doesn’t). If you’re overwhelmed, this is the exact setup I use that made cloth diapering simple and doable. No fluff — just real products that held up through daily use, leaks, and laundry routines.
If you are in the same stage of life that I am in with 2 toddlers, the amount of toys you accumulate on birthdays and holidays can be very overwhelming! In my house, we have started to be more selective about what toys we have for a toddlers – often the criteria is: 1) they have to have more than 1 purpose (can be used in many ways to encourage creativity); 2) they have to promote development of a motor skill or cognitive/problem solving skill; 3) they have to be FUN so that my kids will actually play with them! Check out my list of favorite toddler toys below – each description states the age range I would use this and what it promotes developmentally speaking!
This list includes engaging toys that help toddlers stay occupied while building important skills like fine motor, problem solving, and independent play.
As a BCBA and a parent, I look for toys that keep toddlers engaged while encouraging independence and meaningful play.
These are some games that I grew up playing that I personally have always enjoyed, but now as a school-based certified occupational therapy assistant these are some games that I find my students love.
Make bath time fun for both baby and you! My husband and I have utilized all of these products and would recommend them to anyone that is in need or expecting a little one.
We all know little boys aren’t very quiet. As a mom of 4 boys here are some of my recommendations to keep them entertained and your house maybe slightly quieter
Finding the perfect gift for a one-year-old can be a challenge, but this list has you covered! From developmental toys to keepsakes, these gift ideas are sure to bring joy and spark little imaginations. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday or a special occasion, these thoughtful picks will make their first year unforgettable!
I have a neurodivergent son. We've benefitted from a variety of therapists and medical professionals who've made suggestions on things that we can have in the house to help our little guy.
Everything I've purchased to set me up well for postpartum. As a first time Mom, this can be overwhelming to think through, so I am hoping this is helpful for someone!
I am currently pregnant with my fourth and final baby (Noah's irish twin). I wanted to list a few fun items I am buying the sweet new bundle of love. I hope you enjoy this newborn list!
Back to school used to mean chaos—until I found systems that actually work. These tools keep my home, my kids, and my own brain organized. Whether you’re juggling multiple drop-offs or just trying to keep track of lunchboxes, these mom-tested products bring calm to the school year rush.
Looking to add some flair to your toddlers life? Start looking for sites other than Amazon to shop. Learning materials, potty training, bedding, and so much more. Do you have a style your looking for but can't seem to find it? Maybe it's on one of these sites.
Who doesn't love Target? Halloween is just around the corner. We have our favorites here, from gifts to friends to baby shower essentials. Check it out! I can't wait for my next trip to Target.
Everything on here was on my registry or was gifted for my baby shower. I love that everything worked out for me and the baby. I hope you guys enjoy the same as well.
are you going to a baby shower soon and have no idea what to get! then this list is perfect for you. make sure to pay attention to their registry, but if you want a cute presentation and items they'll actually use, this is perfect! this ends up being a little over $200
My fav Montessori toys at Target 🎯
What are Montessori toys?
- Montessori toys are simple, hands-on toys that help kids learn real-life skills through play. They’re usually made to encourage independence, problem-solving, creativity, and focus instead of lights, sounds, and overstimulation. 🐻
Tired of seeing baby products that are the most expensive ones out there, and wondering if you’re actually going to use them? Here are some of my baby finds that we actually enjoy using and our babies didn't hate and weren’t the most expensive out there. :) So happy you stumbled upon my favorites!
We can't do dance without these items. Food, accessories, attire, I've listed it all! I love to organize days in advance for competitions and recitals and making sure all these items are topped up fills my heart with joy
I sure do love my adventures! Here are the things that make taking kids and babies on the move a little easier and less stressful.
From travel systems to accessories all these things are my grab and go to items that I refuse to leave home without!
I use strollers and wagons for as long as I can - it is safer for the kids and easier for me. As they get older they learn about being safe in the street and staying by me. I really do think it's better to keep them strapped in as much as you can.
All these items are ideas and inspiration - you can choose what works best for you. Don't forget to repurpose and reuse what you have or what your friends are giving away.
If you’re anything like me, you will want to keep your toddler busy while they are home for the summer. I made a list of outdoor and pool toys that will keep your kids busy.
For my son’s first birthday, we did a “One Happy Camper” theme. Here’s an overview of his party, as well as gifts he got!
*links may be eligible for commission*
Baby products can be overwhelming and half of them are useless. I’ve tried a lot, ditched the junk, and kept what actually works and hopefully now I can save some moms the headache of testing what works!
My 9-year-old is officially done with toys and made the cutest wish list this year. She’s all about decorating her room, organizing her vanity, and styling herself. We’re dipping into beginner beauty + skincare (age-appropriate, of course), but we’re not quite at the phone stage yet. She also loves to read and still has a soft spot for cute stuffies. If you’ve got a hard-to-shop-for girl this age, this list will make holiday shopping so much easier!
Pregnancy can be beautiful, exciting, and overwhelming all at once. I put together this Pregnancy Peace Kit with the essentials that truly helped me feel comfortable, supported, and cared for during each stage of my journey. From gentle belly oils and prenatal vitamins to cozy support pillows and natural remedies for nausea and swelling, these are the things I actually used and loved. Whether you’re just starting your first trimester or counting down the weeks, this kit is here to make your pregnancy a little easier and a lot more peaceful.
Each year, this list feels like more than just supplies—it feels like preparation for another season of growth. Two sets of shoes a little bigger than last year, two backpacks ready to carry not just books, but big feelings, hard lessons, and sweet victories.