Ever have a brain blank on all the places you can take your kiddo on a rainy day? Or are you a mama visiting Birmingham for the first time? Whichever mama you are - this list is for YOU!
A baby's first Christmas is so special, and I love helping new parents in our family capture the memories. From personalized ornaments to matching pajamas and first toys, these are the gifts that become treasured keepsakes. I have given many of them to nieces, nephews, and friends over the years. Tell me your favorite first Christmas tradition in the comments!
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These are my favorite baby products that have worked for me and my 2 little ones! Perfect for a new mom who doesn’t know what to expect or what to buy.
I know how hard it can be to buy for our children sometimes. I mean to find things they actually love can be so hit and miss. Here are my recommendations for things my 6 year old son is currently loving. Hopefully this will help you when it comes to buying something for a 6 year old.
Keep kids entertained without the constant “I’m bored!”—this list is packed with fun, engaging activities for all kinds of moods and moments. Whether you need something quick while you work, a rainy day solution, or ideas to keep kids busy without a screen, these picks are practical, affordable, and actually hold their attention.
From hands-on creativity to interactive tech and classic play, everything here is chosen with real life in mind—easy to set up, minimal mess, and fun for a wide range of ages.
My toddler absolutely loves these things, and they make my life so much easier, too. We live 50% of our lives traveling full-time so everything on this list is home and travel friendly too.
My favorite items I used for both babies. I made this list to hopefully make it easier on another mom looking for good reliable products. I used and know!
For my daughter’s second birthday coming up, I decided to get her a play kitchen! Here are all the things I have gotten to complete the kitchen of her dreams!
I'm a new mom and try my hardest for my daughter not to have screen time since her little brain is learning and growing.
I have curated this list from all the toys we have tried on TikTok and from Amazon that my daughter still plays with daily. She absolutely loves all of these, and they are her go to toys!
I hope your kiddos enjoy them as much as mine!
My kid would peel apart every sandwich, leave the crusts in a pile, and come home with a lunchbox that looked like a crime scene. I tried bribing, hiding fillings, cutting diagonally. Nothing worked. Then I started swapping in fun cutters, better containers, and a few tricks that turned lunch from a battle into the easiest part of my morning. If you have a kid who treats crusts like poison and plain bread like a personal insult, scroll through before the school year gets any further.
These are products I ended up buying online at midnight that I didn’t think I needed but ended up being a lifesaver. You won’t regret having these around to make newborn life a little easier!
for when you don't feel good about shopping at t@rget anymore… look here! decent prices, good quality, pleasing prints and cuts with politics that that make you queasy! i try to shop sustainably where possible but that can be hard with kids' items. this is a mix of fast fashion and recycled or natural fibers that don't break the bank
Baby boy arrives soon! Here are some of the things I added to my baby registry on Amazon and Target as well as some tips & tricks for maximizing your registry discounts
Here are all the baby products that we ACTUALLY use- most likely everyday! It's so hard to distinguish between the items that are really going to be put to good use when it comes to baby items, but I've narrowed it down to my favorites. These are newborn focused but our girl is growing so the list is too! Our pacifier, bottle, owlet, nursery favorites...the list is long. While they aren't all needs- they are worth the hype they've received in my book!
No matter if you are stuck inside, or a bright sunny day, here are a few ideas to do with the kids to keep them having fun! From crafts-to family board games, to out door adventures!
In a world where tampons have lead and arsenic in them, we need lists like this. We are all just trying our best, even if sometimes it's really freaking hard. Follow for more, I'm always researching new stuff because I get bored of using the same two soaps every time.
A curated collection of sweet, stylish, and age-appropriate finds for the preteen who loves all things girly, cozy, and fun. Think soft pastels, cute accessories, beauty-beginner must-haves, room décor glow-ups, and creative hobbies that keep her inspired.
My kid was glued to his tablet every single afternoon — nothing worked until I brought home a worm bin with clear sides and suddenly he was narrating worm tunnels like a nature documentary host. If you have a curious kid between 4 and 10 who needs something hands-on and slightly gross to hold their attention, this is everything we use for our backyard worm observation setup. Took me weeks of trial and error so you can skip straight to the stuff that actually works.
My daughter forgot three project due dates in one semester and bombed a test she didn't know was happening. I was done with the sticky note chaos and the frantic Sunday night panic. This is everything we set up over winter break that turned her into someone who actually knows what's due and when. If your kid is drowning in assignments and losing track of deadlines, grab these before the next semester starts.
I wanted a simple changing station with meaningful touches since I knew we'd spend so much time there. This is what we came up with and it's worked great!
As a mom about to have her second child, BabyList has been one of my favorite places to create a registry, shop, find helpful checklists, and learn about my pregnancies! I love how you can things to your registry from any store or link you want, but BabyList themselves also have great products of their own! Not to mention, the 15% discount that can be used at the BabyList store… every penny is worth saving!
My fave cribs that are affordable but allow you to express your style! Most of these convert all the way to a twin or full size bed, so they are built to last and grow with your baby. highly recommend! designer (me) approved!
I am currently postpartum and I am breastfeeding. These are my absolute musts when it comes to breastfeeding to snacks from pumps!!! Follow me on TikTok for more 🥰
My daughter is about to start 1st grade soon and these are all the things I recommend for your kiddos starting school, no matter what grade! Getting back into a routine at the beginning of the school year can be tough but I hope some of these items can help make it easier! 🥰
The best way to get kids excited about nature is to get them outside, into nature! These items are perfect for that. Generally organized by age — age ranges are estimates; guardians know best what items are best for their kiddos! Note that most of these recommendations have affiliate links, allowing me to earn a small commission for my recs.
You know that moment when the wind rips your baby's blanket off the stroller for the third time and you're chasing it across the parking lot while pushing a screaming toddler? Yeah. That was me every single outing last fall. This list is for new parents and caregivers who actually leave the house with their kids and need stuff that stays put, clips on, and doesn't require an engineering degree. Took me two kids and a lot of wasted money to figure this out, so save yourself the trouble.
My first attempt at homemade baby food ended with sweet potato splattered on the ceiling and a freezer full of mystery blobs stuck to wax paper. If you're a new parent trying to batch-prep baby food without losing your mind or your counter space, this is the setup that finally clicked for me after three months of trial and error.
My little booger beans are going to be 3 soon and are all about Cars. Sometimes they even get mad when when I don’t refer to them by “lighting McQueen and Mator”. These birthday party kits have a little bit of everything in it and is sure going to put a smile on any kids face;)
NICU mom life is the farthest thing from our favorite and it feels so scary and unnatural. But sometimes we find ourselves in hard phases in life. These are some of the things that helped get us through.
My little one is in the process of learning to match colours. These toys have been super helpful for teaching him the different colours and how to match them🤍
Here are some great items for an outdoor themed Easter Basket! This gifts are also great for any child who loves hiking, camping, or just exploring outside.
These are all the things I packed in my hospital bag! From breastfeeding items to baby clothes and postpartum care, I have compiled a list of items I would recommend to pack in your hospital bag! I didn’t feel like a was missing anything while at the hospital. I was happy to have several outfit changes and burp cloths available for baby girl!
As a mom to 3 girls and a nurse these are things I found essential to my diaper bag.
For all medications/medical devices I urge you to reach out to your child’s pediatrician prior to starting anything me!
Here are a few mommy- (and kid) approved play-learning apps that my daughter loves to play and I have found to be great with teaching a whole host of topics from letter sounds, reading to STEM type activities, problem solving and emotions. I love that these allow for a safe screen-time environment for my daughter where she can play independently and allow her to explore and become curious about learning (without worrying about inappropriate content or ads). I've included some apps that are free, some paid and some with a free tier or free trial.
Planning a backyard party that doesn't fizzle out after twenty minutes is harder than it sounds — especially when half the kids are bored and the adults are just standing around. If you've ever watched a sad deflated piñata barely survive one swing, this is the lineup that turned my yard into the neighborhood party spot. Took me about six parties and a lot of candy-on-the-ground disasters to nail this down.
As a busy mom, I’ve learned that having the right baby products makes all the difference. Here are some of our absolute favorites—items that have genuinely made our days easier, our nights smoother, and our routines sweeter.
✨ Nuna Car Seat
Our ride-or-die from day one. Safe, sturdy, lightweight, and incredibly easy to install. Baby stays snug and comfortable, and I stay confident knowing we’re using one of the safest seats on the market.
🛁 4-in-1 Baby Bathtub
This little tub grows with baby—from newborn to sitter—so bath time has been stress-free from the start. Supportive, comfy, and perfect for those sweet nightly routines.
👶 Dearly Boutique Favorites
Soft, dreamy baby clothes that feel like butter on their skin. The quality is amazing, and the neutral, earthy tones make every outfit look adorable and timeless.
💧 Haakaa Milk Collector
A true milk-saving miracle. It catches every drop on the opposite breast during feedings, and it’s helped me build a freezer stash without even trying.
📹 Momcozy Baby Monitor
Crystal clear picture, great range, and no Wi-Fi needed. I can check on baby from anywhere in the house, day or night, and the battery life is amazing.
🌙 Baby Swaddles
The only thing that keeps our little one snug, soothed, and asleep longer. We use breathable, stretchy swaddles that wrap perfectly and make nap times 10x easier.
🛏️ Crib Setup
Their cozy little sleep space—simple, safe, and calm. A firm mattress, fitted sheet, and nothing extra. It’s our go-to spot for naps, early morning stretches, and transitions to independent sleep.
…and more little essentials we love!
From pacifiers and sound machines to baby lotions and cozy blankets—we’re all about products that make life simple, safe, and sweet for both baby and mama.
The honest, emotional, and practical list I wish someone handed me before my world shifted. From game-changing products to comforting truths—this one’s for the new mamas (and the future ones).
Great for the Dad or Grandpa that has storys he likes to tell. I wish I had written down my dads stories. This is a great way to preserve your family history for future generations.
I love browsing a good gift list which gave me the idea of putting all my best gifts in one giant list. Over the years, I have tuned into what makes a great gift. For me, the key in gift-giving is choosing something someone wants but won’t buy for themselves. This list was carefully created with gifts I either own or have given or received. Each product or item is super good quality! Trust me, you will find something for everyone (even the hardest to shop for) on your list!
Everything you need to have a perfect toy kitchen for your little one! Great ideas if you find a hand me down kitchen that doesn’t come with food or dishes. Keeping everything wooden just lasts longer and looks more beautiful. You can also DIY whatever you like out of wood scraps or things you have around the house. Use acrylic paints and mod podge to turn odds and ends into treasured favorites. There are tons of fun learning toys that also work perfectly in a toy kitchen.
Every night was the same fight. He'd strip off whatever plain pajamas I put on him and run around in his underwear like a feral raccoon. The second I started buying PJs with characters he actually recognized, bedtime went from a 45-minute standoff to him voluntarily getting dressed. If your kid treats regular pajamas like a punishment, this list took me way too long to put together so you don't have to suffer through it.
Hey Mama's! Where my exclusive pumpers at? Or do you combo feed? Look no further for a list that has some great must haves to get you through this journey! Let's face it, we spend countless hours with these machines and the least we can do is make it as bearable as possible! These were some of my fav products that got me through my pumping journey!
Everyone’s pregnancy is different. Sometimes it is ROUGH — believe me I get it. I lost 20 pounds the first part of my pregnancy as I was very sick. Then around 22 weeks started feeling better! Here are some of the things that are helped me survive during that time.
These are items that my daughter uses almost everyday that she loves and that I love her to use! I will continue to share the things that help keep her safe, clean, and having fun!
Motherhood: When your kids are wearing brand new clothes and you are wearing the same underwear you owned before they were born. Check out some of my favourite outfits and accessories for kids.
From skin care to house hold items. These helped my baby’s eczema flair ups happen less frequently. One thing to remember is unscented and natural products work best with eczema. Makes the biggest difference.
Gift ideas for the little boys who are impossible to shop for. I picked fun, age-appropriate toys for ages 2-4 that encourage building, movement, creativity and pretend play with a mix of big Christmas surprises and gifts they'll actually keep playing with.
Some of my favorite go to baby items. This is for babies/moms or moms to be. There are a lot of items on the market and these are just a few practical things I love and trust.
As a first-time mom myself, I have firsthand experience in how hard postpartum can be. In December of 2022, I had my twin girls via emergency cesarean at 35 weeks' gestation. Unfortunately, nothing went according to my birth plan, and I was extremely unprepared. I struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety and lost myself along this new journey of being a mother to two. I have recently begun a self-care and self-love journey to find myself again, my new self! I am changing my view on postpartum entirely and trying to look at it as an exciting new chapter in my life! Here, I have put together several lists with hopes I can reach new mothers who may also be struggling, to finally find the light at the end of the tunnel and begin to truly love and take care of your new self, and understand it is okay to mourn your past self.
heading to the beach with a toddler (or two)? i’ve learned the hard way that a little prep goes a long way when you're chasing tiny littles across the sand. this list includes all the things that make our beach trips smoother—snacks that don’t melt instantly, shade that actually works, and the one genius hack for getting sand off sticky little feet. i use this for my 3 year-old twins, but it totally works whether you’ve got one toddler or a whole crew. it’s all about keeping them happy, comfy, and (somewhat) contained so you can maybe sit down for two minutes. maybe.
Be ready for every baby visit with this complete list of grandma-approved baby essentials for your home. From overnight sleepovers to weekend stays, discover must-have baby gear, feeding supplies, nursery basics, toys, safety items, and comfort essentials to keep your grandbaby happy, safe, and comfortable at Grandma’s house. (I'm Nonnie to the Grand children )
Wonderful things to add to a girly nursery for your future baby girl 🤗 I’m a first time mom and these are some things I have or would love to have for my baby girl. It’s so cute and girly 💕
As a mom of four—including 4-year-old twins, one of whom is nonverbal and on the autism spectrum—I’ve tried a lot of sensory toys over the years. My sensory-seeking kiddo loves movement, textures, sounds, and anything that keeps his hands and mind busy. After experimenting with so many options, these are the toys that truly stood out for him.
What makes this list even more special is that my neurotypical children enjoy these toys just as much. They’re engaging, durable, and fun for all kids—not just those with sensory needs. Everything on this list has been tested in real life, in the chaos of a busy household, and has kept all four of my kids entertained, regulated, and happy.
These toys encourage exploration, support sensory needs, and offer calming or stimulating input depending on the moment. Most importantly, they’re items my children actually reach for on their own—again and again.
As a dad of three who spent years battling iPad addiction, I know how hard it is to find screen-free activities that actually hold attention. I curated these 15 incredible STEM kits, magnetic architecture sets, and mechanical engineering builds that keep my kids focused, building, and learning for hours on end.
Beach days with toddlers aren’t relaxing… they’re a full setup 😅 This is exactly what I bring so I’m not running back to the condo every 30 minutes or dealing with meltdowns by noon.”
If you’re looking for fun, low-stress ways to make the holidays special for your kids, this list is for you!
I’ve gathered my favorite family-friendly Halloween and Christmas activities that are easy to plan and full of magic. From spooky but not scary ideas to cozy winter traditions, these are the moments your kids will remember.
Perfect for busy moms who want to create memories without adding more chaos 😊👻🎄
As a mom of three kids, these are what got me through. These are my absolute must haves. If I had a fourth baby, all of this would either be repurchased or reused.
Children need a balance of toys. Close-ended toys are those with a defined outcome. They offer children a sense of direction, structure, and the happiness and confidence that comes with completing a task successfully. Here are my top recommendations for intentional close-ended toys.
As an inspiring teacher, I'm always on the lookout for resources and strategies that genuinely make a difference. These are the classroom recommendations I swear by – the tried-and-true methods and tools that have transformed my teaching and helped my students thrive. From engaging activities to organizational tips, I'm sharing what works best for creating a positive and effective learning environment.
Looking for fun and easy crafts to do with your kids at home? This list is full of creative, mess-friendly DIY projects that make family time more special – without breaking the bank or your patience! From quick 15-minute crafts and seasonal favorites to eco-friendly ideas and keepsakes you'll treasure forever, these activities are perfect for busy moms who want to keep their kids entertained, learning, and having fun. Whether it's a rainy day, school break, or just “we're bored” afternoon, you'll find simple crafts here that spark creativity and connection. All ideas use affordable, kid-safe supplies you can find online or around the house. Easy. Affordable. Fun for all ages.
Looking for adorable holiday gifts for your toddlers?! Look no further, I got you! These gifts are practical, fun, not to mention so CUTE! Ranging from ages 1.5-5 years old, check out my list for awesome ideas!
My kitchen is 80 square feet. When we brought our first baby home, every high chair I looked at was the size of a recliner and weighed 30 pounds. I spent weeks hunting down compact, foldable, and slim baby feeding gear that actually works in a small space. If you live in an apartment or a house where the kitchen doubles as the dining room, hallway, and office, this list took me months to put together so you don't have to.
As a mom of 11-month old twins, these are my most-used and loved items. If you’re a mom, you’ll understand how much of a difference it makes when something can make your life easier, and all of these things have made mine SIGNIFICANTLY easier, especially handling two at a time!
Our go-to supplies for fostering early development and independence. Featuring items that support fine motor skills, practical life activities, and the foundational concepts that turn curiosity into simple, meaningful learning.
Cute + practical Target finds for toddlers—from toys and gear to cozy blankets and everyday essentials. 🧸✨
This list contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
Traveling with a toddler is no joke, so these are the things that actually make it easier for us. Snacks, entertainment, and anything that keeps my little one comfy and busy on the go. Whether we're on a plane, a train, or a long car ride, these are my must-haves to keep everybody happy.
Looking for practical new parent gifts and baby shower essentials that truly make those first months easier? Navigating sleep deprivation, endless diaper changes, feeding schedules, and nursery clutter can overwhelm any growing family. This curated gift guide features high-impact, problem-solving baby gadgets, nursery organizers, soothing sleep aids, and postpartum recovery essentials. Discover how to take the stress out of baby prep, streamline daily routines, and pick memorable, high-utility gifts new parents will use every day.
Here I will try to sum up all my favorite toys that promote speech and language development, which are easy to handle, that will your kids love, use a lot, and that actually will be good investment, to pass on, to save for your next baby, and so on.
If your toddler is constantly asking for your phone, this list is for you. These are screen-free toys that encourage building, pretend play, creativity, movement, and independent play without needing batteries or a screen. I especially love the ones that can grow with them instead of being forgotten after a week.
If you're doing up a care package for your bestie who is about to pop or newly postpartum, here is my curated list to make her feel comforted in those early days and help get her feeling back to herself!
My littles and I love all things Monster Jam, and they have more Monster trucks than I can possibly count. These are some of their and my favorites to date, as well as some of the coolest transforming haulers and tracks!
I found some great toys for my 4-year-old that encourage creativity, learning, and imagination. They’ve been such a hit at home — perfect for keeping her engaged while having tons of fun!