I’ve compiled this preliminary list of resources for anyone navigating parenthood. It includes daily life essentials, screen-free travel hacks, books, and more!
Daily Life Essentials
- SkipHop – My daughter has been using the SkipHop in some form since she was 6 months old. We LOVE it. When she turned 1.5, we transitioned it into table mode. It’s where she has art time and eats most of her meals.
- Learning Tower – A learning tower is essential for toddler safety in the kitchen. The one I’ve linked is the one closest to the wooden one that I have. Other kitchen tools we love are included in this blog post.
- Play Mat – The play mat in our home is probably the most-used item we own since having a kid; This non-toxic, hypoallergenic mat from Berry Lane is large enough to grow with your little one for years. We used it for tummy time and now our little uses it for yoga, dancing, and general toddler mischief. 😆
- Bathmat – Hevea’s rubber mat is the way to go for your child’s bathtub. I did a lot of research here and have been very particular about what I add to our bath time routine. Many toddler bath time items have a lot of PFAS. I was thrilled when I came across Hevea’s 100% natural rubber products.
Kids’ Reading Corner
- Bookshelf – This wooden bookshelf by Fable Twig is adorable and great for fostering your child’s independence and love for reading.
- Reading Rug – This is the perfect reading rug for your little’s bedroom. I searched high and low for a non-toxic rug brand and came across this Lorena Canals favorite in my research.
- Basket – We use this Lorena Canals’ brand basket for storing some books by my toddler’s rocker and love it.
Enjoying the Outdoors
- Scooter – The Micro scooter brand is THE way to go. Their scooters are ideal for families with sustainability top of mind as they grow with your little for years. My toddler has the Mini which covers ages 2 to 5 years.
- Helmet – Getting your child’s first helmet can be daunting. Safety is the primary concern but you also want to prioritize comfort. The MIPS technology in the Giro brand helmet I’ve linked was a clear winner in my research.
Best Toys for Travel with Toddlers
- Touch and Feel Flashcards – These interactive flashcards are more than just images matched to words – they include questions to engage your little one in conversation and words in multiple languages.
- Skillmatics Flashcards – These flashcards grow with your child. Depending on their age and interest, they can be used to learn colors, words, or counting.
- Water Reveal Activity Pad – This no mess coloring book by Melissa & Doug is perfect for contained travel entertainment!
Parenting Books
This list is for the best of the best…which is why there’s only a handful on my list of recommendations so far.
- The Whole-Brain Child – If you want a book that teaches you how to learn about your child and how to get on their level. This. Is. It. 10/10.
- Hold on to Your Kids – I’m never one to resist a book by Gabor Mate and appreciated the concepts Mate and Neufeld introduce in this book – primarily ‘peer orientation’ and why we need less of it – if any.
- Bringing Up Bebe – I really enjoyed this POV from an American mom raising her kids in France. It helped me to frame up what is worth worrying about early on in my motherhood journey.
- Expecting Better – This one is actually for the pregnancy stage. Though I have mixed feelings on some aspects, I love data-focused information so this was a must read!