Confident Christmas Curation: For the Littlest Littles

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Prior to August of this year, my toy purchases were limited to little cousins and friend’s children. I never really knew what I was buying for smaller children and often resorted to gift cards, which I hate. I love taking the time to shop for a specific person and prefer a gift over cash or a gift card. Here are some of my ideas for the littlest littles on your Christmas list(s)!

 

Newborn – 3 Month

Automatic Rocker

My sister-in-law bought us this Ingenuity automatic rocker and it’s been an absolute lifesaver. My son loves it, and at times it’s easier to get him in and out of it rather than his swing.

 

WubbaNub

I bought some for coworkers last year and loved how cute they were! Since I found out I was pregnant around Christmas I was able to snag two Christmas ones for my son! Not only are they cute, but he is also practicing his fine motor skills when he tries to put it back in his mouth. (Plus, he is able to cuddle it!)

Here is a Reindeer that my son loves:

They also have several other animals, which is great to match nurseries or themes.

 

Whitenoise Machine: Baby Shusher

This was a desperate I-need-a-break-and-sleep-ASAP purchase and I LOVE IT! This was one of two small and portable white noise machines I was able to find when I 100% needed it and had to purchase in-store.

Essentially, this shushes nonstop so you don’t have to. There is a timer so it can turn off after 15 minutes or it can just stay on. The volume is also adjustable and is loud enough to calm in a car with music and road noise competing for the baby’s ears. At first, I thought it was dumb and questioned myself, but it’s been a life saver.

 

Swaddles

All. The. Swaddles. We have several of these and while they may not be as easy as a zipper option, I was able to keep his arms wrapped while changing diapers. I was also able to lower the velcro and have his tummy wrapped when he was gassy.

 

Bassinet

A little on the larger side and portable. My favorite! Being able to move the bassinet not only from room to room, but take with us when needed is wonderful. After having a C-section I was very cautious to avoid issues with my incision and being able to have baby close and not too high or low was a total game-changer

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3 – 6 Months

Rattle & Teather Gift Set

Having multiple toy options to rotate out helps avoid boredom for you and baby. Plus, having multiples help when it comes to cleaning. Also, you won’t have to worry about a specific toy becoming an absolute favorite and being out of luck when it is dirty. More options are always better!

 

Soft Books

While books are a favorite gift of mine in general, soft books help baby play and work on those fine motor skills. They can practice and mimic the movements they see you doing during storytime without worrying about them dropping a board book on themselves. (Or ruining with drool.)

 

Water Mat

Tummy time + Water time = All the Fun (without the mess) I think this helps lessen the hate of tummy time for those babies who just don’t have a good time with it. Plus you aren’t having to distract with a toy.

 

Floor Seat

A floor seat helps baby work on sitting up without having to rely on someone holding them up. Also helps them not rely on mom or dad holding them constantly. Also helps strengthen neck muscles.

 

6 – 9 Months

Mirror

Babies love looking at their reflection. This will distract as a mirror and as an interactive toy. Plus, it will be used past 9 months so it will definitely be loved on!

Superhero Outfits

Know of a super baby who needs to let the world know they are ready to help and protect? Outfit them with this pack of Marvel onsies! Great if you or baby’s parents love Marvel. Plus there are also matching bibs!

Musical Instruments

These may not be a favorite of baby’s parents, but they are a great developmental toy! Also, since it is a pack toy rotation will be easy to work out. Of course, you might want to check with parents (or ask yourself if they are for your little) if they are okay.

 

Crawl Along

Have or know of an aimless crawler who gets bored and gets into things? A crawl along toy may help distract and entertain baby to aid in distraction and harm reduction.

 

Pop-up Toy

A pop-up toy is not only easy to play with but will also help with motor skill development. Plus, it’s a classic.

 

9 – 12 months

Dragon Rocker

My son has a dinosaur version of this and I am so excited for him to learn how to ride it! I love that it is soft, sturdy, and did not require assembly.

 

VTech Learning Toys

VTech has become synonymous with learning while playing. This tea set will help develop imagination, creativity, and foster learning how to share.

Of course, if a tea set isn’t baby’s cup of tea (see what I did there?) VTech offers several other options. But, this is a great option for a first tea set!

Crawling and Walking Protection

Scraped knees and bumped toes will happen, but helping to reduce that is also great! If you have hard flooring, carpets, and a little crawler or walker these may be a great option. These help protect little legs and feet while baby is learning how to get around. (And help keep them and their sensitive skin safe.)

 

Balance Bike

Have or know of a little one who is getting ready to, or already is, walking? A balance bike will help to make sure that they learn how to get up and around in a safe way. Just like the crawling and walking protection a balance bike is just a temporary learning aid. It also helps strengthen little muscles while working to avoid accidents.

 

Bath Toy

This octobpus is not only a bath toy, but it also helps baby work on fine motor skills. Getting the rings on the octopus’ arms is learning disguised as fun!

 

Of course, these are all wonderful suggestions and several of these can be used for years to come. Every baby and child is different so one may love something on this list while another hates it. Give them a try and happy shopping!

For more ideas check out our other gift guides