When my son, George, returned home from preschool that first day in December, he couldn’t wait to tell me about their new class elf, Snowflake. “She made a snow angel on our teacher’s desk!” he said, giggling.
Each day, he came home with new stories about Snowflake: she built a fort out of peppermints, she played in a ball pit of M&Ms, she got herself stuck on the ceiling fan. I laughed at each report, thankful for the creativity and care his teachers invested in curating this magical, new tradition.
About a week into the festivities, though, George arrived home with a question: “why don’t we have an elf at home?” I gulped and shrugged my shoulders as I unloaded the dishwasher.
“I guess, well, because Mommy doesn’t want one,” I replied.
“Why wouldn’t you want one? They’re so fun.”
“They seem like a lot of work to me,” I said after a short pause.
I actually couldn’t imagine taking on more responsibilities. Between work and motherhood, I could hardly keep the house plants alive. I felt myself falling short in every area of my life. And I had the perpetual sense that someone was watching me, evaluating my performance, taking note of each time I served chicken nuggets for two meals in a row or bribed my kids with candy to take their baths.
I had a list of unwritten rules about what was required to be a good mother. Each day we did not work toward our goal of 1,000 hours outside or 30 minutes of read-aloud time, I sensed that I was receiving a demerit. That someone, somewhere, was going to place me on the naughty list.
The idea of adding an elf—a figure I had to move, arrange, and play pretend with, all after tucking my kids into bed—to my already full load felt like an unwelcome burden.
Still, George wanted an elf. He was enamored… and persistent. So I conceded to his wishes and placed an order for our own house elf. When it appeared on our doorstep, my son was ecstatic. He nodded at me as I lifted the elf from his package. In it, there was a book: one that detailed a narrative about the elf. There, we were also introduced to a list of rules.
According to the Elf on the Shelf book that accompanies the figure, kids are told that 1) they can’t touch the elf without it losing its magic, and 2) the elf leaves each evening after bedtime to visit the North Pole and returns in the morning. After reading the book aloud, I said to my son, “but that’s not how the elf is going to live here.”
I proceeded to invite my son to take charge of the elf. I told him that he got to touch him and move him—that he was responsible for creating the magic. At first, he resisted: “that’s not what they let us do at school,” he replied. But then I told him, “not all elves have to live the same way.”
He accepted my logic. And it ended up being such a success! While I cooked dinner, my son made the elf a wardrobe out of construction paper. As I tidied the house at night, he built the elf a palace out of Magna-Tiles. On more than one occasion, I overheard him singing the elf a lullaby before they both went to sleep, together, in the same bed.
These new rules, where my son was in charge, fostered pretend play and imagination. It didn’t have to go this way, of course. There is no textbook for these sorts of things. The magic was in the freedom. By refusing to follow a formula, I gave myself a holiday—one where I could bear witness to just how good, how perfect, my son is without my micromanagement.
I found, too, that I could have an actual vacation whenever I resisted some of my internalized beliefs about good motherhood. I purchased grocery store brownies for a potluck rather than dirtying the kitchen to make homemade. I counted Christmas movies not as screen time but as memories. I prioritized my own joy rather than some projection of perfection—and my whole family had a happier holiday because of it.
It’s that time of year where kids are excitedly making their Christmas lists (and checking them way more than twice). We can guarantee their biggest wishes can be granted on the shelves of a local Chicago toy store. Shop your neighborhood go-to or venture farther out to discover a new-to-you gem—just don’t forget to stop for a steaming cup of hot cocoa while you’re at it! Or, maybe even a favorite hot dog stand for a super-speedy lunch on the go? Just trust us: you’re going to need sustenance when you start shopping these independently owned toy stores throughout Chicago this season.
Learning and play intertwine at this shop, which is located in the historic neighborhood of Hyde Park. The owners seek out good craftsmanship and clever toy inventors, and the store is big on safe, eco-friendly fun that's also educational and developmentally and culturally sensitive. They've been going strong since 1976, so they have their finger on the pulse of what kids like.
This hot spot is full of fun and educational finds, and it has a sweet nostalgic twist. Owner Ann Kienzle has worked in the toy biz for eons and stays on top of the latest innovations. She has a passion for the importance of play in a child's life and has created a well-designed space that inspires awe in all who step into one of Play's four shops, located in Logan Square, Lincoln Park, Andersonville, and the West Loop, its newest storefront.
Have a wannabe conductor on your hands? This specialty shop is worth the trip. Follow the glowing neon sign to a train lover's dream that has everything from collectibles to Thomas merchandise. Its specialty is O-Gauge electric engines, which were popular in the mid-1900s, from makers like Lionel and Mike's Train House. There's a separate toy room that has LEGO sets, Playmobils, and slot cars.
Saying this old-fashioned toy store is packed to the brim isn't an exaggeration. Its three locations fill every nook with play-rich, high-quality toys and books. Owner Katherine Nguyen is passionate about supporting small, local companies, so you'll find everything from developmental playthings for babies to science kits that grandparents can't keep their hands off of. Building Blocks is also known for its deep selection of Thomas, Brio, and Chuggington trains, but you'll also discover lesser-known finds.
Like Pinocchio, children will want no strings to hold them down at this Oak Park treasure. Cut your little ones loose to explore art kits, building blocks, puzzles, developmental diversions, and lots more. The owners of Geppetto's stand behind "slow toys"—back-to-basics playthings that children need time to explore and grow from. To that end, you won't see (or hear!) a lot of flashes, beeps, or electronic brouhaha on the shelves.
This Lincoln Square mainstay is what we think Santa's workshop looks like—toys, toys, and more toys everywhere. Also: a big air of whimsy. This sweet shop in the heart of the neighborhood's shopping district has been around since 1993 and is known for championing educational play. Go for games, puzzles, puppets, trikes, dolls, outdoor games, books, and just about anything else your little tinkerer's heart desires.
This mom-and-pop creation offers more than 250,000 products via their online store, but they have the best-of-the-best on display in their Lemont showroom. You'll find a sampling of hobby, craft, gift, toy and home & garden decor products offered on their website. They're also well stocked in Tonie figurines for those obsessed with the storytelling device.
These indoor games for kids include things to do to play with friends and family, perfect for both solo and group play
Is the weather keeping you inside? No problem. The good news is that we’ve got a ton of indoor activities for kids that go beyond your normal play routine. From crafting your own robots to writing stories, here are more than 100 activities and inside games for kids that’ll keep everyone busy.
68. Before there were smartphones, there were maps. Pass the paper reading map skills down a generation by showing your kids how to read a map, old-school style.
105. Finally, for the mom and dad who have crafted, created, entertained, and danced, you deserve a pat on the back ... and maybe even a glass of wine. Make things interesting with our wine bingo printable you can download. Cheers!
From the LEGO Duplo Dream Town Playground to the Gobbler 3-Wheel Scooter, these holiday gifts for 2-year-olds are perfect for busy little ones
Toddlers, specifically 2-year-olds, are developing at a rapid pace and they’re known to bounce from one activity to the next at warp speed. Finding gifts that keep them engaged, nurture their curiosity, and spark excitement is like striking holiday gold. To help you out, we’ve curated a list of unique gifts for 2-year-olds that are up for the task. From games that get kids counting to toys that teach how to communicate emotions to a racetrack that offers hours of fun—here are the best gifts for 2-year-olds this season. Got kids of other ages? Check out our top picks for gifts for 18-24 month-olds, teens and tweens, and babies!
LeapFrog Number Lovin' Oven
LeapFrog
This oven does it all. Counting and cooking, serving and sharing; this is preschool prep for little chefs. Complete with 16 fun ingredients and easy take-and-go play—everything fits right inside.
VTech® Go! Go! Smart Wheels® Spiral Construction Tower™
VTech
Get ready for some construction fun with this giant construction tower set. Over 4’ wide and over 2’ tall, this set has a giant spiral ramp, a bridge, a crane, a conveyer belt, elevator, and more! Cruise over each Smartoint® on the playset to hear revved up responses that drive learning!
How chic is this play kitchen? A play phone, chalkboard, and towel rack add to the realism (but we do have to warn you—please don't try to put it together the night before).
Create colorful roads anywhere—tables, cardboard boxes, floors, and more. (This is one of those things that definitely requires parental help to set up.)
Your 2 year old can practice sorting and color recognition by organizing each car into their own garage and opening and closing them with their coordinating colored key.
KiwiCo's Sensory Play Lightbox is museum-inspired to light up each shape to let them mix and match, see how each shape fits together, and shows them how different colors blend to create new hues.
A classic baby doll with realistic features, soft-to-the-touch materials, and easy-care cleaning. This one is definitely a doll they'll love for years.
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.
Little ones can be tricky to buy for. Well, unless you have our guide to gifts for toddlers
They’re not babies, and they’re not quite little kids. Our 18-24 month littles are at a special age where they’re exploring everything, eager to learn, and ready for anything. So, if you’re having trouble coming up with presents for them, you’re not alone. We’ve rounded up some of the best gifts for toddlers this season to make your job as Santa much easier.
There are puzzles, sweet stuffies, and even enchanted silk scarves. Of course, there are also the classics like a play barn, a soft baby doll, their first tea set, and Mickey even makes an appearance. Combining well-known characters and some new friends, we made sure there’s something for every kiddo on our list. We’re pretty sure you won’t have to look further than this list to create a magical holiday. Read on for our picks for gifts for toddlers.
LeapFrog Build-a-Waffle Learning Set
LeapFrog
Their favorite breakfast will easily become their new favorite toy that teaches them colors, numbers, and following directions.
Their favorite friends are all cozying up to their bedtime stories on these absolutely darling pajamas. They're created with Little Sleepies' famous Lunaluxe Bamboo.
It's a stroller and a trolley. Made of handwoven rattan, little ones just need to flip the lid and they can go from strolling their stuffed animals around to doing the shopping.
Stapelstein Stepping Stones are the original play 'stones'. They're soft, stackable, sturdy, and can be used in a ton of imaginary ways to get your little one's creativity flowing (plus, they're really convenient to use as seats, stools, or steps). Available in Original Rainbow or Pastel.
This starter DUPLO set pulls off a holiday gifting hat trick: It's a building toy, a vehicle (and we all know how much toddlers love pushing around anything on wheels), and it helps introduce them to numbers.
Sarah's Silks is all about open-ended play. Tactile toddlers will love the lightweight, floaty fabrication that lets them create and play for hours. These Mini Playsilks grow with them, long after they're done playing.
The best thing about silicone toys? They're dishwasher-safe and quiet! We love a great kitchen set for open-ended imaginative play, especially when you're trying to get stuff done in the kitchen and your mini-me wants to join in.
The Play-Doh Ride-On Activity School Bus includes 3 cans of Play-Doh, 10 numbers stamps, 6 shape cutters, and 1 roller. Just lift up the ride-on seat to reveal the play set.
This baby koala is so precious. Made from natural Peruvian cotton yarn, not only is it soft and collectible; it's heirloom-quality, so they'll have something to treasure for years.
Your little one will love this cute vintage-style music player, complete with rainbow light show, music, and color call-outs (not to mention headphones).
Remember those old-school bright cardboard bricks? They got an update with Bricklettes. They fit into your home's decor and the starter set of 10 is great for kiddos who have just started stacking.
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.
Everyone’s favorite budget furniture store makes it easy to create a cozy space for kids
IKEA lovers, take note: you can transform your kid’s room from drab to fab with a few clever ideas. We’ve rounded up the coolest ideas below, from a genius take on IKEA bookshelves to the cutest kid-sized stools. It’s amazing what a bit of paint and creativity can do. Check out all the things you can make with a simple box or shelf! Whatever you’re looking to add, there’s an IKEA kids’ room hack for it. If you let your DIY imagination run wild, these IKEA hacks will put the perfect, unique spin on your kiddo’s room.
These pint-sized stools are the perfect blank slate for a whimsical upgrade. Get inspired by Project Kid to transform the FLISAT stool into your kiddo’s favorite animal.
With some KNAGGLIG wooden crates and a few other supplies, you can craft a mini market stand to help fuel your little one’s imagination. Get the full instructions from Little Lifelong Learners, including printables that will bring your sushi shop to life.
While this storage system isn't technically a table, all you'd need to do is glue a few base plates to the top of the unit. The colorful bins underneath make a perfect place to stash LEGO bricks, and you can easily buy two or three of these to create a whole LEGO wall! This IKEA hack uses the TROFAST set.
If you’ve got a cupboard that doesn’t do much but collect clutter, get inspired by @pagesofemma‘s IKEA kids’ room idea for turning wasted space into a cozy reading nook using IKEA’s Kallax picture shelf units.
Some books are just as beautiful on the outside as the inside. Turn those colorful picture books into a wall of art by repurposing the MOSSLANDA Picture ledge into a book wall like this inspiring one from Waco Book Mom.
The DUKTIG Play Kitchen is the perfect addition to your playroom as is, but that doesn’t mean you can’t jazz it up a little. Your imagination is really the limit when it comes to this creative IKEA hack, a paint job, new knobs, and even a tile backsplash are some options. To keep it easy simply grab some marble-printed contact paper and cover the countertop and the shelves for a classic kitchen made for a mini master chef.
The $30 LATT Table Set at IKEA is one of the best bargains you can find. There are so many fun ways to upgrade the table and two chairs, but for a gorgeous makeover, you actually won’t mind having in any room of your house check out this hack from Cook Like A Champion.
You don't need to invest a lot of money in a changing table you'll only need for a year or two. A quick hack to IKEA's Kallax Shelf unit gives you a changing area with plenty of storage, this is especially helpful for shared rooms. All you have to do is strap a changing pad to the top and when you're blissfully done with the diaper stage just remove it and keep the storage.
Stuffed Animal Catch-All
Shahrzad Warkentin
This IKEA hack is so simple, but it will change your life. If your kids have a zoo full of stuffed animals, clear the clutter quickly by popping open the FYLLEN Laundry basket and tossing them in. It'll keep the hoard of toys contained, and it makes for a fun game at clean-up time tossing them all in.
Art Supply Organizer
Shahrzad Warkentin
Keep all of those markers, crayons, and art supplies organized and easily accessible with this easy IKEA Hack with the KUNGFORS Container. Hang the rail and containers from the wall above a desk or craft table, and you keep all your supplies front and center for craft time.
These toys and gift ideas for kids ages 6-9 include must-have items like the Bitzee Digital Pet and a Roblox gift card
It’s gift guide season, and today we’re tackling the elementary-age crowd (for younger kiddos, check out our preschoolers’ gift list and for the older crew our tween guide is a must-read). The 6-9 age group is so fun because they’re old enough to appreciate a thoughtful gift, yet still young enough to be wowed by the magic of it all. From the never-go-out-of-style gifts like LEGO sets to one of the hottest holiday toys of 2023, we’ve got a covetable selection of toys and gift ideas for kids ages 6-9 at a variety of budgets.
Air Hogs Zero Gravity Sprint
Zip, zoom, and drive this race car on any smooth surface, including the walls and ceiling.
The LeapFrog® Magic Adventures™ Telescope features up to 110x magnification and lets kids zoom in on the moon at night or nature during the day. Capture and save what you see, and explore out-of-this-world discoveries and more through 100+ NASA videos and images on the 2.4” screen.
If your grade school kiddo hasn’t been swept up in Minverse madness yet, here’s the perfect introduction. The kitchen comes with the UV-light oven needed to ‘make’ their treats, and two bonus recipes and oven mitts are also included.
The paper fortune cookie tellers of our youth are back and better than ever. This book is filled with tear-out pages to fill in and fold up (in gender-inclusive designs!).
Two toys for the price of one? We're there. This super durable set both light up and make sounds (but not overly annoying ones, we swear), plus they're collector's items. Hurry, though. They will sell out; they do every year.)
woom Bikes are designed specifically for kids and their needs. The woom OFF 4 Bike is a 20" bike that provides off-road capacity in a kid-friendly lightweight frame. Also available in black.
One of the coolest new toys we’ve seen in 2023, kids can pet, feed, and play with up to 15 3-D digital pets. The more they play, the faster they level up!
Create Like Frida Self-Portrait Mirror Painting Kit
Creative kids will be inspired by the world’s most famous self-portrait artist with their own art set that includes three pre-printed and one blank decal.
One of the hottest gift ideas for kids in 2023, little scientists can combine all the ingredients they need to create their very own beast. The sounds, lights, and mist actions give this kit an authentic lab vibe.
This brand-new game isn’t just fun for Barbie lovers! Design gurus will enjoy picking wallpaper and decor to create the ultimate home for the iconic doll and her friends.
Indiana Jones doesn’t have anything on your curious kid. There are six molds that look like iconic historical items like the pyramids, a Viking helmet, and the Great Wall of China. Using excavating tools, kids will dig for treasures in each one.
We love how Pair offers magnetic frames to customize your base frames, and we know kiddos will, too. Keep their sensitive eyes protected with a ton of color and lens options, so they can enjoy the sun in style.
Speedsters can create their own course with over nine feet of starter track, and you can incorporate materials you find around the house to create obstacles, tunnels, and more.
All of the fun of a pet without the cleanup! This interactive pup is ready for love and care and even comes with six games, like Fortune Teller and Ultimate Nose Boop.
Get your elementary school kids talking with three different sets of questions: Would You Rather? Family Edition, Would You Rather? Made You Think!, and Would You Rather? Christmas Edition.
In the latest installment of Dav Pilkey’s popular elementary school series, Piggy is back! Who will stop him from attempting to put his diabolical plan into action?
The ‘90s called, but we’re not giving these back! As fun as ever, kids can design their own line of clothing with this kit that now includes a set of cool stickers.
Put those leaves, acorns, and fall colors to perfect use
After months of sweltering temps, we wouldn’t be shocked to hear you’re looking forward to fall. Celebrate the season of pumpkin spice, snuggly sweaters, and golden leaves by making a cornucopia of fun fall crafts with your kids. We’ve rounded up a huge list of autumn-appropriate arts and crafts that’ll keep you going all season long. Happy crafting!
If your pint-sized Picasso was obsessed with the negative space leaf print, give this one from Mini Monets and Mommies a try too. It starts with the same idea (using the leaves to make negative space paintings) but adds an overlapping, abstract art aspect to it. Try it using fall colors or use a rainbow of hues. It’s totally your child’s choice.
Have you ever had a delish corn feast and then been left with a bunch of husks? You’re in luck because with this clever idea from Pink Stripey Socks you can whip up some DIY brushes and paint the day away.
Let the kids lend a hand (or two) to create these adorable arachnids from Fun at Home with Kids. Make a new one every year to document growth! Crawl over to the blog for materials and instructions.
Art time can be as easy as a duck taking to the water. Farm feathers paired with paint, paper, tray, and tape let your little birds find their inner Picasso. Find out more from Allison over at No Time For Flashcards.
Roll with a little messiness on this colorful creation from Things to Share and Remember. Pluck field corn, add orange, brown, and yellow paint, and let your little farmhand get to it!
Let them play with their veggies (maybe they’ll eat more too!). Grab green paint, chop a flat surface on celery, brussels sprouts (or other pulled up crops), then stamp and stomp until the cows come home. Artful inspiration from Chelsey over at Buggy and Buddy.
Who needs a paintbrush anyways? Paint, an apple, and oh-so-much fun! This is one that you might remember from way back when you were a tot, too. Head over to Simple Fun for Kids for … well, some simple fun for kids. Literally.
If your kiddos are looking for pretend play awesomeness, this craft from The Best Ideas for Kids is pretty rad. Now we're just going to need some real apple pie to go along with it.
So you say you’ve got a cork or two sitting around? Put them to use, and try out this perfect-for-preschoolers fall apple art activity from The Gingerbread House. This easy art activity lets kids explore printmaking without having to take a college class in some sort of complicated medium. No screens, pricey tools, or expert knowledge are required.
Sometimes you just can’t grow your own apple tree. In case your mini Johnny Appleseed is interested in trees, this activity from Crafts on Sea lets them explore in a creative, crafty way.
A little sparkle is always welcome. Seriously. If your kiddo is obsessed with everything that shines, you know all about how inviting materials such as sequins or glitter can be. This art activity brings the sparkle—in spades. Get the steps to creating a crafty, and super-shiny apple from What Can We Do with Paper and Glue.
Kids can get artsy with negative space. And, of course, fall leaves. Okay, so you’re not really making art out of leaves. Your child is actually making art out of the absence of the leaves. Of course, if your creative kid wants to keep the leaves she’ll remove from her negative space painting, she can always collage them onto another piece of paper or hang them together with yarn to make a garland. Get the full instructions from Mini Monets and Mommies.
Turn fall leaves into adorable little autumn friends with this cute craft. Inspire hours of pretend play (or at least an afternoon of it) with these puppet-like people who are made out of leaves. Get the complete how-to from Thimble & Twig.
Put your left (and right) foot in to create this adorable party decor from Mama.Papa.Bubba. From ghosts to cats, candy corn and more, let the kids decorate each footprint as their favorite Halloween characters. Take a stroll over to the blog for the how-to.
Lois Ehlert’s beloved children’s book Leaf Man is the autumn-y inspiration behind this these creative little creatures. Your little artist can use fall leaves to create almost any type of fall friend that she can imagine. Get the deets at Powerful Mothering.
Your child can create furry woodland friends—using leaves! This fab fall craft is ideal for kids who are into learning about animals, or for any child who just loves to create. Learn how your crafty kid can make these adorable creations at Handmade Charlotte.
If you’re looking for a way to use up all those popsicle sticks you bought that one time for that one thing, this fall craft for kids is perfect. You don’t need too many extra supplies, and the results are super cute. Get the tutorial over at Crafty Morning.
How pretty is this wreath from Happiness Is Homemade? Your kids will be amazed when you help them transform their watercolors into a gorgeous fall decor piece.
These happy nocturnal creatures are the perfect Halloween decor for your bat cave. You might even have everything you need lying around the house, too! Fly over to the tutorial at Buggy and Buddy.
Are your kids up for a little bird watching? Well, you need to attract the local flying wildlife to your yard. The kids can use fresh fruit to make a feeder that the birds will totally enjoy. Visit Mothering with Mindfulness to learn how to create your own.
This rockin’ craft from This Heart of Mine is perfect for hanging your little monster's artwork on the fridge. Check out the how-to and make a set of your favorite creatures.
This Mummy Pumpkin from The Everyday Home is hauntingly cute. Perfect for trick-or-treating or outdoor decor, have your mini-mummies create their own faces for a fun pre-candy collecting project.
Let the light shine in! Even though it’s fall, that doesn’t mean the sun is suddenly hiding behind a storm of clouds. Hey, it’s still there. And it’s streaming through your windows. Take advantage of the bright light and try this suncatcher leaf craft from Sloely.
It’s time for princess or prince pretend play. Your child can magically transform into autumn royalty with this maple leaf crown craft. Learn about this imaginative autumn art activity at Twig and Toadstool.
Magically transform a mason jar into a light-up lantern. This oh-so-cute craft is the perfect way to dress up your dining room table or illuminate a family fall party. Get the how-to steps from Chasing Supermom.
Screen time is inevitable, but these apps help make it a learning experience
All parents need a break sometimes, and there’s no shame in throwing a screen at the problem (aka a toddler who’s bouncing off the walls). But no one said it has to be mindless. With the right apps, your toddler’s screen time can be an excellent tool for learning everything from letters and numbers to social-emotional skills. Keep reading to discover the best toddler apps and how they can help grow young minds.
PBS Kids Games by PBS Kids
PBS KIDS Games
With over 250 games featuring your kiddo’s favorite PBS characters, this is one of the best toddler apps with so much to do and learn. Play educational games with the Wild Kratts, Daniel Tiger, Elmo, and more, all ad-free and offline.
Another classic educational app that grows along with kids. The games cover everything from math and reading to science, music, and art. With over 10,000 activities to complete, your kids will be learning new things well into elementary school.
You can’t go wrong with the myriad of unique educational games Toca Boca offers. The colorful characters and settings are designed to make pretend play even more creative and fun. Some of the best apps for toddlers include Toca Doctor, which helps prepare kids for a check-up, and Toca Life: Town, which invites players to explore daily life activities like grocery shopping, cooking, visiting the park, and more.
Follow along with Kodi Bear and her pals on an adventure through learning. Easily one of the best toddler apps you can get for free, it encompasses everything from academic basics to social-emotional learning through games and activities. It even teaches kids the importance and fun of exercise with dance breaks and yoga videos.
This excellent staple has been around for a long time and remains a staple as one of the best toddler apps. Through colorful graphics and games, young tots can begin learning and recognizing letters and their sounds. This awesome educational app grows with your kids, expanding letters into words and sentences as their reading skills progress.
There’s nothing more fun than learning through play. Toddlers can pick up social skills like empathy and sharing through engaging games and activities, like playing dress-up or having a snack. This is also one of the best apps to play together with your little ones. If your little can’t get enough of these adorable characters, Sago offers a whole suite of interactive games perfect for toddlers.
There’s a good reason this is the number-one preschool app in the Apple App Store—this monkey’s lunchbox is full of fun and kids get to pick a new “sticker” every time they complete a few activities. Its colorful design and playful sounds engage kids as they learn about shapes, colors, counting, and comparison through various games and challenges.
Pretend play is a fantastic way to help kids learn to engage with the world around them. This app offers six different settings to explore, including going to the doctor, getting ready for bed, and using the potty. One of the best parts is the Feel the Music game, which teaches kids how to express their emotions with music.
Toddlers and emotions go together like PB & J, and discovering their emotions is a big part of your kiddo’s daily life. This Sesame Street-themed app is the perfect tool to help tots learn more about their feelings and how to react and self-regulate in different situations. Kids learn calming techniques and ways to express their emotions in a healthy way. Even parents can get a good lesson out of this app.
This interactive e-book invites toddlers to get involved in this Sandra Boyton classic. The board book comes to life with sounds and music. Curious readers can tap on the colorful animals to hear the various sounds they make as the story unfolds. Kids can also tap on individual words to hear them sounded out.
Hungry Caterpillar Play School by StoryToys Entertainment Limited
Hungry Caterpillar Play School
Help your toddler prepare for preschool with Eric Carle’s timeless character, the Hungry Caterpillar. Kids can explore and develop math and reading skills, as well as learn about science and nature, all through Carle’s colorful artwork and designs.
Young kids can discover the fundamentals of music through a variety of games and activities. After a while, your toddler will be able to read and recognize rhythm, music notes, different musical instruments, and more. The music includes popular nursery rhymes and songs, like “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” and “Mary Had a Little Lamb.”
Live like Eloise, a pirate, or Aladdin in these themed suites
Who says a hotel has to be just a place to sleep? It’s time to make the hotel the destination by staying in a place that’ll whisk you away the moment you turn the key. Want to sleep in a Jurassic Park Gryosphere? That’s a thing! How about a fairy world suite that’s so authentic you’ll feel like you’ve shrunken down to the size of a mushroom cap? You can do that, too. From theme park suites to kitschy roadside attractions, here’s our list of amazing themed hotel rooms:
Jurassic World Kids’ Suites at Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Orlando, FL
Loews Royal Pacific
These suites have authentic Gyrosphere beds that’ll make your kids feel like they’re going to wheel right out of the room and into the Jurassic section of Universal’s next-door theme park. Kids get their own themed rooms, complete with floors that look like grass, and a Jurassic jungle mural on the wall. Grown-ups will appreciate getting their space, too, with tastefully designed king rooms connected via a door modeled after the dinosaur enclosure.
Live a Fairy’s Life at the Roxbury Motel – Catskills, NY
Roxbury Motel
This two-story cottage is so decked out in magical forest trimmings that will have you thinking you’ve shrunken down and joined Tink and her team in Neverland. The cottage has two bedrooms and a Cedar stairwell bound by branches and greenery that will make you feel like you’re ascending a tree into the canopy above.
Note: If fairies aren’t your thing but a trip to the Catskills is, the Roxbury has several other amazing themed dwellings, including a Medieval Castle-themed cottage that’ll have you feeling like you’ve been whisked into an episode of Game of Thrones, and a Cinderalla-themed cottage that’s got a full-size bathroom nestled inside a giant pumpkin (!).
Step Inside the Adventureland Suite at The Disneyland Hotel – Anaheim, CA
Disneyland Hotel
All we can say is: If you can shell out the few thousand dollars it takes to stay a night at Disneyland’s luxuriously themed suites, we’re jealous. The hotel has five “Signature Suites,” each one more gorgeous than the next. And while it’s hard to narrow down a fave, we’d have to go with the Adventureland suite, a two-bedroom suite decorated with exotic furnishings and one-of-a-kind curios. It looks like a place Indiana Jones would hang with Walt himself.
Step into Agrabah at the Hilton New York Times Square’s Aladdin Palace Suite – NY
Hilton Times Square
Anyone who’s a fan of Aladdin will want to check out this colorful Times Square suite that’s straight out of the fictional land of Agrabah. Furnished with Jasmine-inspired silks, framed prints from the Broadway show, layers of Moroccan rugs, and a genie lamp that was an actual set piece, guests will feel suitably transported (even though the awesome skyscraper view is 100 percent Big Apple).
Guests will also be treated to specialty drinks, complimentary breakfast, and free parking. But the best part? The room comes with up to four premium orchestra seats for the show, located at the New Amsterdam theater right next door.
Slumber In the Jungle at the Madonna Inn – San Luis Obispo, CA
Madonna Inn
This sprawling Victorian mansion just off the 101 Freeway in Central California is a shrine to all things kitsch. It has 110 individually-themed rooms, each one offering its own brand of over-the-top style, from the signature Madonna Suite (think velvet furniture and pink flower prints galore) to the three-bedroom “Harvard Square” with red leather and dark wood touches. But we like the Jungle Rock Room best for its authentic, otherworldly gaudiness, with vines draped across the ceiling and an actual rock waterfall in the shower.
Tiny sophisticates will want to hit NYC in style after spending the night at the Eloise Suite at the infamous Plaza Hotel. Inside the perfectly replicated abode, everything is pink and white with a zebra carpet—just as Eloise likes it. Your little Eloise-in-training will feel right at home, especially considering that the closet is stocked with Eloise’s clothes (try them on!) and the shelves are filled with her favorite books, toys, and dolls.
The room also comes with tea for four at The Palm Court, a special welcome letter from Eloise, welcome sweets and goodies chosen by Eloise, and an Eloise gift bag with a special tote bag, Eloise robe, and other fun Eloise gifts
The submarine door (you have to crank the iron wheel to open it!) is just the beginning of the adventure at these immersive suites that will thrill any fan of Gru and the gang. Kids will love sleeping in their own room, which is outfitted with missile-shaped beds and a Minion mural on the wall, while adults get their own quarters with a king-sized bed and not a minion to be found.
Love the idea of camping but don’t want to deal with setting up the tent and sleeping in actual nature? This family suite is the next best thing! Complete with an indoor tent (already set up for you!), faux firepit, picnic tables, and twinkling ceiling stars, you’ll get the perks of the Great Outdoors—without having to actually be, you know…outdoors. And when you wake up, you can explore the actual wildlife, trails, and outdoor activities Lake Tahoe has to offer (the hotel is a five-minute walk to the lake).
While the rooms here are spacious and filled with African art and decor to match the theme, the best part of staying at Disney’s upscale safari-themed lodge is the view: Book a Savannah View room and you’ll be able to spot more than 30 species of Disney’s resident African wildlife—including giraffes, ostriches, and zebras—from your hotel room balcony! It’s better than watching TV (at least, that’s what you’ll tell your kids).
Make Like a Pirate at LEGOLAND’s Pirate Island Hotel – Orlando, FL
LEGOLAND
Say “Arghh” and step inside the colorful pirate suite at LEGOLAND Florida’s newest hotel. The suite comes with a separate kids’ room outfitted with a bunk bed with a pull-out trundle, plus a fully outfitted LEGO play area. Meanwhile, pirate parents can rest easy in their own room while their littles search for treasure (there’s an in-room treasure hunt with real treasure every day!). That, and it’s all just 130 steps from the theme park!
Note: All LEGOLAND Hotels have themed rooms, with choices including LEGO Ninjago Rooms, Adventure Rooms, Kingdom Rooms, and Pirate Rooms. There’s also a “Beach Retreat” hotel with individual Caribbean-style bungalows.
Get in the Game at the Curtis Hotel’s Video Game Room – Denver, CO
The Curtis
Donkey Kong arcade console? Check! Mario-themed color scheme? Yep! Retro candy to fuel your sugar high? You bet! This tastefully designed retro suite (it opts for sophistication over kitsch-ification) is an ode to 80s and 90s gaming. Your kids will be all, “Where’s the Xbox?” But now’s your chance to show them the art of pre-TikTok fun.
Splurge-Worthy Extra: Want to go old-school with a group? The Curtis (which has a slew of other awesome themed rooms, including a “Ghostbusters” room on the 13th Floor!) has a “90s-inspired package” that lets you rent the whole floor and soak up the 90s era nostalgia with your BFFs. The package includes an endless selection of 80s and 90s snacks (think cheese puffs and Razzles); a set of iconic “moon shoes” for every guest room; a 90s-inspired silent disco; retro clothing accessories including chokers, bucket hats, and slap bracelets; and a dedicated floor attendant who is at your service throughout your stay.
The Barbie Ultimate Staycation at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur is everything your Barbie self wishes she had, including a toy Barbie Dreamhouse propped in the room for pretend play, plenty of pink/Barbie branding to keep you in the mood, a “Pink Afternoon Tea,” and a fully stocked closet with enough wardrobe changes for your mini to put on the Barbie fashion show of her dreams.
SpongeBob Squarepants Villa in Punta Cana – This two-bedroom, three-bathroom suite looks just like the famous yellow sponge’s undersea pineapple abode—with indoor and outdoor living areas, an infinity pool, and private butlers to cater to your whims.
Harry Potter Room (the Wizard’s Chambers) in London – You’ll walk through a hidden bookcase down a candlelit,portrait-lined hallway just to find this spellbinding Harry Potter-themed room located inside the 172-year-old Georgian House Hotel. Once inside, the room features stained glass windows, stone walls, archways, trunks, cauldrons, four-poster beds hung with velvet curtains, and an assortment of magical extras that Potter-obsessed muggles will love.
