as a mom of a toddler, i have to say that i was not prepared (and still am not) for most of the things that come with being a toddler parent. but, that's why i'm here to share several things that have helped me through this stage so far!
If you're a first time parent & wondering what you absolutely need to buy, this is a list of my personal favorites. As a first time mom, I can tell you these were a life savor!
Breastfeeding is the hardest thing I have ever done. There's a new challenge around every corner. I’ve gathered the products that truly supported me through every feeding journey! I hope these will make your life easier, too.
For pumps I use the Momcozy s12 (wearable pumps) and Soectra S2 (the portable one).
Boo baskets aren’t necessary but a fun way to add a little fall magic for your kids! Our little family likes to do this because we don’t go Trick or Treating Halloween night!🎃
These are our picks for curriculum for the levels we are currently homeschooling. Remember as you are going through the levels to not get stuck on grade level but focus on where your child is at. What their needs are!
Time between Grandparents and Grandkids is precious, and too often too fleeting. As my own grandkids are now teens, I look back on that Holiday time with them as very special, and I'm more determined than ever to make our remaining time together something they will cherish for the rest of their lives. I wanted to share some of that information, and also some keepsake ornaments, with you.
it doesn't always need to be a big vacation for a fun trip! We have a ton of stuff to do right in our own state! Add your favorite in the comments! We are always looking for new fun places!
My top recommendation for Disney with young kids. Park days are long and can be hard with littles, here are some practical things to help keep the magic alive on those long days.
Let’s be honest toddlers can lose interest in toys faster than we can open the box. 😂 These are the toys that have actually kept my toddler entertained, encouraged in independent play, and have been used over and over again. If you’re looking to spend your money on toys that are actually worth it, start with these!
I started my baby registry when I was 3 months pregnant. As it's my first pregnancy, I want to make sure I get everything right. What started out as a list for myself turned into a HUGE list that (thankfully) I'm blessed to have help with. All these items are extensively researched and things I've actually purchased and tried out (to the best of my ability since baby boy is not here yet!) Hopefully, they help you build your registry!
From Spring-Winter create fun sensory bins to create little hands busy and minds. The bin doesn’t have to be fancy, use items from home,dollar tree,craft stores etc
Educational toddler toys turn playtime into learning by building skills like problem-solving, coordination, and creativity. Safe and engaging, they help little ones grow with confidence while having fun.
After living in the Twin Cities for over a decade—five of those as a parent and many before as a teacher—I’ve explored a lot of kid-friendly spots. From cozy coffee shops with play areas to massive playgrounds and hands-on museums, this area is packed with places where kids can burn off energy while parents actually enjoy themselves too. Some spots are perfect for a low-key morning with little ones, while others make for full-blown adventures that even older kids will love. I’ve been on both sides—coordinating field trips as a teacher and now chasing my own kids around—and I’m still finding new gems all the time!
What I love most is how many different kinds of outings are possible here. There are spots where kids can climb, run, and explore freely, places designed to spark creativity and curiosity, and even restaurants and breweries that actually welcome families instead of just tolerating them. Whether you’re looking for an easy weekday outing, an indoor option for winter, or a way to make errands more fun, this list is packed with places that make parenting a little easier—and a lot more fun!
As a mom of 3 girls, I know how overwhelming those first few months can feel — so I put together this list of baby must-haves that truly make life smoother, calmer, and cozier for both you and your little one. These aren’t just cute products — they’re lifesavers that help you stay organized, sleep better, and actually enjoy those quiet moments between feeds and naps. 🍼 My tip: Focus on quality over quantity. It’s better to have a few items you love and trust than a nursery full of things you never reach for. Here’s what you’ll find in this list: ✨ The softest swaddles that make bedtime peaceful. 💤 Baby monitors that actually give you peace of mind. 🚼 Diaper-changing gear that keeps things clean and quick. 👶 Gentle skincare for baby’s sensitive skin. 🧺 Everyday helpers that make mom life feel a little easier (and prettier). 💡 Pro tip: Keep a small “night station” by your bed — diapers, wipes, water, snacks, and burp cloths. Midnight changes are so much easier when everything’s within arm’s reach. Whether you’re expecting, a first-time parent, or shopping for a thoughtful gift, these are the baby essentials I’d buy again in a heartbeat.
Babies are not one size fits all! here’s everything my child has used and loved whether he still uses it or not. As a first time mom. I have tried all the things and all the recommendations and now I can tell you what you need.
Don’t sweat it if you missed holiday gifts for your child’s teacher. It’s always a good time to say thank you, and sometimes the unexpected gifts “just because” are the best!
The mom essentials I actually use and love as a busy mom of three. From everyday home favorites and time-saving products to self-care and on-the-go essentials, these are the items I reach for again and again—and confidently recommend to other moms.
Discover a curated selection of must-have products for expecting mothers, designed to offer both comfort and support throughout your pregnancy journey. From stylish maternity wear to soothing self-care essentials, each item is carefully chosen to make your days more comfortable and joyful. Don’t miss out on these high-quality products that every mom-to-be truly needs!
I love finding the **best picks for kids and grandkids—from infants to teens—**that make life easier and more fun for families. This curated list includes baby essentials, toddler outfits, kids clothing, and trendy teen styles that are comfortable, affordable, and easy to wear. From soft infant clothing and cozy pajamas to durable everyday outfits, school-ready looks, and special occasion styles, these pieces keep kids looking great and feeling comfortable all day. You’ll also find comfy shoes, fun accessories, and toys that spark creativity, making this your go-to for both fashion and play. Perfect for everyday wear, birthdays, and holiday gifts, these are trusted, family-approved finds that make dressing, playing, and gift-giving simple and stress-free.
Amazon Prime Days are here! I have put together products from baby to home essentials that are some of the best deals for prime day ✨️ *contains my amazon affiliate links
Cute baby shower party supplies that have the “we can bearly wait” theme. This is a good gender-neutral theme that can incorporate a lot of teddy bear decorations for the party, and balloons to match the invites if you get one with balloons on it.
These are toys we have gotten for my 12 month old that I actually think are worth buying. What makes them worth it? She likes playing with them and I believe they provide some sort of learning.
Raising a child with special needs is a journey full of love, learning, and unique challenges. Whether you're looking for sensory tools, communication aids, or everyday essentials to support your child's development, this list is made for you. Each item here is parent-approved, available on Amazon, and designed to make life easier and more joyful for children with special needs—right here in the U.S.
These are all the items I found most helpful for pregnancy and postpartum! I included what I highly recommend for maternity comfort, nursing, c-section recovery, and more!
All the gear and goodies that helped me breastfeed successfully as an oversupplier over a year! Breastfeeding is hard enough, let this list help you make it easier!
Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also be overwhelming at times. These are the little helpers that make everyday life feel lighter — from products that save time to comforts that bring calm. Simple things that let me spend less energy stressing and more time soaking up the sweet moments with my babies.
From lullabies to baby bops, this list is packed with a variety of music playlists sure to soothe your little one and introduce them to music. It's magical to see the music your baby loves!
Babies are expensive. There is no way of getting around it. When it comes down to it, all you really need is to feed and diaper your baby. Everything else is extra. So only get what YOU think that you personally need. This list is what I feel is helpful for my breastfed/cloth diapered baby.
You are doing amazing, Mama🥰
Sharing my favorite summer products for kids that help make pool days, outdoor adventures, and family memories even better! These are fun, practical finds that keep my boys entertained all summer long.
I have two kids and I have learned the hard way which day-out gear actually earns its space in the bag. This is what I pack for the zoo, the beach, soccer games, and long park afternoons. Every pick here solved a specific meltdown for me, and I put the honest caveats in the notes so you do not have to learn them the way I did.
As a mom of a 1yr old & 3 yr old. I curated a list of baby gear that I used for both kids and would use again. Including strollers, car seats & everyday must-haves. All mom-tested in real life and chosen for safety, convenience, and what actually gets used daily.
It can be extremely overwhelming preparing for a new baby, especially if you are a first time mom. There are so many different brands and items, it’s hard to know where to even start. As a first time mom of a nine month old baby girl, I want to help alleviate some of the stress that comes with shopping! These are items we use daily that work great for us, and make life so much easier.
I love this age. Four year olds are not toddlers anymore, but they also aren't quite school-age "kids" yet either. They have interests that range from Barbies to Spider Man to Disney Princesses to Legos to pretend play and more! Gifting for this age is so much fun, but it can also be tricky. By this age, they probably are starting to outgrow some of their "baby" toys and are starting to look at things like Lego sets or pretend make up or even early reading. It's important to cater to their interests and to respect their parents' preferences. Don't gift just another toy that'll get buried and forgotten. My list will help you stand out at the next birthday party for a 4 year old that you attend!
The gear, products and local lifesavers that got me through early motherhood in Vancouver. Rain ready essentials, hands free must haves, and the things I recommend to every new mom here. Tested by real Vancouver mom life.
these are some things that I could not live without my first time being post-partum & what I am going to use again in June after having my second baby!!
Top kid toys and fun activities that my kiddos love that helps to curb boredom. This list includes all toys: STEM, art, adventure, educational and more!!!
Looking for toys that actually help your toddler hit their developmental milestones? Toddlers learn best through active, open-ended play that engages their senses, challenges their problem-solving skills, and builds fine motor control. This curated collection brings together the best expert-approved, screen-free educational toys that toddlers genuinely love. From sensory exploration and language-building tools to early spatial reasoning and motor skills toys, these items are durable, highly engaging, and designed to grow with your child over the years.
As a first time mom, I had no idea what I needed but I did the research and bought these items that helped me so much especially in the new born phase.
Teens are always not the easiest to shop for. So I’ve put together an easy find and inexpensive Easter basket for you to give to your teen or tween for this holiday! From fidgets to self care you’re guaranteed to find something for your daughter, granddaughter, niece, etc this year!
Toddler life gets a little crazy! Let me help you navigate overconsumption and overwhelming items “every mom must have”. I’ll share my real thoughts and experiences even as life changes and additional kids are added to our family. I want to help you find what’s best your you family and the size of your family but also make your dollar count. We all know how important it is to have toddler products that help our daily life and don’t waste our precious time. They don’t stay this little forever. The chaos is bittersweet so let’s stay positive and share our best finds together!
As a first-time mom, these products have truly been lifesavers. Each one has made our daily routine easier, smoother, and so much more manageable. I’m obsessed with how much they’ve helped us!
As a first time mom myself, these things are either things I can’t live without, or things I wish I had! Prepping for motherhood is hard that first time because you have no idea what you need. Let me help!
*This list contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you
Some of my favorite books, games, toys, and supplies as a pediatric occupational therapist! I own & have used all of these in sessions.
For reference, I mostly see a ton of preschool aged kids!
I grew up in the ‘90s with undiagnosed autism. Even though I didn’t have a diagnosis back then, and I didn't have a clue what fidgets were, there were the childhood toys that were sensory gold. From toys that smell good to ones that keep your hands busy, I hope you enjoy this Y2K list.
I became a first time mom in June of 2025! I overthought and simultaneously underthought my registry until my head hurt. Hindsight is 20/20, truly. Here are things I received & absolutely used + things I wish I would’ve added now that I know better! 🤰🏻🍼
Pish posh to fall stuff! It's not too late to shop warm weather wardrobe staples for your little ones! If you're like many parents and aren't ready to be looking for fall clothes already, you've come to the right list! These are my favorite picks for babies and toddlers! Adorable matching sets at awesome prices! Beyond cute dresses - shorts - tees - and tanks, too! Tried and true baby clothing brands! Browse stuff from Jcrew Factory and MyTheresa (my favorite store for kids) - as well as Target and Kohls - Not every retailer has cleared their shelves of warmer weather items just yet! Don't despair. A lot of my suggestions are on clearance too!
Family-friendly camping gear, kid sleep solutions for tents, outdoor cooking must-haves, campsite setup tips, and realistic ways to make camping fun (not exhausting) for moms.