Practical Gifts For Toddlers

Sep 12, 2024

3 min read

During the short-lived stage of toddlerhood, I don't like purchasing toys and other items that I know will be forgotten after a few weeks. I wanted to come up with gift suggestions that are not only valued but also put to good use! As my children have moved swiftly from one stage to the next, here is a compilation of practical items that would serve as ideal gifts!

Help Baby Proof! Door handles, cabinet magnets (& extra magnets!), toilet locks, patio door latch, outlet covers, baby gates...all are super helpful! Obviously some of these items you may need to talk with the parents to make sure you are getting the right products. But losing the element of surprise is worth it!
"Level Up" Feeding Supplies! It is likely they have been using what they purchased on their registry. It is now time for a toddler booster seat, bigger spoons and forks, open cups, metal water bottles, snack containers, silicone placemats, and more.
Toddler Bed Kit! When parents are ready to transition out of a crib, there is a lot you have to buy. Help out by purchasing pillows, waterproof mattress protectors, organic cotton sheets, duvet, and duvet cover. Our in-laws surprised us with this set for our son's first birthday. Knowing his room was cowboy-themed they also matched the sheets to the theme. It was my favorite gift!
Hair Care & Accessories! Now that their hair is growing in a little thicker you can really start styling it. Add a water spray bottle, hair brush, leave-in conditioner, hair ties (we love this set!), headbands, snap clips, claw clips, bows, and more to a basket! The options are endless here.
"Level Up" Bath Time! Add some colored bath fizzies, bath crayons, splash guard shelf, basketball hoop, suction toys, and more!
Bath Towel Set! Speaking of bath time...those cute little washcloths and hooded towels from the registry may be beginning to shrink. It is bittersweet transitioning to regular bath towels but necessary nonetheless!
Snack Pack! Grab a snack pouch like THIS and fill it up! You can also include a pack of metal water bottles or bento boxes if you are looking to meet a price point.
Pool Toys! As my kids get older they love to play with pool rings & diving toys, pool floats, and water guns. As a first time parent it is very highly likely you don't have these items laying around until you need them. Bonus add a swimsuit and/or Turkish towels too!
Bike Safety Gear! It is likely they are going to get a bike and/or scooter soon, but has anyone thought about getting a helmet, knee & elbow pads, and bike lights?
Potty Training Kit! This is eventually be a separate post, but purchasing these items as a gift would be super helpful. The seat for home, the seat for travel, the seat for the car, and some potty training books like this and this.
Highlights Magazine Subscription! We love the Hello magazines. They are durable, easy to travel with, and really have some great material for toddlers.
School Photo Prop! I bought this one on Etsy and it is so cute for school pictures. The board is velcro so I can use it for both kids.