Baby toy subscription boxes take the guesswork out of toy shopping
Looking for activities your littles will love delivered right to your home? Of course you are. Even if you didn’t know it, we’re betting there’s a good chance the idea sounds awfully appealing. There’s no shortage of baby and toddler toys out there, but finding ones that are curated and expert-approved? That can be tricky. Nurture your child’s brain development with a baby toy subscription box of educational (and fun!) toys that build physical, social, and cognitive skills. Here are five toy subscription boxes that make it easy for you by delivering age-appropriate developmental gear straight to your door.
KiwiCo Panda Crate
KiwiCo
Age group: Birth to 24 months
What you get: Each shipment includes brain-building toys and activities as well as a guide for parents that explains what skills your child is developing at their age and how you can best support them. You’ll also receive activity cards that explain ways to use the items in your crate as well as cards that give you simple, new ways to play and bond with your little one.
What we love: The crates' contents are tailored to kids' ages and stages, with developmentally appropriate activities you'll enjoy doing together. It's all backed by in-house experts and partners who specialize in child health behavior and development.
What you get: With this Montessori-inspired subscription box, you receive a box every 2-3 months (depending on your little one's age). Designed by child development experts, the goodies inside are created to build brain development and nurture and encourage your child at every age and stage. Toys include books, card sets, first puzzles, bath-friendly playthings and, much more. Useful products like a drinking cup also arrive right when your kiddo is ready to try them.
What we love: Lovevery takes a science-based approach to choosing the right items to spark neural pathways, hone motor skills, and encourage interaction. The baby-safe toys and materials are made with sustainably sourced wood and 100% organic cotton, and the shipping is carbon neutral. If your child has special needs, contact Lovevery for recommendations on which kits would work best.
What you get: Each playkit is packed with Montessori toys that are age-based and specifically created to stimulate learning (on top of having fun, of course).
What we love: Every toy in the Babysteps Playkits are pediatrician-approved, so you know the research has been done for you. Plus, each toy is designed to last, so hang onto them for your next kiddo.
Make sure to capture all those playful moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Whether you’re looking for a good book, a fantastic workout, or a way to reduce waste, make an impact when you shop at one of our favorite local spots
When it comes to innovative ideas, practical products and community-minded missions, you can count on these Seattle-area, women-owned businesses to get the job done. And as far as we’re concerned, there’s no better time to support these enterprising local go-getters than during Women’s History Month. Whether you’re looking for a good book, a fantastic workout or a way to reduce waste, you can make an impact when you shop at one of our favorite spots.
Belltown is where you'll find this hot new shop that opened in mid-February. Owner and mom to two kiddos, Colina Bruce started making candles as gifts and party favors for friends. In a short time, she turned her kitchen side hustle into a successful online business, and is excited to bring her soy-based, wood wick candles to her new candle bar. Bruce's candle scents are rooted in nostalgia, self care and good vibes, carefully blended in small batches.
While the new candle bar is a great spot for gal pal get togethers, it's also a new take on a family activity. Pouring sessions are held three to five times daily during business hours, and you're welcome to try you luck as a walk-in or make a reservation online to guarantee your spot. After you arrive, it's time to pick your vessel and your fragrances. There are over 50 scents to choose from. Bruce recommends blending up to three in a single candle. The whole process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. If you've got an event coming up in the future (think: birthday bash or baby shower), the space is available to rent, with or without a pouring session.
Insider tip: Future store pop-ups featuring local BIPOC-owned small businesses are on the horizon.
Saving the planet just got a little easier, thanks to Mimi's Zero Waste Market, Seattle's newest bulk and plastic-free shopping experience. The store opened in October 2021 by Seattle mom Heather and her daughter Berenice, and it's made its mark in just five short months. Heather estimates they've saved 740 potential single use containers from going into the waterways and trash. Not bad for a shop that started as a hobby during the pandemic. The store is stocked with sustainable household products and all kinds of organic bulk pantry staples you need to cook, bake and create in the kitchen. To shop here, all you need to bring are clean containers (think: mason jars, steel canisters, even reusable takeout containers) and your shopping list. Don't have any? Not to worry, you can purchase what you need at the store.
Pro tip: If you're not sure where to start, but you know you're ready to dive in to the zero waste waters, Heather suggests starting simple and small. For example, eliminating plastic containers full of products that are mostly water (like liquid laundry detergent) is a good place to start. Consider replacing your usual with a powder or concentrated form instead.
If a new book is what you need, head to this woman-owned Burien bookstore that just celebrated its third year in business. It's an old-school book shop that's all about community, from the free lending library you'll find on-site to the secret books they hide in Free Little Libraries around the city (psst..they're usually wrapped in brown paper packaging with colorful bakers twine). You'll find a diverse selection of kid's books here alongside playful gifts. And the staff is always ready to help with suggestions when you need them.
Marination Ma Kai has long been one of our favorite spots to dine outdoors in Seattle. What started as a food truck has grown into a brick and mortar with three Seattle locations. If you haven't been, it's time to check out this woman-owned, laidback restaurant perched on West Seattle’s shore that boasts unparalleled views of the city skyline. The menu plays with Korean Hawaiian Asian fusion food. Tacos are a popular choice, though the fish and chips (only available at this location) are another reliable favorite. Kids may enjoy the salty Spam musubi, the perfect precursor to the syrupy Hawaiian shave ice for dessert (psst..they make it boozy too). Board the water taxi from downtown for a door-to-door adventure.
Insider tip: Count on the line being out the door on summer weekends. Visit mid-week or when the weather isn't so inviting for faster service with the same amazing views.
Macadons owner Donna Chen spent a year perfecting her macarons, but it wasn't until she leaned in and embraced her heritage that she was able to break through. She found that by adding unique, Asian-inspired flavors like taro, durian, lychee and green tea to her delicate macarons, she created something different. Now you'll find all kinds of inventive flavors. many with intriguing printed pictures on them, at the flagship store in White Center. They come in all shapes and sizes; some are even filled with ice cream. Speaking of ice cream, Macadon's is hard to beat. It makes a great base for dunking delicate cookies, or so we're told.
Belly up to the barre for fitness, friendship and fun. The Barre, a Mill Creek-based fitness studio and lounge, promotes overall wellbeing by encouraging community and emphasizing physical and mental health. This boutique studio specializes in barre and cycle classes, but also offers yoga and TRX taught by instructors with extensive experience. Each instructor puts their own spin on the class, so you’re guaranteed a great workout every time. What sets The Barre apart from other fitness facilities? Its lounge. The Barre hosts happy hours, coffee dates, small business shopping events and more. Their lounge and peaceful outdoor patio space are also available to rent for your next event.
Spruce Apothecary is a skincare studio that focuses on clean and effective beauty products, holistic wellness and sustainable lifestyle goods. Book a service including facials, waxing, sugaring and more or check out their many product lines. Located in West Seattle, this studio supports small businesses who prioritize protecting the environment and creating sustainable goods. Spruce Apothecary sources non-toxic products created from ingredients that are healthy for our bodies and our planet. Spruce Apothecary prioritizes women-owned, BIPOC-owned and queer-owned product lines.
From a blog to a nationally recognized brand, Jenny Cookies has grown from a small operation to serving up deliciousness at two brick-and-mortar locations in Lake Stevens and Alderwood Mall. Jenny Cookies specializes in creative and delicious desserts for any occasion. From crispy cubes to classic cookies, cupcakes to frosted sugar cookies, Jenny Cookies has something for every sweet too. Themes and flavors change periodically, so visit often. Don’t forget to pick up some of their must-have merch. As far as we're concerned, everyone needs to sport an “Eat Cookies, Be Happy” sweatshirt. Jenny Cookies also offers pre-orders for pick up and ships some products across the country.
Former track and field athlete and American Ninja Warrior contestant, LaTaunya Witherspoon, opened SpoonFed Training to provide a friendly, non-intimidating environment for health seekers to achieve their goals. Trainers at this Renton-based gym work with people to help them reach their goals, providing support and accountability along the way. SpoonFed Training offers a variety of class formats, including cardio boxing, speed and agility training and live virtual classes. With over 14 years of experience in fitness and sports, Witherspoon has a natural passion for supporting and encouraging others on their health and wellness journey.
For parents with Littles, Sproutable has long been a reliable resource that's helped get them through the most challenging stages (we're looking at you, threenagers) with a level head and practical skills. And as of last month, they're offering the same positive parenting approach to parents with middle and high school aged kids. In February, Sproutable merged with the adolescent parenting company, Joyful Courage. Now these three founding women are bringing their expertise and tips to Seattle parents through online courses, videos, podcasts and more so you can be the best parent for your kiddo, no matter what their age or stage.
If you're looking to game on with your kids, there's no better spot to find a fresh, new game than Bellevue-based SimplyFun. Guided by President and CEO, Patty Pearcy, the company publishes award-winning educational games for kids ages 3 and up. To find a just-right game for your kiddos, start with one of the four learning categories: Life and Thinking Skills, Reading and Language Arts, Social Sciences and Studies or Math and STEM. Then it's as easy as finding a game that piques your interest. The company's latest game, SavannaScapes explores the biodiversity of the Serengeti-Mara in a wildly entertaining way.
Born in 2020 in the middle of the COVID pandemic, Ember Community Kits' goal is to build strong communities. These kits are on a two-fold mission: to support local businesses and makers and to spread joy and cheer throughout Seattle when people receive their kit. Choose from a variety of kits including housewarming essentials, pantry staples, ultimate ice cream sundae toppings and self-care. Send to a friend’s front door (Seattle deliveries are free, but they also ship anywhere in the United States) or treat yourself. Most products are hyper-local to Seattle, and the handmade kits include a write-up of products and a little introduction to the business. Ember Community Kits are a fantastic way to get to know Seattle-area makers, while receiving high-quality products and gifts. Bonus: partial proceeds from each kit sold are donated to a local organization in need.
Through birthday parties and at-home makerspace kits, Elementary Innovators encourages exploring, learning and sharing through hands-on projects. As a former teacher, owner Angie O’Malley is passionate about teaching kids to be creative and fearless when learning something new. Creating a collaborative environment for kids to play, discover, and of course have fun, is the primary goal of each event (whether it’s in-person or virtual). Elementary Innovators presents Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) principles in an engaging platform that fosters confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
Inspired by her grandmother and her kids' obsessions with LEGOs, Seattle mom Sarah Kirk released the Swoop Bag over ten years ago, and it's been a parent favorite ever since. This LEGO storage bag's brilliance is in its simplicity. Kids can easily clean up what feels like an entire swimming pool's worth of LEGOs by gathering them onto the bag and then "swooping" them up. We're pretty sure even toddlers can handle this one. All of the bags are made right here in Seattle and can help kids (and parents!) store all kinds of odds and ends using these colorful, durable pouches.
If you have little ones around, there is one thing you are guaranteed to be doing often: cleaning up after them! L’Avant Collective, founded by two local moms, realized the struggle is real and a solution was born. L’Avant Collection cleaning products are non-toxic, plant-based and highly effective. The products are sustainably-sourced and packaged in subtle, stylish, refillable bottles. Products are sold individually or bundled together. Order the Discovery Bundle to get a taste of everything. L’Avant Collective also offers a CLEAN subscription program. Your favorite products, like dish soap and multipurpose cleaner will be delivered to your door at the frequency you need. Bonus: subscription members receive a 15 percent discount.
What's the one parent product you can't live without? If your diaper bag is the first thing that popped into your mind, we're right there with you. We're crushing on the functional, hands-free Elkin diaper bag from Product of the North. The bags are made with sustainability in mind from recycled water bottles, and their gender-neutral colors go with whatever spit-up stained top you (or your better half) happen to be wearing. Plus, the easily-cleaned lining means you don't have to worry about spills when they happen. Our favorite part? That the bag's neutral design allows it to be used as an everyday backpack once you're past those basic baby stages.
Years of experience as a pediatrician led Alison Scott to launch babydocbox in 2020. It’s a thoughtfully curated subscription box that puts a pediatrician’s expertise at parents’ fingertips. Each themed box focuses on a different first-year developmental milestone, like sleep, feeding or illness. The boxes are filled with high-quality, safe, practical and fun products from local small businesses (and a few big ones too), alongside practical tips and advice straight from the pediatrician’s mouth. There’s a little something for moms in there too. (As a doctor, Scott realizes the seriousness of postpartum depression and includes postpartum resources and information in each box.) A year’s subscription includes six boxes, but parents can jump in any time during those first twelve months to get in on the action.
Every mom needs a “sweet” break from the chaos of motherhood. Mother Snacker is a dessert gift and subscription box made exclusively for moms by Bothell mom, Leah Brushett. Each box is filled with decadent sweets, self-care products and more, sourced from female-founded companies and socially-responsible brands. Choose from a one-time gift or start a subscription for a well-loved mom in your life. Mother Snacker can accommodate allergies and dietary needs. Moms have one of the toughest jobs on the planet and they all deserve some pampering!
Share the love of art with a child in your life. Outside the Box Creation provides kid art subscription boxes. No prior art experience or talent needed–just a love of creating and a great imagination. Purchase a month-to-month subscription or a one-time box. All you need is scissors and a pencil and your box will come with everything else you need. This Langley-based company values creativity through art expression and memory-making experiences. Outside the Box Creation actively gives back to the community by donating boxes and art supplies to local non-profit organizations. Boxes are filled with quality, non-toxic products that are sustainably-sourced and eco-friendly. Create a masterpiece and some memories with a kid art box.
We need to talk. I know you’re going through some very important developmental milestones, but I have some concerns about your behavior that I feel we should address.
Last night, you whipped your diaper off with such force that a nugget of poo flew across the room and struck me in the chest. I’m not going to lie, that was upsetting, and I’m still not exactly sure how it even happened. I understand you want to do things “by yourself,“ but I have never flung my poo at you, so I think it’s fair to ask that that never happen again.
While we are on the topic of nonsense, what is with your insane tantrums? That can’t be normal. I think you may be suffering from PMS (Preschool Meltdown Syndrome). I’ve heard it’s a thing—I didn’t just make that up.
I know toddler life is full of disappointments and upsets, but you should know that it is completely unnecessary to fall to the ground—as though you’re composed entirely of jello—every time something doesn’t go your way.
I’m sorry I wouldn’t let you play in the oven. I know, I suck. Maybe when you’re older.
And, as much as I would enjoy the sabbatical from cooking, I can’t let you live off fruit snacks and giant hunks of cheese. If you did, you would never poop again, and then what would you throw at me? Think about that.
We also need to talk about your sleep. There is no need to switch out stuffed animals at 3 a.m. They don’t care who you’re sleeping with. They are stuffed and have no real feelings. I, on the other hand, do, and when you wake up and refuse to get back in bed at 3 a.m., what I feel most is anger.
Then there’s your pants—or lack thereof. Listen, I don’t like pants either, but unfortunately, they are required when we are in public. Going forward, I would like to cease all arguments about pants—it’s a non-negotiable topic. If we’re staying home, then, by all means, roam free, my little gazelle. I will be the first one in attendance at your no-pants-party.
Lastly, you know I’m not a stickler when it comes to screen time, but you are really pushing the limits of my sanity with your viewing preferences. Seventeen consecutive episodes of Paw Patrol is the definition of excessive. There isn’t anyone or anything left to save in Adventure Bay—those pups are just showboating at this point.
So, kid, we’ve got to make some changes. Maybe we can settle this over a game of Hungry, Hungry Hippos? I’ll let you be the blue one, then you can change your mind and demand the yellow one, only to ultimately play with the orange one.
Whatever we do, we need to do something. I love you, but I can’t peel you off one more floor or haul you out of another restaurant screaming and crying because your juice was too juicy.
Jorrie is a mother of two, who writes about the reality and insanity of parenting on her blog Close to Classy. She aspires to own furniture without stains and enjoy a shower without an audience. You can follow her antics on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Being a parent can be tough! That’s why we appreciate any company that creates a shortcut or finds a way to ease the daily grind of parenthood. Startup companies are everywhere, and not surprisingly, many of them are founded by parents in business who had a genius idea and ran with it. After all, who better to solve parenting problems than parents themselves? From kid’s meal delivery services to cribs that rock babies to sleep, we’ve rounded up 15 startups designed to make parenting life easier. Scroll down to learn more.
All parents, at some point, have wished that they could be in more places at once. But, unless you’ve cloned yourself, the reality is that the only way to get it all done is to ask for help. And one place to start is finding transportation for your kids that will help them maintain their educational pursuits without the added stress of playing chauffeur. Sure, parents could use one of the many ride platforms, but precious cargo like kids requires a better solution.
Zūm, a transportation service for kids, offers optimized transportation solutions and fulfills daily transportation needs, “Whether it’s home-to-school transportation, off-campus events, or delivery of meals and educational materials.”
Wonderschool
istock
Wonderschool is often described as an Airbnb for daycare services, and it also helps launch in-home preschools and daycares. The idea for the startup came from co-founders Chris Bennett and Arrel Gray who saw too many parents worried about finding child care. So they designed a company to increase access to high-quality early childhood care for families.
Wonderschool empowers experienced educators and childcare providers to run their own in-home businesses while providing service to other families in their communities. The programs are diverse and designed to educate in the warmth of an in-home child care program.
Otter
iStock
It’s not uncommon for stay-at-home parents in communities to babysit each other’s children on occasion. But sometimes making the connection between parents looking for care and parents looking to provide that service isn’t easy. If you’re new to your neighborhood or just don’t know where to look, this next startup is for you!
Helen Mayer, the founder of Otter, was in this same boat in 2020, turning down a dream job because she couldn’t find safe, reliable, and affordable care for her twins. Wondering if she was alone in this, she went to her community for feedback and received overwhelming feedback that cemented her desire to help parents in situations like hers. Shortly after, Otter was born, offering parents a tool that “matches parents who need childcare with stay-at-home parents who can care for their kids.”
Have you heard of the “fourth trimester?” If you haven’t, we're talking about the first three months after giving birth. It’s a time of adjustment for your baby and you that requires a lot of support! Enter the My Fourth app!
Major Care Doulas founder, Mandy Major, created the My Fourth app to help extend the care delivered to her clients into the fourth trimester, saying that their tagline is “put a doula in your pocket,” and adding that “[our mission is] to mainstream postpartum doula care and use digital tools to make it as affordable and accessible as possible. We track pregnancy so diligently in this country but totally fail families in the fourth trimester. We're left to figure it all out on our own. Parents need education, connection, support, and personalized advice! That's why we blend bite-sized content with regular text check-ins from our doulas. Continuous care is what it's all about!”
It’s officially the future, and although many advances in technology have made parenting easier, there are some that have created challenges that parents might not be ready for. Like when your 10-year-old asks for their first cell phone. Gulp. Parents who feel completely unprepared for this big step are not alone. In fact, Pinwheel, “smartphones that enable responsible and healthy usage with modes managed by parents for everyday kids' life,” was founded on that very feeling.
Dane Witbeck founded Pinwheel when his eight-year-old son announced that his friend got an iPhone back in 2019. A user himself, he says “Pinwheel lets [me] see his grades in real-time and helps him focus on what matters most by excluding web browsers, app stores and social media. And of course, it supports all of the basic functions like calls, text, and GPS locations, so I can keep an eye on him if he forgets to tell me that he's going to a friend's house after school!”
Got a kid that’s ready for their very own cell phone? Try Pinwheel and use our exclusive promo code TINYBEANS for 10% off.
Having a new baby is a beautiful experience that brings parents memories to cherish for a lifetime. But it’s also a time of complete exhaustion from all those sleepless nights soothing baby back to sleep every hour. If only there was a crib that would rock your baby back to sleep for you. Oh, wait, there is!
According to Cradlewise Co-founder and CEO, Radhika Patil, “Modern-day baby monitors notify you once the baby wakes up crying and that’s too late already. Cradlewise is the world’s first crib that senses the first signs of stirring and automatically rocks the baby to sleep. This proactive soothing helps safeguard sleep for babies.” The genius crib, made with natural materials, was designed to grow with your baby—adjusting from bassinet to crib—and has a built-in smart baby monitor and sound system for playing white noise and other curated playlists that can be connected to their corresponding app, allowing you to track your babies’ sleep journey, and get some shut-eye of your own.
Vivvi
iStock
Sometimes one of the toughest parts about being a working parent is finding childcare for the kiddos. That’s where Vivvi comes in to make life easier. Think of Vivvi as the Four Seasons of Childcare, but for medium-sized employers. This startup provides employer-sponsored childcare for companies of all sizes. The care is provided either on-site or near the company and is geared toward kids ages newborn to five years old.
Vivvi’s co-founders Ben Newton and Charles Bonello designed Vivvi to make it possible for companies of all sizes to implement a childcare program and change their employees' lives.
Little Spoon
Littlespoon.com
Spending hours grocery shopping, prepping and serving meals, and cleaning up, only to have your child pick at their plate? Yup, it's exhausting. The founders of Little Spoon felt the same way! That’s why they started a meal delivery service for babies to big kids to bring clean, non-GMO meals and snacks right to your door. Its mission is to make parents' lives easier while offering the healthiest, tastiest food options for children. From chicken potstickers to turkey meatballs and even fresh smoothies and vitamins, your time, and your child’s nutrition and tastebuds are covered.
What parent hasn’t scrambled to find a last-minute photographer for birthday parties, holidays and family photo sessions? Shoott.com makes that problem obsolete. This startup provides on-demand professional photography at affordable rates. Shoott.com offers 30-minute photo sessions with an elite-level photographer at select iconic outdoor locations. Sessions are complementary to book, and you only pay for the photos you love at $30 or less. The company started in New York City and now offers services in 35 states.
“Our website makes it easy for anyone to book a professional photographer on demand for all of life's occasions, big or small—including holiday, engagement and family portraits as well as headshots or content for social media,” said Jennifer Tsay, CEO and co-founder of Shoott.com.
Lovevery
Lovevery
Play Kits by Lovevery are a subscription box service that delivers the right science-backed, non-toxic toys babies both want and need, at exactly the right stage of development, so that parents can rest assured they're giving their little ones the best possible start in life. Kits are delivered every other month and start at $36 per month. Lovevery was created to help parents give their little ones aneasy alternative to screen time, as well as the ability to maintain a minimalist lifestyle, by cutting out the unnecessary excess and delivering all that baby needs for playtime.
"At Lovevery, we make the science of early childhood more approachable and help parents feel confident they're giving their children the best start,” said Jessica Rolph, Lovevery co-founder and CEO. “We work with child development experts to distill all the research into a system of essential products that are stage-based and crafted with care. You can see that care in our Play Kits and our Play Gym, and it's why parents love what we do."
Huckleberry
iStock
If you’re a parent, sleep struggles have likely been a reality with your little ones at one point or another. That’s why Huckleberry was founded, as a new way to improve the way kids sleep. This app uses artificial intelligence and pediatric sleep experts to create individualized sleep plans for every family. Through Huckleberry, parents take a diagnostic quiz, track sleeping hours, naps and bedtimes, and the app predicts when your kiddo will be sleeping next. The program has several other features that can be purchased beyond the free app as well.
Huckleberry was co-founded by Jessica Toh who states that as a new parent, she never expected her baby would wake up every few hours for nearly two years, in spite of all the books and methods she tried. “It turned out there were many others in the same position,” said Toh. “I felt in this day and age there must be a way to solve this for all the sleep-deprived people out there who just want the best for their children.”
Aiko and Egor Animation 4 Autism
See Beneath
Aiko and Egor Animation 4 Autism is an animated video series and interactive app designed to help kids with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The activities use evidence-based principles to create activities that focus on simple animation and language for kids with ASD. The app is produced by See Beneath, whose founders are Gerin Gaskin, Casey Hoffman and Jim Turner, all of whom have a background in autism intervention and research from the University of California San Diego. These individuals spent more than 7,500 hours sitting on the floor with kids under the age of three diagnosed with ASD to develop the app.
“Our visionis a world where all children with autism will develop to their full potential,” according to the See Beneath website. “Our missionis to engage and educate children with autism (ASD) by creating and providing innovative tools that foster positive change and help children reach developmental milestones.”
Peanut
Peanut
Get ready to swipe right on the latest app to help moms make friends. Peanut is a Tinder-type app that matches moms so they can meet other like-minded moms. Once you create an account, Peanut shows you women in your neighborhood with similar-aged kids and creates matches based on shared interests. Then it’s up to you to create playdates and start conversations.
Michelle Kennedy came up with the idea for Peanut after having her first baby, Finlay, and was struggling to meet other moms. She decided to create a product that would make life as a new mom a little easier. “Peanut is more than an app to connect mothers,” according to Kennedy via Peanut’s website. “It’s about recognizing a pain point that millions of women encounter and finding a solution.”
Cognitive ToyBox
iStock
Cognitive ToyBox allows teachers to do what they do best: teach. This gamified early childhood assessment allows teachers to test a student’s learning and social-emotional readiness without spending countless hours administering tests. Here’s how it works: kids play five-minute assessment games and the results are then sent to the teacher automatically. The tool saves the teacher hours of work and provides objective data for teachers and parents.
Co-founders Tammy Kwan and Dr. Brenden Lake created Cognitive ToyBox because they wanted to develop an evidence-based technology solution to support early childhood educators, parents and children. The company currently provides preschool and kindergarten learning assessments.
Every parent has been through it. You confirm plans and then you can’t find a babysitter. That’s where Nanno comes in. This app allows parents to secure a sitter within minutes. There is no minimum hour requirement and you can book as few as two hours in advance. Nanno runs a full criminal background check on all its sitters and requires a skill set for every person. They also offer on-demand matching and booking, quality control based on reviews, and free cancellation protection.
Liz Oertle, CEO and Co-founder of Nanno, is passionate about leveraging emerging technologies to solve real-world problems of everyday people, especially parents and families. A former startup lawyer turned startup founder, Oertle met Desi McAdam, a software engineer and director of a software consultancy. Together, they decided to build a product that would solve a real-world problem that desperately needed to be solved. That’s when the idea of Nanno took form.
Making the change from baby to toddler room is easier than you think
Oh, the toddler years. With so much to learn and explore, these rising big kids exhibit an ever-escalating independent streak one minute and crave a cuddle the next. And their rooms should strike just that combination of stimulation and comfort, too. We rounded up toddler room ideas galore, whether you want ways to repurpose old baby gear, simple nursery upgrades or chic toddler room décor ideas just to change things up.
Even if your wall art doesn’t scream “baby,” rotating it is a fun way to refresh a space and inspire your rising big kid. Cue up Etsy and scroll through its gamut of printables (We love the ones spotted at NorseKids), many for as little as a few bucks, to commemorate family history or a recent vacation. If you have a little Frida or Picasso on your hands, frame homemade art, or, freeze this time of transition with a large canvas print of your big kid in action.
Does anything so starkly solidify the transition from baby to toddler quite like the conversion of the crib to a toddler bed or the upgrade to a big kid bed? Whenever the swap does occur, it’s a fun way to add decorative flair, whether it’s taking your tall toddler to pick out new sheets for a twin bed or going with bunk beds for siblings who share a room. Or, take things down a level with a CouchBed, which is exactly what it sounds like: a comfy cool-gel couch that easily converts into a bed. Without sharp corners or a high distance to fall as well as grey, blue, or tan covers that are washable and interchangeable, this bed will also withstand all kinds of spills—talk about a toddler perk.
It may be time to donate, or at least rotate, baby’s first books to make room for titles that will engage a toddler’s budding brain. Swap out those basic board books or whatever your babe has grown a little weary of (If you can’t bear to part with them, save them for a rainy day and your toddler will no doubt have renewed interest.). Restock the shelves with titles that serve developmental milestones on the horizon (like potty training and empathy building), as well as a few books to grow on. To inspire you, we have 100+ books every kid should read before they turn 12.
How many hours have you logged in that rocker? Whether you were feeding, cuddling or singing a baby back to sleep, these large chairs anchor many a nursery—and take up a lot of space. While a rocking chair is a darling way to organize a stuffed animal collection, you can also put that corner of the room to more regular use. Consider selling the glider or moving a rocking chair to a guest room to make room for little thrones, be it a beanbag or a mini armchair. If you want more of an art and activity station, check out our curated picks of kids' tables and chairs that fit every style.
While blackout curtains can be the cat’s pajamas for ensuring successful naps for babes, they can limit a lasting design. These whimsical new ones from Best Home Fashion will hang around long after your tot has stopped napping. Available in pink, mint, as well as a dark or light gray, the star cut-outs and sheer tulle overlay are the stuff that dreams are made of.
Get a Grownup Dresser
Ryan Pardini
Do you still have a changing pad taking up most of (if not all) of the dresser’s surface area? Ditch it! The toddler years are for potty training and learning to dress independently, which is a lot easier and safer to do down on the floor. Now you can finally adorn the dresser with new photos, an oversized stuffie, and toddler trinkets. If a detachable changing tray came with your dresser, they are often sturdy and already compartmentalized for diapers and wipes, so here’s a hack—put it at the bottom of a standard closet. It’s a great way to organize and slide out shoes, toys, or that bin of clothes waiting to be grown into. You can even get really streamlined and try out a clothing capsule for kids, which encourages independence.
Transitions like these are also in the details. Go through closets and shelving and purge bonafide baby items: the stack of burp cloths, the NoseFrida, half-empty tubes of creams and things, diapers that never got used, etc. It can be hard to part—we grow sentimental and may feel a little guilty, but fortunately, we found clever ways to upcycle that old baby gear. So, while you’re purging, think about turning muslin baby swaddles into toddler fashions, old diaper boxes into toy bins, or painted baby food jars into color-coordinated crayon containers.
Add an Epic Fort
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With many a game of hide-and-seek or imagined dragons and castles on the horizon, build a fort, pitch a tent or erect a teepee. Those tummy time blankets can now be used to build an absolutely epic hideaway.
Floor time is still important for toddlers, so consider a chic mat you don’t have to hide when guests arrive. These Toki Mats add a stylish touch to any room all on their own, are made of 100% natural materials, and their cotton covers are machine washable (to get you well beyond the spit-up years). Cushioned, too, tots can practice summersaults and you can feel more comfortable down on the floor. And if you plan to have another baby (or already have one) and want a safe place for your toddler and newborn to play together, this is a great solution.
It’s Women’s History Month, and there’s no better time to give major props to some of the legendary women who come from or have made Texas a better place. From the “mother of Dallas” to the one and only Janis Joplin, our list of inspiring women really give meaning to the saying “Don’t Mess with Texas.” Keep reading to discover more about these iconic females.
Born in Golden, Texas, Kacey Musgraves started writing songs at the age of eight. With the help of her family, she released a solo album at the age of 14. After high school graduation, she moved to Austin and, in 2008, was noticed by local producer Monte Robinson. Known for progressive country lyrics, her first solo debut single "Merry Go Round" was on the same album with "Follow Your Arrow," which Rolling Stone magazine listed as 39 in its list of 100 top country songs of all time. She has won six Grammy Awards, is an advocate for the LBGTQ community and continues to create original country music that challenges the genre.
Considered to be the "founding mother of Dallas," Sarah Cockrell's family was one of the first pioneering families in Dallas county. She was a businesswoman who played an essential role in the development of the city, and at one point, she owned nearly a fourth of downtown Dallas. She and her husband, Alexander Cockrell, owned a ferry service on the Trinity River, a sawmill, and were involved in brick making, construction, real estate. Besides managing all the home duties of the era, she also oversaw the records, handled the money and kept up with the correspondence the businesses required. After her husband was killed in 1858, Sarah took over and expanded the businesses. She was also responsible for the construction of an iron suspension bridge that went over the Trinity, which was a developmental milestone for the city of Dallas.
As the first African American and Native American to earn her pilot’s license, Bessie was an early American aviation pioneer. Born to a family of sharecroppers in Atlanta, TX, she worked the cotton fields while attending a segregated school. After developing an interest in aviation, she saved her money and went to France to get her license. Upon her return to the United States, she became a high-profile pilot in dangerous air shows. Popularly known as Queen Bess and Brave Bessie, her life was tragically cut short when she died in an airplane crash in 1926.
Carrie Marcus (1883-1953)
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Carrie Marcus was an American businesswoman and one of the co-founders of Nieman Marcus, a luxury department store based in Dallas, TX. While she never received a formal education, she was taught at home and spent hours reading German newspapers and European fashion magazines. In 1899, after moving to Dallas, she became a top saleswoman at A. Harris and Company. In 1907, Carrie, her husband Al Nieman, and her brother Herman started Nieman Marcus. The men handled the finances and the logistics, and Carrie, with her knowledge of fashion and department stores, handled the buying. Soon, she was traveling to New York Paris to bring back ready-to-wear fashion to an eager Dallas society.
The store was a success, due in part to the fact that it carried specialized items that couldn’t be found anywhere else. She established the Neiman Marcus Fashion Award in 1938, which pushed the store into the upper echelons of fashion and couture. In 1950, Marcus became the chairman of the board of directors when her brother died, and she remained involved with the day-to-day decisions until she died in 1953.
Born into a Mexican Comanche family, Emma Tenayuca was an American labor leader, union organizer and educator. Famous for her work during the 1938 San Antonio pecan shellers strike, Tenayuca helped 12,000 workers strike in protest of a wage reduction of one cent per pound of shelled pecans and inhuman working conditions. Later that year, the National Labor Relations Act raised wages to 25 cents an hour. Until and even after her death, she continued to inspire activists, as can be seen in the bilingual book, That’s Not Fair! Emma Tenayuca’s Struggle for Justice.
One of the most famous musical artists of all time, singer/songwriter Janis Joplin was born in Port Arthur, TX. Known for her mezzo-soprano vocals and electrifying stage presence, Joplin’s music was highly influenced by female jazz greats, like Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith. An outcast at her high school, Joplin eventually attended the University of Texas, Austin, which is where she made her musical debut—her first song “What Good Can Drinkin’ Do” was recorded inside the home of a fellow student.
She left for San Francisco, CA in 1963, where she lived in the Haight-Ashbury district and worked with local musicians like future Jefferson Airplane guitarist Jorma Kaukonen and band Big Brother and the Holding Company. After her breakthrough performance at the 1967 Monterrey Pop festival, Joblin became a worldwide sensation. She performed at Woodstock and released three iconic albums before her death in 1970. She has inspired generations of musicians and singers for generations, including Florence Welch, Pink and Stevie Nicks.
Born in Brownfield, Texas, Sheryl Swoopes is a basketball legend. The first woman to be signed on to play for the WNBA, she has been awarded MVP of the WNBA three times, and she’s been named as one of the top 15 league players of all time. She’s won three Olympic gold medals and is one of only 10 women who have an Olympic gold medal, an NCAA championship and a WNBA title. In 2017, she was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.
Her college basketball career took off once she landed at Texas Tech, where, in 1993, she led the Lady Raiders in winning the NCAA Championship. Her jersey was retired the following year, making her only one of three players to be awarded this honor. In 1994 she was named to the USA National Team and went to Australia to compete in the World Championships. In 1997 she was signed on with the WNBA’s Houston Comets and spent 11 years playing with the team. After that, she had a short stint with the Seattle Storm, and then in 2011, after coming out of retirement, at the age of 40, she scored the buzzer-beating winning shot for the Tulsa Shock, ending their 20-game losing streak. In 2017, Swoopes returned to her Alma Matter, Texas Tech, and is still an assistant coach today.
Yup, that Mary Kay. The Texas entrepreneur was the founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics. She started at Stanley Home Products in the ‘60s, and when Kay was passed over for a promotion (which was given to someone she had trained), she grew frustrated with the challenges women faced in the workforce. She started to write a book in hopes of assisting women in business, and that book turned out to be her business plan for what would become one of the most famous cosmetics companies in the world. Her first storefront location was in Dallas, TX; it was 500-square feet and had nine saleswomen. The business was set up in the “house party” mode similar to what Stanley and other companies such as Tupperware used. She would offer friends facials, and then she would pitch her products, which proved to be enormously successful.
At the time of her death, her personal wealth was approximately 98 billion, and her company had a sales force of over eight hundred thousand in over three dozen countries. Mary Kay Ash received many awards in her lifetime, including receiving the Golden Plate Award of the American Academy of Achievement in 1980 and being inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 1996.
A Dallas, TX native, Badu is an American singer-songwriter, and actress and producer. She is a graduate of the prestigious Booker T. Washington High School for the Visual and Performing Arts. Her musical influences include R&B, ‘70s soul and ‘80s hip hop. She’s been compared to jazz legend Billie Holiday and is oftentimes referred to as the Queen of Neo Soul. Her breakout performance was in 1994 when she opened for D'Angelo in Fort Worth, TX. Her first album, Baduzim produced four singles, including classic songs like “On & On” and “Appletree.” She was awarded a Grammy for “On & On,” and the album won Best R&B Album of the year. She went on to record five more albums, several of which have been certified gold, platinum and double platinum.
Known for her funky style of bold colors, large headwraps and even larger hats, Badu has had a long, successful career in the music industry, as well as in Hollywood. She’s appeared in several movies including Blues Brothers 2000 and The Cider House Rules. Badu splits her time between South Dallas and New York, and she remains extremely active in her hometown. In 1997 she set up the Beautiful Love Incorporated Non Profit Development (B.L.I.N.D), and one of their first ventures was the save and restore the Black Forest Theater. Serving as a community and cultural center in South Dallas, the theater has played host to illustrious musical icons, like Snoop Dog, Jill Scott, Talib Kweli and Questlove.
Jenny Boucek (1973-)
courtesy Jenny Boucek
Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Jenny Boucek is the third female coach in NBA history, and the only single mom coaching in The Association. She was born and raised in Nashville, TN. She played basketball at the University of Virginia from 1992-96, where she helped lead the team to four regular season Atlantic Coast Conference Championships and three NCAA Elite Eight appearances. She was recognized as a GTE All-American and Defensive Player of the Year twice, and she finished her tenure at Virginia with over 1000 points.
Boucek has enjoyed a long and illustrious basketball career. As an inaugural WNBA player, she played for the Cleveland Rockers in 1997 before an injury ended her career in 1998. She came back as a coach for the Washington Mystics in 1999, spent three seasons with the Miami Sol, and she was an assistant coach with the Seattle Storm when they won their first WNBA Championship in 2004. She spent two seasons as the head coach for the Sacramento Monarchs before moving back to the position of head coach for the Storm. She then made the move to the NBA, where she was an assistant coach with the Sacramento Kings before moving to the Dallas Mavericks. About parenting, she says “I can’t imagine life without my daughter,” and several Mavs players, who were also raised by single moms, can identify with Coach Boucek.
Born in Milwaukee, WI, to an unwed mother, Gladney was an early advocate for disadvantaged children in Texas. In 1904, she was sent to stay with an aunt and uncle in Fort Worth; she eloped with her husband in 1906, and they moved to Sherman, TX in 1913. As a member of the Sherman Civic League, Gladney discovered the Grayson County Poor Farm—a spot of abandonment for mentally ill, handicapped and unwanted children. It had abhorrent living conditions, especially for the children, so Gladney spearheaded a campaign to make improvements. She went with other Civic League volunteers to clean it up personally.
Gladney went on to be an influential member of the Texas Children's Home and Aid Society. With the help of philanthropist Aamon Carter, she was able to secure the first kids’ home for the organization. She lobbied the Texas legislature on behalf of adopted children, and it is that said she personally oversaw the placement of over 10,000 kids. Active until she died in 1961, Edna Gladney paved the way for children’s rights in Texas for generations to come. Gladney's life story was told in the Oscar-award-winning film Blossoms in the Dust.
Looking for fun and free ways to bring excitement to your child’s day? Have some joy delivered straight to your mailbox! Kids will love seeing their local postal carrier arrive with free samples by mail, and there’s good news for parents: our list is full of items that encourage kids to learn about themselves and the world around them. From books to free stickers by mail, scroll down to see how to request free stuff for kids by mail today.
The Wildlife Conservation Society has been preserving wildlife and their natural habitats since 1985 through education, conservation and encouraging people to join in their cause. Recognizing the importance of inspiring children from a young age to be a part of these efforts, the WCS offers of range of learning resources, as well as free stickers by mail, featuring amazing animals that kids will love.
Chances are your little ones love to play in the dirt, dig for worms, and make mud pies. A group of some big kids (ahem, adults) that love dirt as much as yours got together to start the Soil Science Society of America so that they could study and support this super important part of our natural ecosystem. The SSSA wants everybody to learn and get excited about soil so much that they mail free I LOVE SOIL stickers straight to your home.
Do you have a little animal lover in your house? If you do, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) will send free stickers by mail so your child can show off their love of animals while inspiring others to show kindness to all of our furry (or furless) friends!
Books & Magazines
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) might be a go-to for COVID-19 facts and updates, but did you know that they're always looking for ways to help teach children about the health of themselves and their communities? Since books are always a hit, the CDC will mail free ones to kids when their adults request them here. Our favorite one, Amazing Me: It's Busy Being 3, that the CDC is currently offering follows Joey the kangaroo and friends along a developmental milestone journey.
Dolly Parton founded Imagination Library in 1995 to encourage the love of reading and literacy among children. Today the organization mails free books to kids from birth to when they begin school. Check here to see if your child is eligible to receive free high-quality books from Imagination Library.
PETA is on our list again, this time with their Kids’ Guide to Helping Animals’ Magazine. The magazine includes puzzles, stickers, and quizzes that aim to help kids learn about animals and how they can protect them. Want a free magazine mailed to your child today? It’s as simple as filling out this quick online request form.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) wants to get kids excited about protecting their environment. That’s why they offer free activity books by mail such as Planet Protectors Club: Follow That Trail, which takes kids through a fun-filled mission to protect their environment. You can request one here.
LEGO bricks are the ultimate imagination-building toys around so it’s no wonder that kids around the globe are passionate about their colorful creations. But sometimes, children need a little bit of inspiration to help kickstart their LEGO builds. Your kids will never run out of ideas with the free LEGO Life Magazine mailed to them four times a year.
Letters
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If your child dreams of getting mail from their favorite Disney character, encourage them to write to them. Follow this guide for tips on where to mail your child’s letter and which characters are most likely to respond.
The White House receives all kinds of mail, and you guessed it, a lot of that mail comes from children eager to share their thoughts on everything from the environment to White House pets! Does your child have something important to share? While they may not receive a personalized response, The White House secretary diligently attempts to mail a reply on official White House letterhead when you follow these instructions.
Seeds
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The Live Monarch Educational Foundation needs your kids' help supporting monarch butterfly populations by planting milkweed. While they encourage small donations to help keep their foundation going, they are happy to send free seeds by mail when you send them a self-addressed stamped envelope.
The Rob Greenfield Free Seed project strives to help people learn to grow and share food within their communities. We think this is a fun (and delicious) way to teach children about where their food comes from and get them excited about preparing and sharing healthy meals! Check out the requirements and join their 2024 waitlist, so they know you want free seeds mailed to your child.
We all know parents are warriors who can work miracles on very little sleep. But we’re also human, and humans need support sometimes. These online resources can connect you with experts, answer your questions, calm your mind, and provide valuable help to you and your baby.
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The Lactation Network Get the breastfeeding support you need, including 100% health insurance-covered consultations with lactation consultants (in-home, in-office or telehealth), help choosing a breast pump, and lots of useful articles to support your nursing journey.
New Kind Get one-on-one newborn support from certified postpartum doulas with years of experience in feeding, sleep and postpartum issues. Pick a plan, then get matched with an expert and meet them by video call.
Pregnancy After Loss Support (PALS) This nonprofit organization provides parents expecting rainbow babies with online support groups, in-person local groups, and an app with a milestone tracker, community support, self-care and coping tools and more.
pumpspotting This breastfeeding app gives you access to experts for virtual consultations and connects you with a community of parents living that nursing life. Read articles tailored to your experience, based on baby's due date and the date you go back to work. There's even a crowdsourced map of places to nurse and pump, with ratings and photos.
Cluster Get answers to all your questions about feeding your baby on Cluster, in a judgment-free, peer-powered community. Brought to you by baby nutrition company ByHeart, Cluster can set you up with appointments, classes and events with experts in the field, along with ways to connect with other parents with similar feeding concerns. Whether you're bottlefeeding or breastfeeding, you'll find answers about feeding and sleep, breast issues, setting schedules, baby digestive issues, bonding, self-care and more.
Motherfigure This maternal wellness startup is committed to supporting mothers through pregnancy, childbirth and raising children through providing them access to care and education. Find childbirth education classes (online or in person); search for doulas, lactation consultants and more in your area; shop for maternity and nursing clothes; and read lots of first-person accounts and reviews.
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Exhale Parent This educational resource gives new parents and parents-to-be the legal and financial information they need. If you have questions about topics such as maximizing paternal leave, writing a contract for a caretaker for your child, budgeting, creating a will or choosing a 529 plan, Exhale Parent can help. The site breaks down topics so they're easier to understand and lets you know the steps involved so you can tackle them efficiently.
boober Founded by a doula, this online marketplace helps expectant and new parents find high-quality classes on childbirth and postpartum support (topics include infant CPR, pumping and newborn sleep), as well as vetted, expert maternal care providers, including lactation consultants, doulas and mental health therapists. Sessions are held in-person or virtually and include free live webinars.
Postpartum Support International This organization offers online support groups, helplines & text services for new and expecting moms to help manage postpartum stress, isolation, anxiety and depression. Call or text the helpline 24/7 to leave a message that will be answered by a trained volunteer. There are weekly online support meetings for a variety of groups, including: pregnancy mood support, perinatal mood support, NICU parents, military moms, pregnancy and infant loss, and black mothers. Dads can also call for support or attend the monthly Just for Dads chat.
Parent Lab Parent Lab offers online parenting courses (online or audio) on a variety of topics geared toward new parents, including dealing with anxiety, increasing quality time, screen time guidance, sleep, and coparenting. The team of experts includes child development experts, behavioral experts and parent coaches.
Nurture by NAPS Founded by two labor-and-delivery nurses, who are also moms, Nurture by NAPS is a subscription service that offers evidence-based, instructional content on pregnancy through the first year of a child's life, including videos from medical professionals, live webinars, weekly live Q&A sessions, and the ability to ask nurses questions and receive an answer within 24 hours.
Tinyhood Tinyhood is an app and website that provides advice and support to parents and parents-to-be. Through live online parenting classes and one-on-one consultations with experts, Tinyhood tackles a ton of topics, including developmental milestones, sleep, introducing solid foods, breastfeeding, your postpartum health and more. The experts range from certified lactation consultants and sleep consultants to pediatric nutritionists and potty-training specialists.
Major Care If you need support as you care for your new baby, consider a doula service like Major Care. This organization matches moms with a certified postpartum doula that can provide 24/7 virtual postpartum care and support. This includes lactation, pumping, perinatal body care, vaginal healing and mood disorder screening and resources. You choose whether you want the services to begin before or after your little one arrives.
Tot Squad This service offers virtual sessions with experts on home safety, sleep issues, lactation, car seat installation checks and doula services (prenatal, early labor and postpartum).
FoodSafety.gov This government website lists exactly which foods pregnant women should avoid and why. There's also a handy graphic you can print out to make it easier.
La Leche League International This nonprofit organization provides education, training and advocacy around breastfeeding. There's extensive information on the website on issues related to breastfeeding, including food allergies, biting, caffeine, alcohol, mastitis, oversupply, reflux, tongue ties, vitamins and weight loss.
Kelly Mom Kelly Mom provides tons of helpful, evidence-based information around breastfeeding, parenting, health and nutrition. Founded by a lactation consultant, the site is organized by topic (including pregnancy and ages & stages), so you can find the information you need.
Healthy Children.org This website from the American Academy of Pediatrics hosts articles prenatal and baby information on a variety of topics. It covers milestones, nutrition, emotional wellness, immunizations, safety, family dynamics and health issues, all from a medical perspective.
Heal Talk to doctors using phone or video chat. The video chat happens within the Heal app so there's no additional software to download aside from the app. Doctors can order labs, write prescriptions, and refer you to specialists, making it easy for you to get remote care from the comfort of your own home. Heal also provides mental health services from doctors of clinical psychology. Covered by many health insurance plans (check for yours on the Heal website). Currently available in the following states: Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington and Washington, D.C.
Beginning eaters can be a picky bunch, but you and your child will love these new and nutritious foods and drinks designed specifically for babies and toddlers. Packed with healthy ingredients (hello, pea protein, grass-fed bison and bok choy) and available in delicious flavor combinations and kid-friendly packaging (puffs! pouches! smoothie melts! teething wafers!), they’re a win-win. Read on for your baby’s new favorites!
We love Cerebelly for their nutrient-rich, organic kid snacks, and the new bone broth pouches have our mouths watering. Available in three flavors (butternut squash chicken broth with thyme; carrot beef bone broth with rosemary; sweet potato pinto bean with cumin), they're packed with kid-friendly flavors and brain-supporting nutrients including lutein, DHA and protein. Created for kids 11 months and up.
This Australian-owned snack brand makes nutritious, wholesome organic foods for babies and toddlers with no artificial flavors, colors or additives. The line is broken down into two ranges: The Baby Bellies range features snacks for kids 7+ months and 10+ months in kid-friendly flavors and age-appropriate shapes. The Little Bellies range is for kids 12+ months and features animal crackers and tomato sticks. The snacks dissolve so they're easy for littles to eat, and the shapes and sizes are developmentally appropriate so kids can grip them and feed themselves.
Looking for a nutritious, delicious and easy way to prepare breakfast foods for your babe? Try the apple, carrot and cinnamon muffin mix from Happy Family Organics, or the pancake & waffle mix. You'll whip these up in five minutes flat, so they're perfect for busy mornings or days you want to focus on family time rather than cooking. Both organic, non-GMO mixes are made with 100% whole grains, iron and no added sugar. You only need to add water to prepare the pancake & waffle mix; add water and your child's favorite puree to the muffin mix.
You may know Holle from the brand's baby formula, but this Swiss company has recently launched nutritious fruit and veggie pouches in six flavors, including Veggie Bunny, made with carrot, sweet potatoes and peas. They're not only made with organic ingredients, the products carry the Demeter seal, which means the products meet the highest international standards for holistic, ecological and ethical practices in organic farming.
Available at holleusa.com, $19.99 for a box of six pouches.
Happy Baby Savory Blends from Happy Family Organics
Get your baby's veggies in with these new pouches from Happy Family Organics. Each flavor contains 1.5 servings of organic vegetables in each pouch, more than other leading brands. The veggies are blended with healthy fats, herbs and spices for delicious combinations that expand your child's palate. Each flavor sounds like it came straight off a restaurant menu: Squash, Chickpeas & Spinach with Avocado Oil + Sage; Broccoli & Carrots with Olive Oil + Garlic; Sweet Potatoes with Olive Oil + Rosemary; Purple Carrot & Cauliflower with Avocado Oil + Oregano.
When a snack attack hits, you'll feel good about giving your child these nutrient-rich puffs. They have a slight crunch and chewy texture that kids like, and you'll like that they contain healthy veggies, as well as bone broth for protein and organic olive oil for healthy fats. The three savory flavors are: Broccoli & Spinach Grain free Puffs with Bone Broth, Carrot & Beet Grain Free Puffs with Olive Oil, and Tomato & Mushroom Grain Free Puffs with Bone Broth. These puffs are non-GMO, USDA Organic certified and Certified Gluten-Free.
Available at myserenitykids.com, $32.95 for a six-pack of 1.5-ounce containers.
Smoothie-Inspired Veggie & Fruit Pouches from Cerebelly
What could be more enticing than a smoothie-inspired puree with Peppa and George Pig on the label? How about the fact that these veggie & fruit pouches are packed with brain-supporting nutrients such as iron, Vitamin B6 and selenium. Available in three mouthwatering flavors (purple carrot blueberry, sweet potato peach, and celery apple kiwi), the Cerebelly x Peppa Pig pouches are sure to be a hit at snack time. The company donates a portion of each product to Baby2Baby to support children in need.
With just four healthy ingredients, these melty puffs from Littlemore Organics are the perfect snack to pop in your diaper bag or serve at home. Available in two savory flavors, sunflower butter and tomato, they contain no added sugar or salt; no corn, rice or gluten; and no peanuts or tree nuts. The line was created by two Boston-based mom friends, one a pediatrician, who set out to develop a packaged snack that was tasty, nutritious and convenient to bring with you. For babies 6 months and up who have started on solids.
Yogurt smoothie melts with no added sugar? Yes, please! These toddler favorites get their sweetness from organic fruits and veggies, contain no preservatives, and come in a shape that makes it easy for kids to grasp and chew. Available in plant-based yogurt (made with coconut milk) and cow's milk yogurt varieties, these melt-in-your-mouth snacks come in three yummy flavors: Beets 'n' Berries, Carrot Raspberry and Mango Carrots. The resealable bag means you can pop them in your bag for outings. They're recommended for kids 8 months to 4 years.
Treat your Gerber baby to delicious, nutritious organic foods delivered right to your door with these subscription box meals created by registered dieticians. The box contents change each month to add variety to your child's diet and respond to their nutritional needs and developmental milestones. Each box is filled with USDA Certified Organic cereals, purees, pouches or snacks.
Available at gerber.com, starting at $69.99 per box/month (under $2 per serving).
Want to feed your baby healthy foods that broaden their palate? Try these bone-broth toddler purees from Serenity Kids. Packed with nutrients that help strengthen bones and support digestion and immunity, these toddler puree pouches come in flavorful varieties with no added sugars or preservatives: Turkey Bolognese, Beef Pot Roast and Turmeric Chicken. All are made with pasture-raised meat from small American regenerative family farms, organic bone broth and Certified USDA Organic vegetables and herbs. They're also free of ingredients that contain antibiotics, added hormones, pesticides, fillers, GMOs or major allergens.
Available at serenitykids.com, $29.95/6 pouches of each flavor; $32.95/6-pouch variety pack. Save 20% with a subscription.
These heat-and-serve toddler meals (designed for kids 1+) come in flavors kids love and are packed full of nutrients. The macaroni & cheese has 8 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber, along with 1/4 cup of veggies (pureed butternut squash, sweet potato and cauliflower). The pasta & tomato sauce has 6 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, along with 1/4 of veggies (carrots, sweet potatoes, red pepper). Both are low in sodium and contain no added sugar, additives or preservatives.
Available at target.com and in the produce section of Target stores, $4.99.
With 3 grams of protein, no added sugar and 10 brain-supporting nutrients, Cerebelly's Smart Bars are the snack you'll feel good about feeding your toddler. Think your child might need convincing to try something new? Two of the new flavors feature kid favorites Peppa Pig and George Pig on the package. Cerebelly was created by a neurosurgeon and mom of three to deliver age-optimized nutrition to children's growing brains. The bars in the Peppa Pig collaboration are carrot raisin and blueberry banana sweet potato. The bars also come in apple kale and strawberry beet. Read more about the Cerebelly X Peppa Pig Smart Bars.
Available at cerebelly.com, from $3.74 for a five-pack.
Plant-Based Complete Nutrition for Toddlers from Else Nutrition
This nutritional drink is free of dairy, soy, gluten, corn syrup and GMOs. What it's full of is minimally processed plant-based ingredients, whole foods and 20 vitamins and minerals your child needs to support their growth and development after they turn one. The main ingredients are organic almond butter, organic buckwheat flour and organic tapioca maltodextrin.
BabyPops are a puffed corn and oat snack that's sized just right for tiny hands. This quick-dissolving organic snack contains no added sweetener or salt, and the ingredients are non-GMO. It launched with three yummy varieties: peanut, banana raspberry and tomato. All varieties contain peanut; the peanut version includes organic peanut flour, and the other two are flavored with fruits and veggies.
Nutty Blends from Happy Family Organics combine a fruit with a nut in a tasty pouch, for a healthy, filling snack and an easy way to introduce peanuts and tree nuts to your baby. The line, which was developed with the help of pediatric allergists, comes in four flavors you'll be tempted to try yourself: bananas & almond butter, apples & walnut butter, pears & cashew butter, and bananas & peanut butter.
Learn more and find your nearest store carrying this product at happyfamilyorganics.com, $1.99 per pouch.
Organic Plant-Based Meals from Amara Organic Foods
Add breast milk, formula or water to these shelf-stable, organic, single-serve meal packets for a delicious baby puree, packed with nutrients. Great for kids transitioning to solid foods and quick and easy to prepare on the go, these handy packets come in a variety of flavors, from kale potato veggie mash and peas, corn & carrots to tropical mango and pumpkin & pear.
Available at amaraorganicfoods.com and at grocery stores including Whole Foods and Sprouts.
Organic Banana Mango Puree in a Recyclable Pouch from Gerber
Gerber has launched a recyclable baby-food pouch, so you can feel better about buying the pouches your kids love to eat. The first flavor available in this innovative pouch is organic banana mango puree, a sweet treat packed with potassium and vitamin C. The pouch is completely recyclable through Gerber's national recycling program with TerraCycle.
The nutrient-packed pouches from Serenity Kids sound like fancy restaurant meals. The two newest: pasture-raised turkey with organic pumpkin, sweet potato and beets, and grass-fed bison with organic kabocha squash and spinach. These low-sugar, high-fat pouches for babies six months and up are filled with organic vegetables from small family farms and ethically sourced meats from ranches utilizing regenerative agricultural techniques. Choose from meat and veggie combos, or organic veggies only. The company only uses ingredients that don't contain antibiotics, added hormones, pesticides, fillers, GMOs or major allergens.
Here's a smart snack for toddlers: These nutritious pouches support the immune system and digestive health. In addition to fruits and veggies, the pouches contain 35 mg of beta-glucan and 2g of prebiotic fiber for digestive health. They're available at major retailers nationwide and come in three flavors: bananas, spinach & blueberries; bananas, carrots & strawberries; and pears, beets & blackberries.
Why should we care about regenerative farming? It promotes biodiversity and can help to reverse climate change by building healthy soil that captures carbon from the atmosphere. Healthier soil, healthier food. The Happy Baby Regenerative & Organic line of food pouches debuted with three flavor combinations: apples, kale and oats; pears, squash and oats; and apples and carrots.
Available exclusively at Whole Foods, $8.49 for a four-pack. Learn more at happyfamilyorganics.com.
Babies love pouches, and you'll love that these organic, cold-pressed blends are sustainably grown, certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and full of healthy, organic fruits and veggies. The flavors are grouped by ages and stages, so you can easily find the ones right for your child. Purchase individual flavors as 12-packs, try a variety pack, or sign up for a money-saving subscription.
Horizon Organic has introduced Growing Years organic whole milk, developed in partnership with pediatricians to deliver key nutrients for kids age 1-5. The milk contains DHA Omega-3 for brain and eye health, choline to transport DHA throughout the body, prebiotics that feed good bacteria to the gut, and vitamin D, protein and calcium for growing bones. It's certified organic and produced by pasture-raised cows who are fed an organic, non-GMO diet and are never treated with antibiotics or added hormones.
Available nationwide at select stores for $5.99; use the store locator at horizon.com to find your nearest location.
The veggie-packed baby food pouches from Cerebelly are carefully tailored to nourish baby's growing brain and body. Created by a neurosurgeon mom and a team of medical experts, the purees contain tasty ingredient combinations (such as carrot & chickpea; sweet potato & mango) that deliver protein, omega-3 DHA and the specific nutrients your baby needs for their age and developmental stage. Pick up a three-flavor variety pack at Whole Foods or sign up on the Cerebelly website for shipments every two weeks. On the site, you'll enter information about your baby's age and current developmental milestones, and Cerebelly will recommend flavors that can benefit your babe most. You choose what you like and whether you want 1-4 pouches per day.
Available at Whole Foods and cerebelly.com ($2.31-$2.89 per pouch).
Biodynamic, Organic Pouches & Applesauce from White Leaf Provisions
Environmentally conscious parents will love these new fruit and veggie pouches and applesauce flavors (apple + pear, apple + cinnamon) from White Leaf Provisions. The offerings from this family-run business are both biodynamic and organic. You'll feel good about the delicious snacks you're feeding your kids, as well as the recyclable packaging and earth-friendly farming methods.
Available at whiteleafprovisions.com, $17.94 for a six-pack of pouches and $7.59 for a four-pack of applesauce.
Yummy new flavors of baby food and hearty toddler bowls! Happy Baby Clearly Crafted Jars ($1.25), which feature organic ingredients and the name of the farms where ingredients are grown on each jar, now come in six new flavors: carrots; green beans; carrots & peas; pears & prunes; pears, pineapple & avocado; apples, mangos & beets. The company's Happy Tot Bowls ($2.99) are full of nutritious ingredients and contain no added sugar. The new flavors are: turkey bolognese with lentil pasta, mac & cheese with organic lentil pasta & veggie sauce, and cheesy lentils & quinoa with organic cauliflower & parmesan sauce.
Sprout Foods, known for creating nutritious and delicious food that helps kids get their veggies and other nutrients, is debuting new pouches and snacks for both babies and toddlers. The exciting new offerings include organic waffles, quick-dissolving teething wafers, purees made with organic bone broth protein, four toddler smoothies (made with either yogurt or coconut milk) and two pouches of plant-based protein.
This freeze-dried baby food is packed full of nutrients and other magic: It doesn't expire and is super compact and convenient for travel (even in a carry-on!). To serve, mix the powder with water, breastmilk, formula, milk or broth. Or, for older kids, add the powder to prepared meals to up their health factor. Choose from delicious and nutritious options with clever names, including: Smashing Pumpkins (Japanese pumpkins and carrots), Goldilocks Chicken Congee (millet, barley, koshihikari rice, chicken stock, celery, carrot, bok choy and Japanese pumpkin) and Under the Sardinian Sea (wild sole, Italian white beans, tomato, oregon, basil and avocado oil.
New in January 2019 are Stonyfield Organic YoBaby Veggie Yogurt cups in purple carrot and sweet potato flavors, as well as Kids Whole Milk pouches in new flavors apple cinnamon, sweet potato, and blueberry apple carrot. The baby yogurt cups include no added sweeteners and, like all of their products, are certified organic and free from artificial hormones, toxic pesticides and GMOs. Find the new lines at Target, Publix, Hannafords and many more retailers (find a store near you). Looking for something non-dairy? Try the brand's three new non-dairy fruit and veggie smoothie pouches, made with rich coconut cream as well as half a serving of fruit per pouch. The pouches are available at Whole Foods and come in tropical twist, strawbana smash and berry cherry blast flavors.
Bowls & Bites from Yummy Spoonfuls
Yummy Spoonfuls
Calling all toddlers! Even picky eaters will love the flavor combinations in these bowls (veggie beef, sweet potato & chicken, pinto bean & turkey) and bites (turkey & spinach, chicken & sweet potato, chicken & broccoli). And parents will love that they're nutritious, organic and packed with protein, grains and veggies. And, best of all, they're specifically designed for toddlers' developmental and nutritional needs and don't contain added sugars, artificial preservatives, additives or artificial flavors. Launched in November 2018, the line also features bigger bowls designed for kids age 2 and up.
From birth through adulthood, a person’s growth is a continuous process. Various stages in one’s life are attributed to various types of developments—physical, behavioral and intellectual. Childhood, however, is the most important stage when a strong foundation for these three developmental areas can be put simultaneously and in a balanced way.
If you want your children to excel in all walks of life, it is important to understand how they develop physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually. All these developmental milestones correlate with each other as well.
Physical Development
Physical development is the process in which your child’s body grows and acquires movement, which includes gross motor skills, fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. Gross motor skills refer to controlling large parts of the body such as arms and legs. Fine motor skills refer to coordinating small body parts, hands, and fingers.
This area of development provides children with the ability they need to explore and interact with the world around them. Thus, you need to reinforce your kids’ development and foster further progress wherever necessary, for example, by providing new opportunities to practice new skills.
Here’s how to promote physical development in your kids:
Healthy Food
A healthy and nutritious diet is one of the most important factors for ensuring that your kids reach optimal development. In general, a child needs adequate dietary intake to have enough nutrients and energy to grow. A healthy diet rich in calcium, protein, and other essential vitamins and minerals, enables optimal skeletal and physical growth.
Physical Sports
Encouraging your kids to take up sports offers many opportunities for improving coordination, strengthening muscles, body speed, and agility. Along with boosting health and fitness, sports will encourage your kids to utilize all their senses, locomotor systems, and brain capacities. By choosing sports in their lives, your children can not only become physically stronger but mentally tough as well.
Exercise
If your child isn’t the sports type, regular exercise has long-term health benefits for your kids, including a stronger immune system that increases their body’s ability to fight diseases to a reduction in type 2 diabetes. Exercise also helps build a strong cardiovascular system and optimum blood pressure level, stronger bone and muscle structure. Kids are less likely to become obese as exercise enhances the body’s metabolism.
Parents are the ones who mostly inspire their kids to take up exercises and physical activities, or any other good habits for that matter. So you also have to keep yourself fit and healthy in order to work with your kids.
Social & Emotional Development
Under social-emotional development children acquire skills that allow them to interact with other people, and to express and control their emotions. It includes forming relationships, learning social skills, caring for others, sharing toys, self-reliance, and making decisions.
Here’s how to promote social-emotional development in your kids:
Create a loving environment
A loving environment is an essential factor for the emotional development of your children. A comfortable and supportive atmosphere helps boost their self-confidence. They learn how to express affection and successfully use body language as a means of communication.
Self-awareness
To promote self-awareness in your children, start responding positively to their queries. Children need attention, patience, and a lot of face-to-face interaction. Encourage them to try new things, and help them do what they are capable of.
Social awareness
Social awareness is very important for the behavioral development of your kids. Let them be in the company of other kids to play and interact. Tell them to show empathy and understanding towards others. Knowing how to positively engage with others and understanding their feelings will have lifelong benefits.
Intellectual Development
Intellectual development in children is usually characterized by how various mental processes—attention span, understanding information, reasoning, learning, remembering, problem solving, and thinking—develop from birth until adulthood. Understanding this area of development gives you insight about your kids’ ability of logical reasoning at different age levels.
Here’s how to promote intellectual development in your kids:
Develop problem-solving skills
Building problem solving skills during the formative years of your kids can be extremely helpful for their lifetime. You can encourage them to play board games, brain games, and puzzles. Encourage them to come up with original ideas, while waiting and listening to them patiently.
Improve attention spans
Increasing attention span can play a vital role in the cognitive development of your kids. How much attention your children pay to a task depends on whether they are enjoying it or not. Since kids entering school have to perform more structured, repetitive, and academic tasks such as writing and reading, you need to make their tasks interesting for them.
Improve memory skills
Since memory is a complex process, you can employ a range of strategies to help your kids recall information. You can teach them how to remember the sequence of letters of different words, names of animals using their unique attributes, and names of places with specific landmarks.
As a loving and caring parent, you need to incorporate best practices to nurture and pamper your kids. It is important that from the early stage of their life, you must focus on their physical, emotional, and intellectual development.
Smith Willas is a freelance writer at Assignmentbro , blogger, and digital media journalist. He has a management degree in Supply Chain & Operations Management and Marketing and boasts a wide-ranging background in digital media.
