Baby Bath Time Essentials – Bath Tubs, Slings, Cushions, Bath Sponges, Bath Seats
Bath time can be one of the most enjoyable moments of the day for you and your baby. Your new baby may initially resist the unfamiliar routine, but as she grows, splashing around with colorful bath toys will become good “clean” fun.
A newborn’s skin is soft and delicate. Proper skin care and bathing can help maintain the health and texture of your baby’s skin. With all the diaper changes and wiping of baby’s mouth and nose after feedings, your baby only needs to be bathed two or three times a week. Bathing more often may cause your baby’s skin to become dry and cracked.
Baths can be given any time of day but it is best to bathe your baby before a feeding. Bathing a baby after feeding can cause spitting up as the baby is moved around during the bath and laid down flat when being dressed.
When you’re getting ready to bathe your baby, make sure the room is warm and free of drafts. Fill the tub or sink, and test the water for the proper temperature. Make sure the water is deep enough to cover your baby’s lower body and tummy. Remember, babies like to be warm when they’re taking a bath. Have all your supplies ready and nearby so you can dress your baby as soon as she is dry.
Some parents find a baby bathtub a waste of money, especially if they have a large kitchen sink. The kitchen sink is also a lot easier on your back. If you decide to use the kitchen sink, be sure to clean it with Lysol Antibacterial Kitchen Sink Cleaner and rinse well before you bathe your baby.
Things you’ll want to have handy at baby bath time are:
- Baby soap and shampoo
- Towel and Washcloth
- Creams or lotions
- Diaper
- Onesies and outfit
- Receiving Blanket
Here’s a handy tip for bathing newborns. Wrap the baby in a receiving blanket before you put her in the bath. Doing this keeps her arms and legs from flailing about, and she feels safe and secure. Slowly lower her into the bath, and gently unwrap the blanket in the water. Bath time should be a warm, happy, and fun experience.
Listed below are some wonderful products that will make bath time easier and fun for both parents and baby. If you like to shop online, like I do, just click on the designated website under the product you would like to buy and the product will pop right up on your screen. You are buying directly from the website featuring the product.
Baby Bathtubs
If you use a baby bathtub, choose a sturdy tub with a smooth rounded edge that will retain its shape when you carry it full of water. Select a tub without a ramp. In a bathtub with a ramp, the water pools at the end of the tub, and your baby sits in the open air; wet and cold. Your baby’s lower body and tummy should be covered with warm water when she is in the tub. Some baby bathtubs have a heat sensor pad that lets you know if the water is too hot. But never rely on the pad alone; always test the water with your wrist or elbow before you place your baby in the tub. The baby bathtub should have a drain plug and can be used in either a double or single kitchen sink, or in an adult bathtub.
Primo EuroBath
The EuroBath is the first “smart” bath because its unique anatomical shape keeps baby in the ideal bathing position and prevents him from slipping under the water. The extra-large 38-quart capacity and ability to place baby in two different positions make Primo’s EuroBath perfect for children from birth to 24 months.
You’ll get a lot of use out of this baby bathtub because of its size. When your baby gets big enough to sit up on his own it’s a great tub to put into your adult size bath tub.
Fisher Price Bath Center (Ocean Wonders or Rain Forest Design)
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
From earliest infancy to toddler-hood, the Fisher-Price Bath Center provides three stages that grow with your baby.
For newborns, the sling is attached to both ends of the tub like a hammock. This creates a platform that gently cradles baby while in the bath.
For infants, the sling attaches to only the narrow end of the tub, providing trunk and neck support for those that can’t sit up by themselves yet.
For the toddler position, the sling can be removed altogether giving baby more room in the tub. Included with tub is a rinsing cup, water sprinkling toy, and a fish shaped toy that doubles as a water temperature gauge.
The First Years Infant to Toddler Tub with Sling
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
All the security, comfort and convenience parents and growing babies need in a tub. Its deep ergonomic design holds baby better for bathing.
This tub fits both double and single sinks. Mesh sling with padded headrest provides extra comfort and support to cradle even the smallest baby. I prefer to remove the sling so baby can be directly in the water where he will stay nice and warm. A special drain plug alerts parents if the water is too hot.
Baby Bath Slings & Cushions
If you don’t want to spend money on a baby bathtub and are not particularly happy about putting your baby directly in the kitchen sink, then these baby bath slings are the perfect solution. A bath sling or cradle can be used inside a sink, inside an infant bathtub or inside the adult bathtub giving parents multiple ways to easily wash their baby. I find using any one of the bath slings or cushions listed below a very convenient and easy way to bathe your baby.
Safety 1st Bath Sling
Designed to hold newborns snugly, the soft sling and frame support your baby while the padded terry cloth headrest ensures comfort during bathing. Cushioned legs and sides are PBA free. Compact for easy storage and travel.
Dex Products EZ Bather Deluxe
The EZ Bather is designed to keep baby’s head above water. The contoured frame supports baby’s head and body allowing you to bathe baby easily, comfortably and safely. Sitting in the tub, the soft, vinyl-coated frame is safely padded and slip-resistant for security. Legs can be folded down for easy travel and storage. Fabric is machine washable.
Summer Infant Fold N’ Store Tub Time Bath Sling
The all-new Folding Bath Sling is a must-have for space and comfort conscious parents. The first bath sling to completely fold flat for storage, it is also contoured and cradling so baby doesn’t slip and slide during bath time.
Summer Infant Mother’s Touch Comfort Bath Support
The Mother’s Touch Comfort Bath Support is like putting baby on a cloud. The soft cushioned pillow makes it easier to bathe a wiggly newborn. Convenient kickstand also elevates baby’s head for better bath time interaction and comfort. Folds easily for storage and travel.
Leachco Safer Bather – Infant Bath Pad
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Safer Bather bath pad has all the features to assure baby’s bath is as safe as it can be. The head is elevated to keep water out of baby’s ears, and it won’t break or pull apart like some sponge pads. Soft polyester filling dries quickly and is mold and mildew resistant.
Munchkin Inflatable Bath Cradle
The Inflatable Bath Cradle features a White Hot safety disc that turns white when the water is too hot, then turns blue when the water is a safe temperature for your baby. Cushioned edges and slip-resistant foam keep your baby comfortable and secure throughout the entire bath
Summer Infant Mother’s Touch Baby Bather
The Mothers’ Touch Baby Bather grows with your baby from newborn to infant. The bather’s large frame, cushioned edges, and soft mesh sling seat help ensure your baby’s comfort and safety at bath time. A deluxe head support adds extra stability for your infant and can be removed as your baby grows.
Baby Bath Sponges
Before your newborn can be submerged in a real bath, a bath sponge provides a soft, comfortable place to give your baby a sponge bath. Place the bath sponge on a bathroom counter or kitchen counter and use water from the tap to bathe baby.
You can also place the bath sponge on a changing table, bring a container of water to the changing table and sponge bathe baby there. As your baby grows you can use the bath sponge in your infant bathtub or kitchen sink. After using the bath sponge, hang it in the open air so it can dry thoroughly before its next use.
Summer Infant Comfy Bath Sponge
The Comfy Bath Sponge is the perfect economical choice for bathing your newborn. Contoured non-slip sponge cradles baby alone or can act as an insert for the kitchen sink or baby bath tub. The Comfy Bath Sponge gives baby additional head, neck and back support while being bathed
Safety 1st Comfy Bath Cushion
This uniquely contoured shaped, hypo-allergenic foam bath cushion comes in a fun frog design. Perfect for newborn sponge bathing and provides for infant bathtub cushioning.
Baby Bath Seats
The most important thing when you are bathing your child is keeping her safe in the tub. Babies who can sit up on their own are ready for a bath seat, but do not rely on a bath seat for safety. Using a bath seat prevents your child from crawling around or standing up in the tub. All bath seats should have suctions cups securely fastened to the seat. All suction cups should securely adhere to the smooth surface of the bathtub. A straddle bar and safety belt on the bath seat keep your child from slipping into the water. Bath safety tip: Never leave your child alone or with a sibling in a tub of water
Primo Infant Bath Seat
Bathing a newborn is easier and safer now with Primo’s Infant Bath Seat. Now you don’t have to be afraid of dropping a wet, slippery, wiggly baby.
This plastic seat fits in large sinks or in your tub. The foam lining and design provide maximum support and comfort for baby. Designed for a baby from birth to six months old, the seat cradles the infant by supporting the legs and arms while bathing, helping to prevent the baby from slipping under the water. Suctions cups hold the seat securely in place. Holds infants up to 18 pounds and 28 inches long.
Juvenile Solutions Aquababy Bath Ring
The high contoured back and ring combined with an anti-slip seat makes this bath ring an extremely safe way to bathe a baby when he or she is beginning to sit up.
The six legs screw-fit into the bath ring and four large suction cups on the underside of the seat adjust to fit the shape of your bath providing enhanced safety and stability. Not suitable for non slip surfaces. Suitable for babies 1-16 months, maximum weight 28 pounds.
Dream Baby Fold-Away Bathtub Safety Seat
Available at Amazon.comThe Fold-Away Dream Baby bath seat makes it easy to position your baby in and out of the seat with a front bar that opens for easy access. I find the front bar that opens to be a very useful feature.
Safety 1st Tubside Bath Seat
Washing your baby in the tub can be hard on your back. This bath seat does the swiveling for you, offering easy access to your baby’s front, back, and sides while you stay in one comfortable position.
This seat features an adjustable built-in restraint. Its “unique” arm locks onto the side of the tub to provide more stability for baby and a soft elbow rest for parents. Great bath seat for bathing twins at the same time.
Baby Bath-Time Cleansing Products
When giving your baby a bath, you will want to use only the best products for his tender skin. Look for hypoallergenic formulas that won’t irritate. Avoid heavy scented soaps and lotions, which can dry out delicate skin. Look for tear-free shampoos. If you find that a product irritates your baby’s skin, try another brand. Below are listed some of the most popular, tried and true baby bath soaps, all-in-one body wash and shampoos and shampoos. They are all great products. A lot of parents will choose a product based on the scent. Some parents prefer a perfume free product.
Baby Bath Soaps
All of these well-known baby bath soaps are mild and gentle on baby’s skin. Just squirt a little in baby’s bath water, no need to rinse off before taking baby out of the bath.
Playtex Baby Magic Gentle Baby Bath
Huggies Natural Care Baby Wash
Johnson’s Moisture Care Baby Wash
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Johnson’s Bedtime Bath
Aveeno Baby Calming Comfort Bath
All-in-One Body Wash and Shampoo
If you don’t want to bother with separate baby bath soaps and shampoos, wash your baby from head to toe with one product. All of these products can be added to the bath water. There is no need to rinse baby after using these products.
Playtex Baby Magic Gentle Hair & Body Wash
Aveeno Baby Wash & Shampoo
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Johnson’s Head-To-Toe Baby Wash
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Mustela 2-in-1 Hair and Body Wash
Aquaphor Gentle Wash & Shampoo
California Baby Super Sensitive Shampoo & Body Wash
Burts Bees – Baby Bee Shampoo & Wash
Vapor Bath Products
When your baby has a cold, you want to do everything you can to soothe and comfort her. The menthol vapors of a vapor bath provide soothing comfort for colds and sniffles. I find these products to be very relaxing for a fussy, stuffy baby.
Johnson’s Soothing Vapor Bath
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
California Baby Colds & Flu Bubble Bath with Aromatherapy
California Baby Overtired & Cranky Aromatherapy Bubble Bath
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Shampoos
Baby’s eyes are sensitive to irritants. You want to use the mildest of shampoos, and a shampoo that’s tear-free and hypoallergenic. When washing baby’s hair just apply a small amount of shampoo. A little goes a long way.
Johnson’s Baby Shampoo
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Mustela Foam Shampoo for Newborns
Aveeno Baby Essential Moisture Shampoo
Huggies Natural Care Baby Shampoo
Cradle-Cap Shampoos
Cradle cap is a condition that causes baby’s scalp to flake. This condition is characterized by a yellowish, scaly crust on baby’s head that’s caused by over-active sweat and oil glands in the scalp. Cradle Cap is not pleasant to look at but is not serious. Gentle treatment with a cradle cap shampoo usually relieves this condition.
Gentle Naturals Baby Cradle Cap Treatment
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Bella B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Shampoo
Baby Cradle Cap Natural Remedy Treatment
Little Star Happy Halo Cradle Cap Remedy
Baby Hooded Bath Towels
Parents often think that they will just use adult towels for baby, but adult towels are too big and cumbersome for a small baby and they don’t have a hood to keep baby’s head nice and warm after a bath. Some hooded towels are thin and not very absorbent. Hooded towels should be made of thick, absorbent terry-cloth or terry velour material. Not only do they absorb more moisture but keep baby nice and warm during the drying process.
SwaddleDesigns Terry Velour Hoodie Towel
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
SwaddleDesigns Organic Cotton Hooded Towel
Circo Infant Hooded Bath Towel
Infant Circo Bath Wraps
Character Towels & Washcloths
American Baby Cotton Terry Hooded Towel Set
Luvable Friends Super-Soft Hooded Bath Wraps
Fisher Price Rainforest Hooded Towel Set 2-Pack
Bumkins Organic Cotton Hooded Towel Sets
Washcloths
As with towels, adult washcloths are too big for washing baby’s tiny face and body. Baby washcloths are smaller than standard-size washcloths, which makes them easier to work with when you’re washing your little one. Washcloths should be made of soft, absorbent terry cloth.
SwaddleDesigns Washcloths
Fisher Price Rain Forest Washcloths Set 4-Pack
American Baby Company Cotton Terry Wash Cloths
Luvable Friends 4-Pack Washcloths
Nuby Soft Cotton Washcloths 4-PK
Bumkins Organic Cotton Washcloths
Baby Grooming Products and Health Care Kits
Keep baby looking good, at home or on the go, with hair neat and nails trimmed.
Brush and Comb Sets
Whether your baby has a lot or a little bit of hair, and whether it’s straight or curly, thick or fine, a brush and comb make it easy to care for and style. Baby brushes have soft bristles that are gentle on baby’s scalp. Baby combs have fine teeth with rounded tips for pull-free combing.
Sassy Brush & Comb Set
Nuk Baby’s First Comb and Brush Set
The First Years Arc Comfort Comb/Brush Set
Safety 1st Easy Grip Brush and Comb
Nuby Comb & Brush
Cradle Cap Care Kit
A Cradle Cap Care Kit includes unique tools to help you gently and effectively treat your baby’s cradle cap. Use the dual-sided mitt to apply and rub in shampoo or baby oil. Then use the 2-in-1 brush and comb to remove the cradle cap.
Safety 1st Cradle Cap Care Kit
Available at Perfectlysafe.com
Available at Buybuybaby.com
Baby Nail Scissors
The best time to trim nails is when baby is asleep. These child-sized scissors feature safety rounded tips and easy-grip handles. If you keep baby swaddled and just expose one hand at a time, it will be a much easier process.
Sassy Soft Grip Scissors & Clippers
Tee-Zed F312 New Baby Safety Scissors
Baby Nail Clippers
Many parents are afraid to cut little nails because they are hard to see. These nail clippers feature a magnifying lens that makes trimming a child’s tiny, soft nails easier. The Graco Liteup clippers even features a bright LED light so you can see your baby’s nails more easily, you can even cut them in the dark while she sleeps. When clipping tiny, soft nails, be sure to pull back on the finger itself fully exposing the nail, so as not to accidentally clip the tip of the finger.
Safety 1st Clear View Tweezers & Nail Clipper
The First Years Deluxe Nail Clipper with Magnifier
Safety 1st Fold-Up Baby Nail Clipper
Emery Boards
If you don’t feel comfortable cutting or clipping your baby’s nails, you can file them with an emery board. Any brand will do.
Grooming Sets
Good grooming habits start by having the right tools for the job. Get everything you need to keep your little one cuter than ever, all in one convenient set.
Safety 1st Complete Grooming Kit
Keep baby groomed on the go. Kit includes a soft grip brush, soft grip comb, soft grip toothbrush, baby scissors, fold-up nail clippers, four The complete grooming kit contains 10 essentials items for keeping emery boards and a zippered travel case.
Safety 1st Detach & Go Grooming Kit
The Detach & Go Grooming Kit contains 18 essentials items for keeping your baby groomed on the go. The bi-fold case detaches so you can take it everywhere. Kit includes steady grip nail clippers, newborn cradle cap comb, gentle care brush & comb set, 8 emery boards, infant toothbrush/gum stimulator & toddler toothbrush, no scratch mittens (2 pairs) and detach and go travel case.
Health Care Kits
If you think your baby is sick, having the right health care items on hand helps you determine if baby has a temperature, relieve a stuffy nose and administer the right amount of medication. There’s nothing worse, if you think your baby’s sick, than having to run out during this stressful time, to get a thermometer or medicine dropper.
Safety 1st Complete Health Care Kit
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
This kit contains 7 essentials items to help when baby is sick. Set includes a digital thermometer and protective case, nasal aspirator, medicine dropper with spill guard, fold-up nail clipper, medicine spoon, emergency contact card and a zippered travel case.
Combination Grooming and Healthcare Kits
Keep everything you need to care for and groom your baby all in one convenient place. These kits contain both grooming and healthcare items for your baby.
Safety 1st Detach & Go Grooming & Healthcare Kit
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
This kit includes 25 essential items for good grooming and health. Kit includes gentle care brush and comb set, clear tip nasal aspirator, easy fill medicine syringe, easy fill medicine spoon, toddler toothbrush, steady grip nail clippers, digital thermometer with protective cover, baby scissors, tweezers, 12 emery boards, no-scratch mittens (1 pair) and a detach & go travel case.
The First Years American Red Cross Deluxe Health & Grooming Kit
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
This set includes labeled holders for each grooming item, an infant brush and comb, sure-grip nail clippers and nail scissors, a fingertip toothbrush and toddler toothbrush, emery boards, a hospital-style nasal aspirator, a digital thermometer with case, a medicine dropper with travel case, a medicine spoon, a medicine dispenser, and a shake-and-see rattle. The zippered case has a storage pocket for extra items
Baby Bath-Time Accessories
I find having to kneel on a hard floor or resting your elbows on the side of the bath tub to be very painful and uncomfortable. The following accessories will add comfort and ease to the bathing experience for both parents and baby.
Elbow and Knee Savers
Safety 1st Tubside Kneeler and Step Stool
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Enjoy greater comfort as you bathe your baby. Protect your knees and elbows while you’re leaning over the tub at bath time. Tubside Kneeler coverts to a step stool to help your toddler reach the sink. Slip resistant grips help keep tub kneeler and step stool in place. Machine washable bag holds bath accessories.
Aquatopia Deluxe Safety Easy Bath Kneeler
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
The deluxe extra large Aquatopia safety easy bath kneeler has anti-slip cushioned pad for your knees and extra padding for your elbows. Easy to use, the kneeler unfolds in seconds. Made from water friendly neoprene, it has pockets that are perfect for soaps and shampoos.
Kid Kushion Tub Kushions
Available at Amazon.comKeep knees and elbows pain and bruise free. Place these soft foam cushions on the floor and side of the tub to cushion knees and elbows while giving your baby a bath. Non slip mat has suction bubbles that grip the floor.
The First Years Sit & Store Parent Bathing Seat & Step stool
Available at Amazon.comEnjoy greater comfort while bathing your child with this sturdy tub-side seat that doubles as a container for bath toys. Give tired knees a rest and help keep the bathroom clutter free. Side vents encourage air-flow to keep toys dry and mildew-free. Sit and Store adjusts to two heights and can be used as a stable step stool to help older children reach the sink.
Spray Attachments for Bath or Sink
A spray attachment makes it easier to shampoo and rinse baby’s hair without getting water in her face.
Sassy Happy Hippo Bath Shower Spray
Sassy’s cute Hippo Bath Shower Spray easily attaches to bathtub faucets or kitchen faucets, making bathing baby easier for you and your baby. Not only can you wash and rinse baby’s hair, but rinse baby with clean water before taking him out of the tub. Hippo’s cheeks change colors if water is too hot.
Bath Visors
Little ones don’t like getting water or soap in their eyes. During bath time, visors help keep shampoo away from baby’s face.
Sassy Bath & Sun Visors
Babies don’t like water in their face or the sun in their eyes. Whether taking a bath, playing outdoors or going to the beach Sassy’s cute, colorful bath and sun visors help portect your baby’s face and eyes.
Your child will love wearing these adorable bath and sun visors.
Toy Bags and Organizers
I hate a messy bathroom. Toys left in the bath tub or scattered all over the floor. Toys left on the floor can be stepped on or tripped over becoming a safety hazard. Keep the bathroom tidy by storing bath toys in a toy bag. Toy bags use easy-to-install and quick-to-remove suction cups that mount securely to any smooth surface.
Safety 1st Bath Toy Bag
Safety 1st Bath Toy Bag is a colorful stretchy mesh bag with 2 suction cups to conveniently hold the bag with bath toys to the wall, encouraging your child to put his toys away after bath time.
Sassy Bath Toy Organizer
Available at Amazon.comThe Bath Toy Organizer allows you to scoop toys into the basket after bath time is over and hang it from your shower head or curtain rod to keep bath toys clean and organized. The holes in the Bath Toy Organizer allow toys to drip dry quickly.
Munchkin Bath Friends Toy Organizer
Available at Amazon.comThe Munchkin Bath Friends Toy Organizer has a delightful seascape design that captivates kids. It easily hangs from the tub, walls or showerhead. The mesh bottom lets water drain out so toys are kept clean and dry.
Skip Hop Tubby Bath Toy Organizer
Available at Amazon.comThis toy organizer is made of washable neoprene and mesh. It features a stay put mounting plate with 4 suction cups which secures the bag on tiles or glass.
Tubby allows water toys to dry out and stay mildew free between baths. It’s stretchy, wide mouth makes toys easy to find and grab.
Kidco Bath Storage Basket
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Keep all your bath time essentials and toys neatly organized and close-at-hand. Holds bath toys, soap, shampoo and more.
The basket adjusts to fit most standard tubs. Divider separates toys from bath care items.
Baby Bath-Time Safety Products
The bathroom can be a hazardous place for your child. Here are some bath time safety products I recommend to make bath time safer for your baby.
Bath Thermometers
Prevent accidental scalding by using a bath thermometer, which measures the actual temperature of the water and indicates the ideal range for your baby’s bath. Placing baby in bath water that’s too hot can not only burn baby’s skin but can be very traumatic, making bath time an unpleasant experience for your baby.
Munchkin White Hot Duck Bath Toy
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
This adorable rubber ducky has a safety disc at the bottom that tells when the water is too hot, then lets you know when it’s safe to put your baby in. And, it’s just the right size for little hands to hold and cuddle.
Safety 1st Bath Pal Thermometer
This friendly floating duck helps you make sure baby’s bath water is a comfortable temperature. Along the side is a thermometer that lets you know what the temperature of the water is, so you can adjust it if you need to.
Aquatopia Deluxe Safety Bath Thermometer Alarm
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
The Aquatopia deluxe safety bath thermometer alarm constantly and accurately measures the bath temperature every 2 seconds. The thermometer alerts you with an audible alarm if the water is too hot, over 100.4 degrees F, and another alarm if the water is too cold, below 89.6 degrees F.
This battery powered and water activated thermometer automatically activates when placed in water and de-activates when taken out. It is fully tested to meet all necessary safety standards and makes a great toy.
Sassy Temperature Sensing Froggie
The Temperature Sensing Froggie inspires baby’s imagination as it bobs in the water and frog rotates to float underwater. Froggie features a “Too Hot” indicator to assure that the bath water is a comfortable temperature. Froggies indicator changes color to warn you if bath water is too hot.
Spout Covers
I find using spout covers makes bath time much safer. Soft spout covers guard the entire faucet to protect children from accidental bumps and burns.
Munchkin Bubble Ducky Spout Guard
It’s America’s #1 selling spout guard. Soft cushiony material protects baby from bumps and burns. Pop the top to dispense bubble bath in the water for super sudsy fun. Easily fits standard bathtub faucets.
Safety 1st Soft Spout Cover
The Safety 1st Soft Spout Cover is inflatable and adjustable. It is removable and reusable and will accommodate the shower turn on valve. A safety feature for your toddler in the bathtub.
This soft, inflatable spout cover, with its friendly bath-pal theme, covers the entire tub faucet. Its mildew-resistant material wipes clean easily.
Kel-Gar Tubbly Bubbly
The soft, vinyl tubbly bubbly fits snugly onto any standard bathtub faucet, without shower diverter switch, to help protect baby from the faucets sharp edges which can also be hot to the touch. Spout can also be used as a bubble bath dispenser.
Skip Hop Moby Bath Spout Cover
Moby is a cute little whale that brightens up the bathtub while protecting your baby against bumps and bruises in the tub. Moby’s sleek design includes an adjustable fin strap that fits snugly on most tub spouts.
Sassy Froggie Soft Spout Guard
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Soft Spout Guard helps protect against accidental bumps and bruises in the tub and fits easily and securely over most bathtub faucets.
The friendly frog is a happy bathing companion for your child and helps make bath time safer.
Sesame Street Bath Tub Faucet Cover – Elmo
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Elmo Spout Guard Protect your children from bumps, bruises and burns in the bathtub with this adorable Elmo spout cover. Made of flexible durable vinyl, and featuring Elmo in a bubbly tub, this faucet guard will help make bath time safer and more fun! Helps protect little ones from bumps and bruises in the tub Elmo in the tub encourages your kids to bathe!
Transitional Bathtubs
When baby gets too big for his baby bathtub or kitchen sink it’s time to transition to an adult bathtub. Place a transitional bathtub inside an adult-sized bathtub, and baby will feel more comfortable and secure. Transitional bathtubs should only be used for babies that can sit up on their own unassisted. Transitional tubs make bath time easier whether you are at home or traveling.
Munchkin White Hot Safety Duck Tub
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
This inflatable, padded tub makes big bathtubs more comfortable for babies and toddlers. The safety disc in the tub turns white when the water is too hot, and the textured surface helps prevent slipping. Perfect for children 6 to 24 months that are able sit upright unassisted. Deflates and folds easily for travel.
Leachco Bath ‘N Bumper Cushioned Bathtub
The Bath ‘N Bumper makes bathing your child safe and easy. The soft bumper bath fits directly in a full-size tub, surrounding your child with comfy cushioned support. The padded slip-resistant bottom helps prevent slipping and sliding.
Kel-Gar Snug Tub
The inflatable Snug Tub is your child’s safe, fun comfortable and water-conserving bathtub for use within your preexisting adult tub. The inflatable sides and bottom provide something for your child to hold on to and are less slippery than adult tub surfaces. The padded headrest can be used to safely shampoo toddlers.
Safety 1st Kirby Inflatable Baby Bathtub
The Safety 1st Kirby inflatable tub is designed to provide a cozy environment for a self-sitting baby. It is made of soft vinyl which is easy on your baby’s skin. The recessed drain plug allows quick and easy draining.
Baby Bath Toys
Most babies love to take a bath. Playing in the water is one of their favorite things to do. And a bath is even more fun when there are toys to play with. Before you give your baby any bath toys, check them to make sure there are no loose pieces, small parts that your baby could put in his mouth, sharp edges that could cause scratches or cuts, holes that can catch little fingers, or pieces that can break away. Stay away from large inflatable toys that can trap a small child under water. And stay away from wooden toys; wood holds moisture that allows bacteria to grow.
Sassy Aquatic Bobbers
The Sassy Aquatic Bobbers float in the water and the fish and the frog bobble back and forth. Your baby will love the unsinkable bobbers and will have a constant companion for bath time fun. Simply immerse the bobbers in water for bubble sounds and a variety of water straining activities.
Sassy Counting Fish & Net
Scoop and strain water with each little fish while learning to count! Easy to grasp fish and fishing net are sized just right for little hands.
Each of the colored fish have a number and corresponding holes in the bottom to make scooping and straining water as easy as 1-2-3.
Infantino Chewy Ark
Available at Amazon.comYour baby will love playing with the four colorful, squeaky animals, a giraffe, elephant, monkey, lion and the ark. When bath time is over, all the animals fit together like a puzzle inside the ark.
Chewy Ark can be played with in the bath, a pool, a sandbox, a carpet or just about anywhere. Babies can play with, or teethe upon the animals, while toddlers can have fun assembling the puzzle pieces.
Fisher-Price Precious Planet Floating Activity Hippo
Available at Amazon.comThis cute little hippo has four fun activities for baby and the attached mesh net belly offers easy cleanup and storage for mom. Each of the hippo’s hands olds a different toy. There’s a flutter ball, a penguin with rattle beads, a turtle strainer and a whale squirter. When bath is done hippo can hang from the shower head or water spout to dry.
Munchkin Ten Squirting Sea Buddies
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
These colorful and creative sea buddies are sure to please your little bather. Each captivating creature squirts water for endless laughs and surprises. Get set to get wet.
Munchkin Baby Bath Turtles
Bring your baby out of his shell at bath time with 4 floating turtles that connect with magnets. Each colorful turtle is its own interactive toy – a mirror for sight, rattle for sound, and balls for rolling and spinning fun. The captivating colors and sounds keep your little one busy while you’re getting him nice and clean.
Sassy Double Duckies
You can’t have a bath without a rubber ducky and twin rubber duckys are double the fun.
Your little waterbug will love sharing the tub with these two yellow fellows. Twin Rubber Duckies make bathtime a time to look forward to every day. Bright yellow duckies float effortlessly and can squirt water too!
Amazing Animals Tubtime Friends Dolphin and Starfish
A dolphin, an inner tube and a squirty starfish are all ready to ride the waves, floating in baby’s bath!
Dolphins’ tail and flippers spin with a clicking noise.
Yookidoo Stack ‘N Steam Tub Fountain
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Water-jet powered fun in the tub! Base attaches to the bottom of the tub and draws water up through the center creating a magical fountain for bath time play. As boats and characters are stacked up on the base, the water flows through each one and out the top.
Change the figures on top for different effects. The red boat spins as it sprays, blue boat has a swiveling propeller, octopus spouts in all directions, and scuba pal sprouts hair as he squirts from his mouth. Figures are shaped for interchangeable stacking. Easy for kids to turn on and off by themselves. Just press the orange peek-a-boo button. Boats and characters can float around the tub, too. 3 AA batteries required.
Alex Toys Rub-A-Tub Squirters for the Tub – On the Go Transportation
Your little boy will love these bath toys. The set includes a fire truck, police car, airplane, boat, and car. Each squirter is perfectly sized for little hands to squeeze.
This toy is recommended for ages 6 months to 5 years.
Sassy Car Wash
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
The Sassy Car Wash won the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award and the National Parenting Publication Honors Award.
Floating Car Wash offers over eight imaginative play activities. An oval-shaped roadway features terry cloth sponges, bumps, squishy spinners, and a water squirting nozzle. Car wash includes a squirting car, a truck for scooping and pouring, a car for scooping and straining, and a floating car ferry. This toy is recommended for ages 9 months and up.
Sassy Bathtime Kitchen Sink
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Bathtime Kitchen Sink has won the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award, National Parenting Publication Award and the Iparenting Greatest Products of the Year award. Your little kitchen cleaner upper will have lots of fun in the bath with the Bathtime Kitchen Sink.
Kitchen set includes a terry cloth scrub brush, a bottle that squirts water, a cup for scooping and straining water, and a dish pan for scooping and pouring water. Water can strain from the faucet or squirt from the spray nozzle. This toy is recommended for ages 9 months and up.
Best Books for Toddlers
The world of toddlers is a busy one. Even though they are frequently on the move, toddlers need books as much as babies do. Now that your child is no longer a baby, but officially a toddler, he is developmentally ready to truly discover the pleasure of books. He now has the attention span of following a basic story line. He can distinguish one character from another and has a more sophisticated ear for language. He is now ready to learn more about the world he lives in.
Make reading time fun. Let you child choose the book he wants you to read, even if it’s the same one over and over again. Read with gusto. Give each character in the story a different voice and act out the parts they play. Stop occasionally and engage your child in the story by asking him some questions. You might ask, “Can you find the balloon the little boy wants to play with,” “Where is the doggie in this picture?” “What kinds of animals do you see at the zoo?” Be patient if your child stops you to ask questions or make comments. And, if he gets tired, even if it’s in the middle of the story, stop reading and finish the story another time.
Enjoy this special time. Sitting in a comfortable chair or on your child’s bed to read a story is one of the best things about being a parent. It’s a great time to cuddle and give your toddler undivided attention. Reading a book with mom or dad before nap time, bed time, or anytime of day, can serve as a great wind-down for active toddlers.
What to Look for When Choosing Books for Toddlers
For toddlers, picture books provide more elaborate plots and illustrations then board books do. Subjects range from ABCs to animals, feelings to favorite characters. Look for large, colorful pictures and simple story lines or rhymes that introduce basic themes and invite conversation.
Touch and feel books provide hands-on teaching activities for toddlers. Touch and feel books are designed to encourage toddlers to explore the world around them. Touch and feel books feature fun, tactile elements on each page which depict objects familiar to toddlers. Touch and feel books reinforce primary learning skills through sensory perception.
Here Are My Favorite Books for Toddler Girls or Boys
Are You My Mother? – by P.D. Eastman
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
I love this book. A mother bird leaves her egg in the nest to go look for some food. While she’s gone, the egg hatches, and the baby bird sets off to find his mother, but he doesn’t know what she looks like. His search leads him to ask a variety of animals and machines, “Are You My Mother?” Finally, a crane deposits him back in the nest, where his mother is waiting. Every time I read this book to my children I would get a warm, fuzzy feeling and even a little teary eyed.
Guess How Much I Love You – by Sam McBratney
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
I think this is so sweet about how much a father loves his son. During a bedtime game, every time Little Nutbrown Hare demonstrates how much he loves his father, Big Nutbrown Hare gently shows him that the love is returned even more.
The Very Hungry Caterpiller – by Eric Carle
One sunny day, a caterpillar pops out of an egg. He is very hungry and begins searching for food. He travels along and eats his way through the week, each day eating one more item than the day before. Eventually he becomes a fat caterpillar. The following Sunday he spins a cocoon and goes to sleep. He sleeps for two weeks. When he emerges he has turned into a beautiful butterfly. This book teaches your toddler the days of the week, how to count from one to five, names a number of familiar foods, and traces the life-cycle of a caterpillar.
Is Your Mama a Llama? – by Deborah Guarino
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Children have fun as they follow a llama on a search for his mama. A young llama asks all his friends if their mama is a llama and finds out, in rhyme, that their mothers are other types of animals. Amusing characters include a bat, a swan, a cow, seals, a kangaroo, baby and mother owls, seagulls, turtles, rabbits, koala bears, opossums, and of course, llamas. Colorful pictures and fun animals make this a must-have book.
Baby Baluga – by Raffi
Available at Amazon.com
The text in this book comes from the beloved children’s song “Baby Beluga” by Raffi. It tells the store of a baby beluga whale who lives in the water with his mother and his friends. The whale swims and plays, goes to bed, and then gets up to do it all over again. Children
will get a first, cheerful lesson about the natural world by becoming acquainted with enchanting Baby Beluga.
Harry the Dirty Dog – by Gene Zion
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Harry is a white dog with black spots who loves everything, except baths. So one day before bath time, Harry runs away. He plays outside all day long, digging, sliding in everything from garden soil to pavement tar. By the time he returns home, Harry is so dirty he looks like a black dog with white spots. He is completely unrecognizable to his family, even when he does all his clever flip-flopping tricks. In a stroke of doggy genius, he unearths the bath brush, begs for a bath, and is so happy when his family recognizes him again.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt – by Helen Oxenbury
A father and his four rambunctious children set out to locate one bear. With their boarder collie along they successfully cross the tall, wavy grass, ford the deep cold river, tromp through the mud, wander through the deep, dark forest, brave a whirling snow storm and finally enter the bear’s cave where they find the bear. The bear chases the brave troop back over every place they’ve been before, to the safety of their home. The bear then turns around and goes home.
Mr. Brown Can Moo Can You? – by Dr. Seuss
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
This board book is especially fun for the toddler who is just learning to recognize animal and other sounds. Mr. Brown is an expert at imitating all sorts of noises. Listen to the cow’s Moo, the frying eggs’ sizzle, the horse feet clopping, goldfish kissing and the thunders BOOM BOOM BOOM. As usual, the words and pictures of Dr. Suess make reading, and making all sorts of funny noises impossible to resist. In addition you just can’t go wrong with a book from Dr. Suess.
The Napping House – by Audrey Wood
It’s a rainy night and on a cozy bed lie a snoring granny, a dreaming child, a dozing dog, a snoozing cat, and a tiny slumbering mouse. But then an unexpected visitor arrives, a wakeful flea. When the little flea bites the mouse, it causes a chaotic chain reaction in the bed. Now no one is sleeping. The way the characters pop out of bed is truly entertaining and imaginable.
Counting Kisses – by Karen Katz
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
A tired little baby receives all kinds of kisses from Mommy, Daddy, and even Grandma. From “10 little kisses on teeny tiny toes” to one final kiss on the baby’s “sleepy, dreamy head,” parents can bond with their little one by giving the same kisses to their child as the baby in the book receives. This book is a great way to have fun with reading and to share affection with a special child in your life.
Baby Happy Baby Sad – by Leslie Patricelli
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
This book creatively helps toddlers understand this pair of emotions. A towering ice-cream cone makes Baby Happy. But when that delectable treat goes splat, it makes Baby Sad. And how quickly Happy turns to Sad when a favorite red balloon flies away! Even the littlest listeners will relate to this playful look at a pair of emotions that are part of every baby’s day.
Yummy Yucky – by Karen Katz
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Learning what is and isn’t ok to put in your mouth is an important part of growing up. Spaghetti is yummy, worms are yucky. Mommy’s cookies are yummy, but her coffee is yucky. Burgers, well those are yummy, but they should not be confused with boogers, which are yucky. The list of contrasts goes on throughout this book. Learning about opposites has never been more fun or funny than with this winning book.
Cookie Count – by Robert Sabuda
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Yum! This delicious counting book offers much more than the numbers one to ten. Each page is a feast of sweet, sugary treats, coconut kisses, peanut-butter cookies, Linzer hearts, and more are carefully concocted and counted by mouse chefs. The tempting desserts are made all the more delectable by brilliant pop-up constructions that leap from the pages, practically into your mouth. Cookie Count is a delicate book. Read it with your child and teach him to be gentle when turning the pages.
Green Eggs and Ham – by Dr. Suess
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Sam-I-Am won’t give up! He keeps trying to get the grumpy grown-up in the story to taste green eggs and ham. No matter how Sam-I-am presents the green eggs and ham, in a box, with a fox, in the rain, on a train, the grumpy grown-up refuses to try them. Finally, Sam-I am’s pesky persistence pays off as the old grouch takes a bite. The old sourpuss’s face lights up as he gratefully acknowledges, “I do like green eggs and ham. Thank you, thank you Sam-I-am!” Try as you might, you can’t resist Sam-I-Am and his Green Eggs and Ham.
The Run Away Bunny – by Margaret Wise Brown
The little bunny wonders what it would be like to strike out on his own. He dreams of becoming a fish, a bird and even a “crocus in a hidden garden”. With each incarnation he imagines, his mother promises to become a fisherman, a tree and a gardener so that she may still watch over, guide and protect her little bunny. Realizing that his mother’s love is unwavering, the little bunny decides he would be wise to stay home and just be himself.
Corduroy – by Don Freeman
For any kid who has dreamed of having an empty department store all to himself, Corduroy is a dream come true. This adorable bear has terrific adventures on his way to find his missing button. When all the shoppers have gone home for the night, Corduroy climbs down from the shelf to look for his missing button. He accidentally gets on an elevator that he thinks must be a mountain and sees the furniture section that he thinks must be a palace. He tries to pull a button off the mattress, but he ends up falling off the bed and knocking over a lamp. The night watchman hears the crash, finds Corduroy, and puts him back on the shelf downstairs. The next morning, he finds that it’s his lucky day! A little girl buys him with money she saved in her piggy bank and takes him home to her room. Corduroy decides that this must be home and that Lisa must be his friend.
Best Books for Newborns
Children are never too young for you to read to them. Even though a newborn baby won’t understand the words, just the sound of your voice alone is very soothing and reassuring. I know a father, a lawyer by profession, who spent an hour each night reading his briefs to his newborn baby. The act of reading to your baby is more important than the book you choose. A warm lap and the rhythmic sound of a familiar voice is what matters most to baby.
Reading to children is more than a great way to entertain them. Reading to your baby is a great way to boost development and early reading skills. Studies show that young children that are read to every day learn to read earlier and with greater ease. Books can become not only one of your baby’s favorite playthings but also a key to language development.
There is no better way for a parent, grandparent or babysitter to get a child settled into bed then to pull out a favorite picture book or story. Then instead of bedtime becoming something for children to dread and fight against, it becomes an enjoyable time when child and caregiver can unwind and be close to each other. Often a young child will drift off to sleep with happy characters and thoughts on their minds to dream about.
What to Look for When Choosing Books for Newborns
Certain visuals and text hold the attention of newborns. The eyesight of newborns is a work in progress. They see best from a distance of approximately one foot. When choosing books for your newborn or infant, select books with bold images. Look for patterns (stripes, polka dots, checkers) and black-and-white illustrations or photos, with few or even no words at all.
For infants, books are not merely for looking at. Babies tend to taste, toss and tear their books. Even sturdy cardboard books may not survive this search-and-destroy stage. Cloth and vinyl make good chewable books. Babies love to turn pages, point to pictures and even taste their books.
Here are my favorite children’s books that newborns respond to best.
White on Black – by Tana Hoban
The first colors your baby sees are black and white. This wordless book of white shapes on a black background is perfect for young babies, who love looking at bold, contrasting colors while their eyes are developing. Black illustrations on a white background provide high contrast for infant’s underdeveloped eyes. Soothingly familiar, silhouetted shapes, a leaf, a key ring, a bib, an elephant, will be recognized by the very young, and through simple pictures, aspiring readers will begin to identify the link between the objects they see and the words their caregivers say. Share the pictures of these familiar objects with your baby. It is never too early to look and talk together.
Look, Look! – by Peter Linenthal
I love this sturdy little board book, full of high-contrast black-and-white cut-paper art perfect for staring at, just the thing for the eyes of the youngest babies. A few words in curving red type on each spread describes the scenes. Baby will love looking at children playing, fish swimming, stars shining, a car racing, a cat scratching, flowers blooming. Look Look! is the ideal first board book for babies just beginning to look and learn. This is a great book to place in front of your baby at tummy time.
Let’s Play – by Leo Lionni
Here’s a perfect book for very young babies. This is such a fun book that encourages exploring the world and enjoying everything the day might have to offer. “What shall we do today?” two mice ask each other. “Read a book? Pick flowers? Go Swimming? Play ball? Climb a tree or gather leaves?” Award-winning graphic art is at its best in this very simple board book that can be shared with a baby or toddler.
Good Night Moon – by Margaret Wise Brown
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
There’s no denying that this bedtime classic deserves space on every child’s bookshelf. Goodnight Moon is the all-time best-selling board book. Generations of children have loved this book since it was first published in 1947. In lulling language, the author gives an account of a little bunny whose green bedroom grows increasingly darker as he goes through his nightly routine of saying good night to his room and all the familiar things visible in it. Looking for all the objects the bunny names is a fun way for children to interact with this book. At the end the little bunny succumbs to slumber, secure that all the things inside his room and visible through his window will still be there when he awakens. Your little one will also want to say good night to the special things in his room.
Pat the Bunny (Touch and Feel Book) – by Dorothy Kunhardt
The all-time best-selling interaction book is Pat the Bunny. Your baby can participate with Paul and Judy in seven activities. They can pat the bunny’s fake fur, lift a small cloth to play peek-a-boo, smell the scented flower illustration, see a reflection in the shiny film, feel the sand paper representing Daddy’s scratchy face, look at a tiny seven-page bunny book within this book and poke their finger in the hole that represents Mommy’s wedding ring. Simple line drawings and pastel colors make this an easy book for even infants to focus on. The double-folded cardboard pages, inside which the textured objects are attached, will withstand repeated use.
Dear Zoo – by Rod Campbell
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
An adorable storyline with pictures to match: A child writes to the zoo to request a pet, and a series of animals are delivered but rejected for one reason or another by the child. The elephant is too big, the lion is too fierce, the monkey is too naughty, and the frog is too jumpy. At the end of the book the child receives a small hamper with a note, “From all your friends at the zoo” containing the perfect pet, a puppy. With delight, the child accepts his perfect little pet.
Good Night, Gorilla – by Peggy Rathmann
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
With very few words, but the most expressive illustrations, this book tells the store of a mischievous gorilla who borrows the zoo keeper’s keys and as the zoo keeper is completing his rounds, the gorilla lets the animals out. The gorilla, with all the animals following him, ends up in the zoo keeper’s bedroom, and the little gorilla even snuggles next to the sleepy wife as she turns off the lights. When all of the creatures respond to the wife’s “Good night dear,” they are exposed.
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? – by Bill Martin Jr.
This is another classic children’s book. A big happy frog, a plump purple cat, a handsome blue horse, and a soft yellow duck all parade across the pages of this delightful book. The book features repetitive questions about animals and colors that your child will soon be able to answer before you even turn the page.
The Going to Bed Book – by Sandra Boynton
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
Sandra Boynton is one of my favorite children’s book authors. What better way to soothe your baby to sleep than with a book that makes going to bed fun. Her whimsical and hilarious style features zany animal characters, such as the elephant, moose, and pig getting ready for bed aboard a giant boat. Children will see their own bedtime routine as fun when they see the animals prepare for bed by taking a bath, finding their pajamas, brushing their teeth, and finally rocking to sleep in the ark. The simple rhymes, goofy animals, and sweet lyrics make for a memorable reading experience.
Where’s Spot – by Eric Hill
This book focuses on mama dog Sally’s search for her wayward pup Spot, who is late for supper. Is the precocious puppy hiding behind the door, under the bed, or in a cabinet? Each page finds Sally in a different part of the house, and contains a lift-up-flap that hides a different animal in each room. Your child will love lifting the flaps and saying “no” each time it isn’t Spot and then saying “yay!” when it is.
Where is Baby’s Belly Button – by Karen Katz
Available at Amazon.com
Available at Target.com
This is a wonderful first book to enjoy with your baby. Karen Katz’s adorable babies play peek-a-boo in this delightful interactive book. The sturdy format and large, easy-to-lift flaps are perfect for parents and baby to share. Karen’s playful text and vibrant, patterned illustrations keep babies mesmerized as they search for Baby’s hand, eyes, feet, and much more.
Daddy Kisses – by Anne Gutman
There are so many books for mommy and baby it’s nice to see a book especially for daddies and baby. What could be cuter than seeing adorable baby animals snuggling with their daddies. Daddy animals kiss their babies in different places. After displaying several different daddy animals kissing their babies, the book ends with a human daddy kissing his baby all over. This is a sweet book and a fun way to initiate playful affection between father and baby.
Best 2009 Gender-Neutral Holiday Gifts for Toddlers
If your toddler has opposite-sex siblings, it’s never too early to learn to share!
I’m a big believer in educational toys. There’s so many great ones to choose from today, there’s no reason to not pick a toy that will simultaneously develop your baby’s skills while having fun.
Below are my Baby Lists-approved picks for 2009’s best toys that are perfect for either boys or girls.
1. LeapFrog Fridge Farm Magnetic Animal Set
The LeapFrog Fridge Farm Magnetic Animal Set received the prestigious Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award in 2004.
The Magnetic Animal Set attaches to the refrigerator or can be played with on the floor. This is a great toy to have if you’re working in the kitchen and want to keep your toddler busy and in sight. This toy teaches your toddler all about animals, as it plays learning songs, fun facts, and sounds.
Toddlers can make up to 25 combinations with this magnetic puzzle. When two matching pieces are inserted into the farm, a cheerful electronic voice says the animal name. If the pieces mismatch, the toy creates a silly name for that animal. Matches are positively reinforced and the toy makes mismatches seem funny rather than wrong.
When set to music mode, Farmer Tad plays five banjo tunes for a real barnyard ho-down. All pieces store on the back of the barn and a carry handle allows easy transport from place to place. This toy is recommended for ages 1 to 3 years old.
2. Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Learning Letters Mail Box
Amazon.comThe Laugh & Learn Learning Letters Mail Box comes with three letters and a package for slotting and put-and-take play. When baby opens up the door he will hear the friendly mailbox character or play peek-a-boo by looking through the mailbox.
Slide the address roller to learn all about numbers and lift the mail flag to learn about opposites to learn about music and phrases. The mail box is surrounded by and activities including a jiggly bat-at bird who interacts with baby, and a silly slider snail and butterfly to develop baby’s motor skills. This toy is recommended for ages 6 months to 3 years.
3. Manhattan Toy Put and Peek Birdhouse
Your toddler will love playing with this little birdhouse which won the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award in 2005. Four colorful rattling birds all have different textures, and the easy-open roof and door are perfect for tiny hands.
Classic “fill-and-pour” play encourage development of motor skills and cause-effect understanding. This toy is recommended for ages 9 months and up.
4. Fisher Price Animalville Town Center Play Set
Amazon.comI love this toy because there are so many things for your toddler to do. Once your toddler visits the town center he will want to spend the day. He can visit the post office, the salon, the doctor’s office, or the restaurant.
Mechanical features include a drop-through mail delivery system, a rolling food preparation site, a clicking hairdressing chair and a slide out x-ray machine. Also includes a gas pump, a traffic light, an umbrella table and a mail delivery truck. This toy is recommended for ages 1 year and up.
5. Infantino Matching Colors & Textures Puzzles (ages 12 to 36 months)
Amazon.comThis is a great toy for parents and child to play with together. It develops sensory skills and hand-eye coordination. It helps young children learn first words, develop matching skills and early problem solving. The 20 two-piece puzzles are sturdy and fun for young children to hold and handle.
One piece of the puzzle has a picture and name of a color or texture, and the second piece has a picture and the name of a familiar object, such as an animal or food. Children look for the two puzzle pieces that fit together and words for clues as their skills increase. This toy is recommended for ages 1 to 3 years old.
6. iPlay Nest & Stack Buckets
Amazon.comI know toddlers love to stack things way up high and then knock them down. These brightly colored Nest and Stack Buckets is the perfect toy for doing just that.
A bright storage bucket with a handle includes ten stacking and nesting cups, plus four fun shapes for sorting. Stack them up to make a tower over 3 feet tall. This toy is recommended for ages 12 months to 4 years.
7. Lego Duplo 5380 Building Set
Amazon.comA toy collection is just not complete without Lego building blocks. This set won the 2008 Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Blue Chip Award.
Legos are ideal for construction play. Your toddler can dive into this tub of Lego bricks and use his imagination to build all kinds of things. This set comes with building plate, wagon base and figure to help inspire role-play fun. New container allows for easy clean-up and efficient storage. This toy is recommended for ages 18 months to 5 years.
8. LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table
Amazon.comThe LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table is not only a great source of entertainment but is also a learning resource for your toddler. There’s so much to do, this bilingual activity table will entertain your baby for hours. There are songs, melodies, twinkling lights, and real instrument sounds, plus lot of things to spin, roll, slide, open and close.
The table plays over 40 songs and melodies. When toddlers turn the center page, the activity table switches modes and transforms musical discoveries into learning activities where each instrument plays a learning song.
The Learning table sits flat on the floor for babies to play at while sitting. You can attach the tables legs to adjust it to accommodate toddlers play while standing. This little table requires 3 AA batteries, not included. This toy is recommended for ages 6 months to 3 years.
9. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Baby Grand Piano
Amazon.comThis 2008 Child Magazine Best Toy Award winner will encourage your child to develop a liking for music. Now your toddler can have his own Baby Grand Piano that teaches numbers and colors in addition to presenting musical concepts such as tempo, pitch and styles.
Choose from three modes: Learning, Musical Fun and the new Imagination mode where your toddler experiences full piano play. Your toddler is encouraged to play and learn with the 8 light-up keys and 4 activities with musical songs.
A friendly dancing character and his magic music book, come to life as your toddler plays, leading the singing in 4 songs. Baby Grand Piano requires 3 C batteries, not included. This toy is recommended for ages 9 months to 3 years.
10. Little People Animal Sounds Farm
Amazon.com
The Animal Sounds Farm teaches your toddler all about animals and the sounds they make. What fun discovering what a busy place a farm can be: “neigh” says the horse, “baaa says the sheep, “cluck” chirps the chicken, “moo” says the cow, “oink” squeals the pig. They’ll even discover what some of the animals feel like when they pet the “cottony” cow, “hairy” horse, “wooly” sheep, and the “squiggly” piggly tail.
The farm includes farmer Jed, cow, sheep, horse and pig. The chicken stays attached to the barn. All pieces store inside. Animal Sounds Farm requires 3 AA batteries.
This toy is recommended for ages 12 months to 4 years.