Goodness! Is it just me, or is everyone pregnant or chasing down a toddler right now? Baby showers and first birthday parties are filling up my summer calendar. Of course, all of these happy occasions require a gift, and I’m not one to give clothes or diapers (duh, I’m the Toy Geek). It can be tough to find just the right gift for the mom or baby that has it all.
I believe that the most important thing you can do when purchasing a gift for a baby is to make sure that it is age-appropriate. Sure, kids can grow into toys, but parents probably appreciate freeing up their closet space. I try to give simple toys as gifts, ones that don’t make too much noise and annoy mom and dad. I also think that a gift should come with an easy to use storage case if it comes with multiple pieces. I also like to give gifts that hold a child’s interest for more than six months. Here are several toys that I have found meet most of these criteria.
This adorable plush turtle is made by the Lamaze company (yes, that Lamaze). Not sure if mom already has a toy for the stroller, car seat or crib? This little turtle clips on to all of them. His limbs fold up inside for hide and seek, plus his belly features a baby-safe mirror.Tucker the Turtle is just one of the many toys sold by Lamaze, all of which feature a safe clip for maximum portability and minimal losses.
[$9.99 at Arsa Toys]
Another way to buy a toy that will be appreciated by kids and parents is to get one that offers several different activities that a baby will love as their motor and cognitive skills improve. Tiny the Elephant by Small Wonder Toys features a variety of textures, colors and sounds that will keep a baby interested as they develop. And good news for parents, most of the toys by Small Wonder Toys are surface washable.
[$33.35 at Arsa Toys]
Of course activity toys are great too. Blocks are great for the spatial and cognitive development of a baby, and these blocks are big and soft. These Knock-Knock Blocks by Small World Toys are great to stack, and of course, to knock down. Many of these blocks also feature peek-a-boo windows and mirrors. These are crib safe and since there are only 16 pieces, easy to keep confined.
[$21.95 at Arsa Toys]
As I’ve said before, I believe bath toys are one of the greatest gifts for a baby. They’re simple, usually free of loud sounds and flashing lights. Bath toys make a great inexpensive gift too, and chances are, the kids will play with them for many years. The little case on this one kind of breaks my easy storage rule, but if you paired them with a bucket or bath net, they would make a perfect gift.
[$9.00 at Arsa Toys]
