Must-Have Amazon Toys for Kids!

Where are my Amazon Prime mamas at? Here are the must have toys this season from Kidzlane to keep your kids happy, entertained and give you a few hours of quiet! The best part? They won’t break the bank! You’re welcome :)

1. Laser Tag Set

The most fun and exciting Laser Tag set that you can use at home! It comes with 4 guys, 4 chest pieces and even a moving target for your kids to practice with. Click here to shop.

2. Pull Back Cars

Perfect for 18months +, they’ll love the sound of the pull back cars and it will help them with their fine motor skills and dexterity. Click here to shop.

3. Color Changing Tea Set

Just add water and watch the magic happen with this fun and amazing color changing tea set! Perfect for hours of pretend play! Click here to shop.

4. Shark Bath Toy

These fun shark bath toys jingle when you shake them and will never tip over! Your kids will be amazed! Click here to shop.

5. Karaoke Machine

Hours of fun is guaranteed with this awesome portable karaoke machine! Complete with a microphone, speakers and pre-programmed songs! Click here to shop.

6. Kids Tool Set

The perfect toy for a little builder! They’ll love the battery operated drill and will feel like a real handy man (or woman)! Click here to shop.

7. My Body Puzzle

The perfect educational puzzle that won’t make your kids feel like they’re learning! Puzzles are available with girl and boy anatomy and are made from study wood. Click here to shop.

PAW Patrol to the Rescue this Easter!

This post was sponsored by PAW Patrol as part of an Integrated Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

With Easter approaching, I knew I had to find a super special toy to keep a smile on my son’s face. I love setting up a hunt for eggs that the Easter bunny left behind and the trail always leads to a big surprise at the end!

Like every child his age, my son’s world revolves around PAW Patrol and the Mighty Meteor Track Set was the perfect big surprise I was looking for (and the best part is you can order it online from Target or Amazon and have it delivered before Easter). PAW Patrol also has 2 other awesome toys that I think would make great Easter basket gifts as well: the Mighty Pups Charged Up Chase Transforming Vehicle and Charged Up Deluxe Vehicles.

For the ultimate Easter egg surprise hunt, I started by filling up a bunch of plastic eggs with chocolate and candy! These treat-filled eggs will lead my son right to his PAW Patrol surprise! I also used rabbit foot prints to lead the way and make it that much more exciting.

Now let's talk about this PAW Patrol Mighty Meteor Track Set. I’ll start out by saying that it is just insanely fun. The story behind the toy is that Harold Humdinger has taken the mighty meteor with his robot and it’s up to you to launch Chase in his charged up vehicle to save the day! It’s a SUPER interactive toy which my son loves and keeps him busy for hours! To help Chase save the day, you load him and his vehicle on the Team Jet Launcher, you push down on the back of the aircraft and Mighty Chase propels in the air and flies around the Lookout Tower! He pushes the meteor out of the robot’s hand before safely landing on the ground and saving the day. It’s such a blast and I guarantee your kids will freak out when they figure out that Chase flies!

My son was thrilled when he first saw his gift, but when I showed him how it worked, he squealed in delight. I haven't seen him this excited about a toy in long time. It also comes with a Mighty Chase car and a detachable Team Jet Launcher that he can play with separately as he pretends Chase is flying through our home!

Order your PAW Patrol products now so that they arrive in time for Easter! They're available at Target and Amazon.  Click here to shop!

If you're looking for other PAW Patrol gifts to put in your Easter basket, the Mighty Pups Charged Up Chase Transforming Vehicle is just as fun! It transforms from a car to a hovercraft so your kids can have hours of fun being heroes and keeping Adventure Bay safe! The Transforming Vehicle has lights and sounds and a projectile launcher for even more fun! Your kids will be running around and laughing while they help Chase glide through the air in this awesome and fun toy! It’s great for kids ages 3 and up and the lights and sounds will make them feel as though they’re on a real mission!

The Charged Up Deluxe Vehicles are great Easter Basket Stuffers as well! With lights and sounds and a removable Chase figurine, the smiles and laughs will be endless. And don’t worry! They have Rubble, Skye, Marshall, Zuma and Rocky too so make sure to get them all so that the whole PAW Patrol gang can save Adventure Bay together because, as Ryder says: no job is to big and no pup is too small! 

Gifting STEM Toys This Holiday Season (Copy)

This year I’m making a conscious effort to gift smart! You might be wondering what I’m talking about. I recently discovered the world of STEM toys and was a bit disappointed that I hadn’t learned about them before. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math but STEM toys focus on so much more. Although they look just as fun as regular toys, they’re actually tools that help kids develop their abilities while they have fun and learn. STEM toys generally consist of board games, building blocks and science kits and are available for children as young as toddlers all the way to teens!

We tried out and are sharing 3 STEM toys that can all be found in the GIFT WHIZ tool that was created by Learning Resources and we loved the toys so much that we’ll be using it to make informed and personalized choices for gifts for all the kids on my holiday shopping list this season!

Click here to check out the GIFT WHIZ.

Counting Surprise Party

This toy is the gift that keeps giving! Your little ones will be thrilled to discover presents that are filled with surprises! This gift will help them learn their colors, to count and to identify objects such as robots, cats, guitars and even a plane! It’s priced at under $20 so it’s the perfect gift for any 3 year old on your list!

Click here to check out the Counting Surprise Party

Hoot the Fine Motor Owl

Hoot the Fine Motor Owl helps your kids strengthen hand-eye coordination as well as an introduction to colors, shapes and number recognition skills. Your children will drop the coins in a slot on the owl’s head and use scissor skills to flap the wings and the coins come tumbling out!

Click here to check out Hoot the Fine Motor Owl.

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1-2-3 Build It!™ Construction Crew

There are 3 different ways your little engineers can put this toy together! They can build a digger, a dump truck and a bulldozer with easy and big snap together pieces. This toy helps to develop and strengthen fine motor skills, hand strength, coordination and other skills that help prepare them for preschool! Your kids imaginations will run wild while they learn and have fun playing with the 1-2-3 Build It! Construction Crew.

Click here to check out the 1-2-3 Build It! Construction Crew.

The GIFT WHIZ will guide you and help you choose the best gift for the children in your life! It takes all the guesswork out of holiday shopping! Click here to check out the GIFT WHIZ by Learning Resources.

Gifting STEM Toys This Holiday Season

This year I’m making a conscious effort to gift smart! You might be wondering what I’m talking about. I recently discovered the world of STEM toys and was a bit disappointed that I hadn’t learned about them before. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math but STEM toys focus on so much more. Although they look just as fun as regular toys, they’re actually tools that help kids develop their abilities while they have fun and learn. STEM toys generally consist of board games, building blocks and science kits and are available for children as young as toddlers all the way to teens!

We tried out and are sharing 3 STEM toys that can all be found in the GIFT WHIZ tool that was created by Learning Resources and we loved the toys so much that we’ll be using it to make informed and personalized choices for gifts for all the kids on my holiday shopping list this season!

Click here to check out the GIFT WHIZ.

Counting Surprise Party

This toy is the gift that keeps giving! Your little ones will be thrilled to discover presents that are filled with surprises! This gift will help them learn their colors, to count and to identify objects such as robots, cats, guitars and even a plane! It’s priced at under $20 so it’s the perfect gift for any 3 year old on your list!

Click here to check out the Counting Surprise Party

Hoot the Fine Motor Owl

Hoot the Fine Motor Owl helps your kids strengthen hand-eye coordination as well as an introduction to colors, shapes and number recognition skills. Your children will drop the coins in a slot on the owl’s head and use scissor skills to flap the wings and the coins come tumbling out!

Click here to check out Hoot the Fine Motor Owl.

---

1-2-3 Build It!™ Construction Crew

There are 3 different ways your little engineers can put this toy together! They can build a digger, a dump truck and a bulldozer with easy and big snap together pieces. This toy helps to develop and strengthen fine motor skills, hand strength, coordination and other skills that help prepare them for preschool! Your kids imaginations will run wild while they learn and have fun playing with the 1-2-3 Build It! Construction Crew.

Click here to check out the 1-2-3 Build It! Construction Crew.

The GIFT WHIZ will guide you and help you choose the best gift for the children in your life! It takes all the guesswork out of holiday shopping! Click here to check out the GIFT WHIZ by Learning Resources.

7 Toys Under $30 from Amazon!

Buying your children educational, good quality and fun toys doesn’t have to break the bank with Kidzlane! The holidays are expensive enough, between holiday outfits, the food, the cost of travel - don’t make toys one of them! I’ve rounded up a bunch of my faves that will have your child smiling from ear to ear without you needing to spend hundreds of dollars! And the added bonus - most of them can be shipped Amazon Prime!

Magnetic Fishing Game for Kids (ages +3)

This game is fun, simple and a classic. The inside of the box becomes an underwater adventure and your child gets to practice hand-eye coordination, colors, numbers and matching! This is definitely a toy can can grow with your child as they learn more and more.

Kidzlane only uses high-quality wood and non-toxic paint. This toy is sure to please a toddler on your list and at $12.99, how can you not smile about it too?

Click here to shop

Wooden Building Blocks (Construction & City) (ages +3)

This will be a favorite in your home, I can promise you that! We got Zane the Construction Site Building Blocks and the Wooden City Building Blocks! He spends hours building a little city and playing pretend school bus driver and dump truck driver! These pieces from Kidzlane are made from durable high-quality wood with non-toxic, BPA and lead-free paint and come with adorable containers to store the pieces in when they aren’t being used. I am obsessed with not only the quality of these blocks, but the detail on them as well! The cement truck spins, the dump truck can dump, the wheels turn - it’s never ending imaginative play that helps your kids develop motor skills, coordination and confidence while learning about colors and shapes! For $24.99, it’s a STEAL!

Click here for the Wooden City Building Blocks

Click here for the Construction Site Building Blocks

Gear Head Wooden Building Toys (ages +18 months)

My love for wooden toys and Kidzlane continues! This is an amazing gift for preschoolers and toddlers 18 months +. It will encourage them to use their imagination, to learn design, STEM engineering and there are so many different ways to assemble it, they won’t get bored. The colors are bright and vibrant and it’s made with real wood! I was surprised to see a price tag of only $16.99 on this!

Click here to shop!

Kids Doctor Kit with Electronic Stethoscope

Does anyone else have a child that loves to play pretend? This Doctor Kit from Kidzlane takes pretend to the next level! With Electronic Stethoscopes and a thermometer with moving numbers, your children will get lost in a world of imaginative play! For only $23.99, watch you child laugh and be entertained with a cell phone that beeps and a stethoscope that makes a real-life heartbeat and coughing sound! And don’t worry - the pieces are easy to clean and store away in a convenient little briefcase!

Click here to shop!

Pretend Veterinarian Doctor Kit (ages +3)

The perfect gift for the animal loving child is here! It’s a 17 piece veterinarian kit from Kidzlane that includes a plush dog, carrier, phone, clip board, dog house, exam table, stethoscope, glasses and more! This is one of the cutest sets I have seen after playing with this, my son keeps chasing my dog around trying to take care of him too! For $29.99 you won’t regret getting your hands on this!

Click here to shop!

Binoculars for Kids (ages +6)

This is the ultimate stocking stuffer! It’s priced at $16.99 and can be used all year round: Adjustable Binoculars! Your outdoor loving child will love taking this to the park and playing outside with it in the summer and your indoor loving imaginative child will love using it in your home to play pretend. It’s perfect for so many different age groups and can be used at sports games, on road trips and even on vacation! It has rubber around the eye cups to protect your child’s eyes and it was designed with your child’s size hands in mind. They’ll be able to adjust the focus and hold it perfectly! The best part? It’s damage resistant and comes with a carrying case so your little explorer will be able to continue enjoying it day after day!

Click here to shop and to see other toys from Kidzlane!

Sorting & Matching Educational Egg Toy (ages +18 months)

The cutest gift in the funnest packaging! It looks like an egg carton filled with plastic eggs, but when you open it, the eggs come apart and it becomes an educational matching game that teaches your children about colors and shapes. The eggs are the perfect size for their little hands (but large enough to not be a choking hazard) and it doubles as pretend food for playing groceries! It’s priced at $17.99 so it’s perfect for any toddler on your list!

Click here to shop!

Bonus!

Floor Piano Mat: Jumbo 6 Foot Musical Keyboard

So this one didn’t fit the Under $30 list, but it is honestly the coolest gift I’ve seen in a while so I had to include it! It’s a new release from Kidzlane and it will get your kids moving and singing! It’s a perfect gift to help them get out all their energy during the cold months when they’re often stuck inside and it will be a favorite in your home for years to come! It’s a 6 foot long piano mat with touch-sensitive keys and 8 different instrumental sounds that they’ll be able to skip and hop on! It includes 10 classical songs and comes with cards that can teach your kids how to play the songs! Is there anything better? They’re learning music, being active and having fun. It’s made from toxin-free material that can easily be wiped clean and is durable enough to withstand all the fun your kids will have with it! It’s $49.99, so VERY reasonably priced and I guarantee you will have as much fun playing on it as your kids will!

Click here to shop!

7 Toys Under $30 from Amazon!

Buying your children educational, good quality and fun toys doesn’t have to break the bank with Kidzlane! The holidays are expensive enough, between holiday outfits, the food, the cost of travel - don’t make toys one of them! I’ve rounded up a bunch of my faves that will have your child smiling from ear to ear without you needing to spend hundreds of dollars! And the added bonus - most of them can be shipped Amazon Prime!

Magnetic Fishing Game for Kids (ages +3)

This game is fun, simple and a classic. The inside of the box becomes an underwater adventure and your child gets to practice hand-eye coordination, colors, numbers and matching! This is definitely a toy can can grow with your child as they learn more and more.

Kidzlane only uses high-quality wood and non-toxic paint. This toy is sure to please a toddler on your list and at $12.99, how can you not smile about it too?

Click here to shop

Wooden Building Blocks (Construction & City) (ages +3)

This will be a favorite in your home, I can promise you that! We got Zane the Construction Site Building Blocks and the Wooden City Building Blocks! He spends hours building a little city and playing pretend school bus driver and dump truck driver! These pieces from Kidzlane are made from durable high-quality wood with non-toxic, BPA and lead-free paint and come with adorable containers to store the pieces in when they aren’t being used. I am obsessed with not only the quality of these blocks, but the detail on them as well! The cement truck spins, the dump truck can dump, the wheels turn - it’s never ending imaginative play that helps your kids develop motor skills, coordination and confidence while learning about colors and shapes! For $24.99, it’s a STEAL!

Click here for the Wooden City Building Blocks

Click here for the Construction Site Building Blocks

Gear Head Wooden Building Toys (ages +18 months)

My love for wooden toys and Kidzlane continues! This is an amazing gift for preschoolers and toddlers 18 months +. It will encourage them to use their imagination, to learn design, STEM engineering and there are so many different ways to assemble it, they won’t get bored. The colors are bright and vibrant and it’s made with real wood! I was surprised to see a price tag of only $16.99 on this!

Click here to shop!

Kids Doctor Kit with Electronic Stethoscope

Does anyone else have a child that loves to play pretend? This Doctor Kit from Kidzlane takes pretend to the next level! With Electronic Stethoscopes and a thermometer with moving numbers, your children will get lost in a world of imaginative play! For only $23.99, watch you child laugh and be entertained with a cell phone that beeps and a stethoscope that makes a real-life heartbeat and coughing sound! And don’t worry - the pieces are easy to clean and store away in a convenient little briefcase!

Click here to shop!

Pretend Veterinarian Doctor Kit (ages +3)

The perfect gift for the animal loving child is here! It’s a 17 piece veterinarian kit from Kidzlane that includes a plush dog, carrier, phone, clip board, dog house, exam table, stethoscope, glasses and more! This is one of the cutest sets I have seen after playing with this, my son keeps chasing my dog around trying to take care of him too! For $29.99 you won’t regret getting your hands on this!

Click here to shop!

Binoculars for Kids (ages +6)

This is the ultimate stocking stuffer! It’s priced at $16.99 and can be used all year round: Adjustable Binoculars! Your outdoor loving child will love taking this to the park and playing outside with it in the summer and your indoor loving imaginative child will love using it in your home to play pretend. It’s perfect for so many different age groups and can be used at sports games, on road trips and even on vacation! It has rubber around the eye cups to protect your child’s eyes and it was designed with your child’s size hands in mind. They’ll be able to adjust the focus and hold it perfectly! The best part? It’s damage resistant and comes with a carrying case so your little explorer will be able to continue enjoying it day after day!

Click here to shop and to see other toys from Kidzlane!

Sorting & Matching Educational Egg Toy (ages +18 months)

The cutest gift in the funnest packaging! It looks like an egg carton filled with plastic eggs, but when you open it, the eggs come apart and it becomes an educational matching game that teaches your children about colors and shapes. The eggs are the perfect size for their little hands (but large enough to not be a choking hazard) and it doubles as pretend food for playing groceries! It’s priced at $17.99 so it’s perfect for any toddler on your list!

Click here to shop!

Bonus!

Floor Piano Mat: Jumbo 6 Foot Musical Keyboard

So this one didn’t fit the Under $30 list, but it is honestly the coolest gift I’ve seen in a while so I had to include it! It’s a new release from Kidzlane and it will get your kids moving and singing! It’s a perfect gift to help them get out all their energy during the cold months when they’re often stuck inside and it will be a favorite in your home for years to come! It’s a 6 foot long piano mat with touch-sensitive keys and 8 different instrumental sounds that they’ll be able to skip and hop on! It includes 10 classical songs and comes with cards that can teach your kids how to play the songs! Is there anything better? They’re learning music, being active and having fun. It’s made from toxin-free material that can easily be wiped clean and is durable enough to withstand all the fun your kids will have with it! It’s $49.99, so VERY reasonably priced and I guarantee you will have as much fun playing on it as your kids will!

Click here to shop!

3 Essentials for the New Mama in Your Life

The holidays are the perfect time to spoil a new mama in your life! Chances are, high up on her wish list are items that will make her day-to-day life easier and more enjoyable now that she has a newborn! I’ve rounded up 3 items from one of my favorite companies: Boppy. Their products have helped me through 2 pregnancies and through 2 babies so I know that any new mom (or expecting mom) will be so thankful to receive one of them.

Boppy® Newborn Lounger

Recommended for babies from newborn to 16lbs, this lounger is the perfect gift for any new mom. It’s the only baby support pillow uniquely designed with a recessed interior perfect for your baby’s bottom, which means a new mama can set her baby down for supervised awake time and baby will be comfy and happy. It’s lightweight and easy to carry around so it can go where you go, making it a MUST HAVE for the holidays when you’ll likely be at friend’s and family’s houses with no crib in sight! It’s soft, machine washable and comes in 6 beautiful patterns to match any nursery and home decor! Click here to shop and learn more!

Boppy® Luxe Feeding & Infant Support Pillow

The Boppy® Luxe Feeding and Infant Support Pillow is a multifunctional lifesaver for new parents! It’s one of the items that I wonder sometimes how I ever survived without! It helps to lift babies to a more ergonomic position for breastfeeding and bottle feedings, making for a happier baby and mama! It also transitions as a support pillow for your baby to practice tummy time, neck control and sitting! The cover is removable and washable and you can buy different covers separately. Many of the nursing pillows I’ve tried are awkwardly shaped and don’t double as a support pillow for tummy time or sitting, which is why this one is at the top of my list! It’s so comfy, the patterns and colors are perfect for any nursery (check out the colors and patterns below) and it has a super soft velvet side that your baby will just love! Click here to shop and learn more!

ComfyFit® Baby Carrier

Nothing is more liberating as a new mom than having both your hands free! It used to be a rare occasion until the ComfyFit® Baby Carrier came along! Inspired by comfy yoga wear, the fabric is breathable, lightweight and so soft! It moves with you and your baby, so they won’t mind being carried in it all morning while you do your makeup, drink a warm cup of coffee and even prepare food! It’s easy to use and your baby can go forward facing or rear facing so it can be used long past the newborn days. It also has an adjustable waist and is machine washable. It’s everything you want in a baby carrier for a price that’s too good to beat! Click here to shop and learn more!

Outings With a Toddler? Contours Bitsy Has You Covered!

As a soon to be mama of 2, lightweight, durable and practical have become my 3 fave words to describe children’s products (and it doesn’t hurt when they’re over the top gorgeous too!). Carrying around a 2 year old and a diaper bag isn’t always easy (ok it’s never easy) so I’ve turned to light weight travel strollers to save the day 🙌.  

As we prepare to go to the hospital to deliver baby #2 in just a few days, our Contours Bitsy Compact Fold Stroller will be an item we don’t leave behind. It will make navigating the hospital hallways much more enjoyable for Zane (and my husband) and it’s lightweight enough that we can easily carry it too If my son decides he wants to walk!

Whether it’s for hospital visits, park visits or just lunch at the mall, the right stroller can make or break an outing!  I always look for a few MUST HAVE features in strollers and the Contours Bitsy Compact Fold Stroller checks off every box!

1. Easy to open and close. If you have groceries in one hand or a yelling toddler (much more probable), the last thing you want is to be battling with a stroller that’s complicated to open. The Contours Bitsy Compact Fold Stroller opens with the squeeze of a button and you can do it with 1 hand because it’s so light! 

2. Large compartment underneath. A lot of the travel strollers make you compromise storage for a lighter weight which means you’re carrying a diaper bag on you (kind of defeats the purpose of a stroller.... no?). The Contours Bitsy Compact Fold Stroller can fit my large backpack diaper bag underneath with ease along with my wallet and water bottle, making it the perfect companion anywhere we go!

3. Durable. No one wants to replace a stroller everytime your child spills something or everytime you hit a bump on a sidewalk, so a well made stroller is KEY. The Contours Bitsy Compact Fold Stroller has durable and soft gliding wheels that work on pavement and grass. The material is soft but wipeable and easy to clean so it will last spill after spill.

4. Comfort. Nothing will ruin an outing faster than an uncomfortable toddler. Believe me. So when I get a huge smile or my son BEGS me to get in a stroller, I know it’s a keeper! I also look for strollers that can recline, which allows my son to take a nap on the go 🙌.

if you’re on the hunt for an affordable, practical, durable and GORGEOUS stroller (that comes in an array of colours!), have a look at the Contours Bitsy stroller! It’s available at Contoursbaby.com or Toys R Us.

The Play Gym Built by Experts!

Save $10 off your purchase of a Lovevery Play Gym by clicking here

We stumbled upon Lovevery a few months ago and I was instantly attracted to the beautiful design, gorgeous colours, and array of learning tools for babies! The more I found out about Lovevery, the more I knew I needed to get my hands on one of their play gyms!

Made with sustainably-sourced wood, the design is just stunning. It takes 2 minutes to assemble and disassemble so it can be easily moved to any room in your home and taken with you when you go visit friends and family!

Every item on this play gym was purposely chosen and the detail that went into designing each piece is exactly what you want as a parent! It comes with an Organic Cotton High Contrast Montessori Ball, a Sustainably-sourced Wooden Batting Ring, Organic Cotton Teether with BPA-free Silicone Rings, a System of interchangeable cards to help stimulate every sense and encourage learning and a Play Guide with activities designed by child development specialists.

There are 5 development zones on the Lovevery play gym that you can cover up or leave exposed to prevent overstimulation and encourage learning! The 5 zones include:

1. Learning to focus

2. Making sounds

3. How things feel

4. Hiding and finding

5. Exploring colors

Save $10 off your purchase of a Lovevery Play Gym by clicking here

Bath Time Essentials For A New Baby

With a second baby on the way, I am being a lot more particular about the products that I MUST have. I saw super quickly with Zane which products were useful, a waste of money, and which didn’t stand the test of time with a baby. Bath time can be a total bonding experience with your baby or it can be super stressful as a new parent so being fully equipped is SO important!!

I’m rounding up my MUST HAVE bath time products for new and experienced parents alike who are expecting a new baby! These items will also make amazing baby shower gifts!

• A light, portable and adjustable bath tub is a MUST. You don’t want one that’s only for newborns because you’ll be replacing it shortly after your baby arrives and one that isn’t specifically for newborns will drive you insane. You will either be constantly holding up your baby so that they are propped up, or you’ll have your baby constantly sliding down the slippery inclined plastic.. I recommend the Moby Smart Sling 3-Stage Tub. This tub is awesome because it grows with baby through three stages: Stage 1: Newborn (0-3 months; up to 15 lbs); Stage 2: Infant (3-6 months; up to 20 lbs); Stage 3: Sitters (6+ months; up to 25 lbs). There are 2 positions that you can place the tub in and then you can completely remove the interior mesh once your baby can comfortably sit. The mesh also provides a type of “grip” that a simple plastic tub won’t provide which is great for newborns. Click here to learn more.

• An easy to grip, light, ergonomic bath rinser. I love the Moby Waterfall Bath Rinser by Skip Hop. We actually have this one in blue and have used it since Zane was born! It’s designed to keep water out of your baby’s eyes and ears, it’s light, and the one we currently have has lasted us over 2 years already! We actually ordered a second one because Zane loves to help rinse himself off in the bath so now I can get him rinsed off and he can help too! Click here to learn more.

• A large and soft bath towel. Don’t make the mistake of getting a small newborn one… it will last about as long as your clean shirt with a new born. I totally recommend getting a larger one that is soft, has a large hood (Zane had a big head that never full fit in the new born towels) and one that is good quality so that it can withstand daily and sometimes 2 times a day baths! For Zane and our new baby, we have always used the Skip Hop Zoo Hooded Towel. It’s soft, bright and vibrant, and great quality! Click here to learn more.

• A SINK BATH! Before having Zane, I had never heard of these, and I won’t make the mistake of having another baby without using one! The Skip Hop Moby SoftSpot Sink Bather™ is the perfect size for newborns and infants. It allows you to give them a bath in the kitchen or bathroom sink. It’s GREAT for when you’re on the go, visiting your parents or friends houses and accidents happen. It’s also super practical when you’re alone and your baby has an accident. It’s hard sometimes to contain the mess, undress your baby all while trying to fill up a bathtub. With the Sink Bather, you can put your baby right in the sink and use the sprayer or tap to keep them warm and start bathing them immediately! It has a velcro strap so that it can be easily hung to dry, it has neck and head support for babies and a mesh centre so that your baby is cradled. I am SO excited to give it try when our mini arrives in a few short weeks! Click here to learn more.

• Toys Toys and more Toys. They will keep your mini’s hands occupied and out of their soapy hair and will give you the time you need to properly wash them. I always recommend toys that move, toys that can easily be disinfected and toys that don’t have a ton of grooves and holes so that you don’t have any moldy surprises. Our 3 fave right now are: Count & Play Bath Puzzle, Zoo Paddle & Go Owl and the Mix & Match Foam Pals Bath Toys (these actually stick to the sides of your tub and will keep your baby entertained and as grow with them as they learn that they can move them around and make different animal combinations!).

If you think I’m missing anything, please let me know in the comments below! You may have noticed that all our products are from SkipHop. We did a massive haul at SkipHop and keep returning to them for our baby products because we love the quality, price and design of all their products. They’re a brand we trusted with Zane and they haven’t let us down! Click here to see their full product line!

Baby and Toddler Gift Ideas from Kidz District!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… good quality toys for kids is really hard to find. I was super lucky to discover some of my favourite brands when Zane was younger so I know which ones to stick to the second time around! If you’ve been following me for a while, then you know that I’ve been getting toys from Kidz District since Zane was only a few months old! His first toy was the Dolce Musical Giraffe (read my full review here) and it’s made it through 2 years of love from Zane and will be passed along to baby #2 :).

I got my hands on a few more of their toys and think that these need to be on all of your holiday shopping lists if you don’t already own them!!!

VERTIPLAY WALL TOYS

You can say “bye!” to clutter on the floor thanks to this GENIUS line of Vertiplay Wall Toys that stick to your walls (without damaging the paint!). We tried out the Tree Top Adventure and the Musical Rail Track but there are many others! Appropriate for ages 2+, these toys will keep them busy and occupied while leaving your floors clear of toys! They’re stimulating, educational and fit in with any decor! Click here to see the entire collection.

ORIBEL PORTAPLAY - WONDERLAND ADVENTURES

If you’re looking for an activity centre that can REALLY grow with your child, this is it! This PortaPlay is good for ages 5 months - 5 years! It easily converts from an activity centre with a ton of educational and stimulating toys, to a flat top table for colouring and other activities! Don’t forget to add on the matching stools (they come 2 in a pack!). A bonus? The activity centre and table have easily folding/collapsible legs so it can be transported and folded away. Check out the activity centre here. 

Dolce - Pull Along Elephant

If you’re looking for a cuddly new entertaining bestie for your little one, look no further! The Pull Along Elephant from Dolce will help your mini develop relationship skills while walking and having a blast with their new best friend. The elephant has a squeaker in his tummy and crinkly ears that your toddler with love, along with a teether and wheels so that he zooms across the floor! Thankfully, the wheels easily come off, so your toddler can bring their best friend with them for nap time! Click here to learn more or click here to see the entire Dolce Collection.

I only covered a few of my favourites from Kidz District! Click here to visit their website to see everything else they offer!

Only The Best For Your Little Ones From Aden + Anais

Surprise a new mom in your life by gifting her the essentials this holiday season! Take it from me… I’ve tried A LOT of products and finding products that will last, are beautiful and will be loved by baby and mama is not as easy as it seems! Thankfully Aden + Anais is always coming out with new collections so you can fall in love with their products over and over again.

Their Seafaring Collection is a beautiful mix of dreamy ocean colours and whimsical waves and dots. Each pattern is more beautiful than the next and Aden + Anais never disappoints with the ultra soft and cuddly cottons.

The Seafaring - Whale Classic Dream Blanket is a MUST HAVE in every nursery. It can be used as a blanket to sit on and play on on the floor, and as your baby gets older, it can be used as a blanket. We never go anywhere without ours and have a few in different patterns. You’ll LOVE how big and plush it is, and because it’s machine washable, your mini will never have to sleep without it!

The Seafaring Collection also has a super soft 4-pack of their classic swaddle blankets. They are the softest 100% cotton muslin that will ever touch your baby’s skin! They come in so many colours and patterns, the hardest part will be choosing which ones to get!

Finally, my last obsession in the Seafaring Collection is their Classic Burpy Bib. They drape over your baby’s shoulder and snap at the back to catch all drool and spit up that will escape your baby’s mouth! They are made from the same 100% muslin cotton as the swaddle blankets so you know that only the best is touching your baby’s skin.

The other collection that I’m OBSESSING over is the Seaport Silky Soft Collection. It features a silky soft feeling like no other, with more abstract prints that will fit in with any decor. The Silk Soft Collection comes in a bunch of different colours and patterns so you can find one to match any nursery!

The Silky Soft Dream Blanket is unique because it features four layers of luxurious viscose made from bamboo for THE MOST baby blanket. Your baby will love lying on it, cuddling on it and playing on it. It’s a great baby shower gift that any new mom will fall in love with.

The Seaport Silky Soft Swaddles bring swaddle blankets to a whole other level!!! You need to feel one to understand what I’m talking about! You can use them to swaddle your baby or even as a light and airy blanket for their stroller!

Lastly, the Silky Soft Burpy Bibs bring bibs to a whole new level. Made from bamboo fabric, it’s a bib that can go around your baby’s neck but also doubles as a burp pad! It’s shape also makes sure your shoulder is fully covered during burping, which is always a win!!

You can shop the entire Aden + Anais Collection on their website. Be prepared to fall in love with every pattern and design. Whether it’s for a holiday gift, a baby shower, or your own baby, you won’t regret choosing Aden + Anais.

Gifts That Give Back All Year Round

With the holidays around the corner, I think it’s more important than ever to try to give back this holiday season and it can start with what’s on your shopping list! This year I’m making an effort to be very selective with the companies that I choose to buy gifts from and My B Toys is one that made the cut. For starters, they care about our earth (which is an initiative that I haven’t seen from any other toy company). They scrutinize every piece to ensure its impact on our children’s world is as light as possible - they use recyclable materials and their boxes and packaging are designed to be reused and some can even be reversed to become gift wrap! Even the ink on their packaging is soy-based and their varnishes are water-based. They then go a step farther and give a portion of every sale to Free The Children which has built over 650 schools in communities around the world, providing education to 50,000 children every day. If you still need another reason to support them, their toys are just THE CUTEST. Below are the items that we chose for Zane and for our newest addition that’s due in April! Their toys are available at Target and Amazon.

Ribbit-tat-tat

Recommended for children 2 years +. it’s won multiple awards and is a frog inspired drum! There are beats from around the world, Ribbit-tat-tat from B toys is a frog-inspired toddler drum set and the winner of multiple awards! With its sturdy, toddler-proof construction, this frog toy drum is the perfect way to introduce music to babies and toddlers. There’s a retractable microphone where you can sing along, a voice changer and other games programmed in it! It will keep you and your mini entertained for hours :). Click here for more info!

Fire Flyer

This isn’t your ordinary fire truck! It lights up, vibrates and moves on it’s own! It has an extendable fire hose and even a ladder that goes up and down! Zane looooves trucks and cars so this was a no brainer win for us! Click here for more info!

Wonders Above

This is an acitivity that I am SO excited for. Whenever you shop for a new baby, there are always a few things you find that you can’t believe you lived without before. This is one of them! We had an activity for Zane but it was hard and often I felt he was uncomfortable on the floor when he was on it. This one is SO quilted and soft that your mini could even take a nap on it! It has 5 sensory toys hanging from the arc and it’s machine washable! Click here to learn more!

Magical Mellow-Zzzs

This is mobile any expecting mom NEEDS this season. It’s a musical mobile with a magical light show that will have your baby soothed and calm. The light show covers every hue of the rainbow with the sweetest melodies. You can take it along and hang it from a car seat, an activity mat or a crib! The bonus? It’s SAFE! This baby musical mobile toy is BPA and phthalates free. Made of a Super soft and safe fabric! packaging is recyclable and recycled, with soy-based inks. Click here to learn more!

Chewy Chews peace

This is the perfect firth teether for your little one! It has an adorable peace sign shape, is a beautiful color and will easily be held by your mini! It’s only available in stores!

Gifts That Give Back All Year Round

With the holidays around the corner, I think it’s more important than ever to try to give back this holiday season and it can start with what’s on your shopping list! This year I’m making an effort to be very selective with the companies that I choose to buy gifts from and My B Toys is one that made the cut. For starters, they care about our earth (which is an initiative that I haven’t seen from any other toy company). They scrutinize every piece to ensure its impact on our children’s world is as light as possible - they use recyclable materials and their boxes and packaging are designed to be reused and some can even be reversed to become gift wrap! Even the ink on their packaging is soy-based and their varnishes are water-based. They then go a step farther and give a portion of every sale to Free The Children which has built over 650 schools in communities around the world, providing education to 50,000 children every day. If you still need another reason to support them, their toys are just THE CUTEST. Below are the items that we chose for Zane and for our newest addition that’s due in April! Their toys are available at Target and Amazon.

Ribbit-tat-tat

Recommended for children 2 years +. it’s won multiple awards and is a frog inspired drum! There are beats from around the world, Ribbit-tat-tat from B toys is a frog-inspired toddler drum set and the winner of multiple awards! With its sturdy, toddler-proof construction, this frog toy drum is the perfect way to introduce music to babies and toddlers. There’s a retractable microphone where you can sing along, a voice changer and other games programmed in it! It will keep you and your mini entertained for hours :). Click here for more info!

Fire Flyer

This isn’t your ordinary fire truck! It lights up, vibrates and moves on it’s own! It has an extendable fire hose and even a ladder that goes up and down! Zane looooves trucks and cars so this was a no brainer win for us! Click here for more info!

Wonders Above

This is an acitivity that I am SO excited for. Whenever you shop for a new baby, there are always a few things you find that you can’t believe you lived without before. This is one of them! We had an activity for Zane but it was hard and often I felt he was uncomfortable on the floor when he was on it. This one is SO quilted and soft that your mini could even take a nap on it! It has 5 sensory toys hanging from the arc and it’s machine washable! Click here to learn more!

Magical Mellow-Zzzs

This is mobile any expecting mom NEEDS this season. It’s a musical mobile with a magical light show that will have your baby soothed and calm. The light show covers every hue of the rainbow with the sweetest melodies. You can take it along and hang it from a car seat, an activity mat or a crib! The bonus? It’s SAFE! This baby musical mobile toy is BPA and phthalates free. Made of a Super soft and safe fabric! packaging is recyclable and recycled, with soy-based inks. Click here to learn more!

Chewy Chews peace

This is the perfect firth teether for your little one! It has an adorable peace sign shape, is a beautiful color and will easily be held by your mini! It’s only available in stores!

Start Your Holiday Shopping With Funrise Toys!

With the holiday season just around the corner… I’ve decided to help you all out by rounding up some awesome gifts well before the madness of shopping begins so you can get a head start on your shopping!

Zane is almost 2 years old so he’s at an age where I buy him a cool and fun toy and he ends up being more interested in the box (parent reality). So I’m always pleasantly surprised when I find a toy that catches his attention and that becomes a favourite of his! I couldn’t wait to share with you Zane’s current obsessions (which I know your minis will LOVE too!). He lives, breathes, eats and would sleep (if I let him) with these toys!

HERODRIVE™ DC Super Friends Collection and TONKA Power Movers.

They are sturdy (Zane-proof) toys that light up, move and have his imagination running wild. He can pretend to be Batman as he zooms around the house with his bat mobile! It features lights, engine sounds, and music that bring the action to life! The Batmobile transforms into race mode by pushing the windshield forward to make the wings pop out. Zane can push the logo on the hood for unique Batman sounds, then push it again to send the Batman Racer racing forward with its cape flying behind!

Zane can also be the master of a construction site with his new dump truck that has lights, real engine sounds and even a realistic backup sound! The rugged Dump Truck features new Motion Drive Technology allowing for fun and intuitive play that brings the action to life!

They’re fun to play with, they were easy for him to figure out how to use and they are big enough that they don’t fit under my couch (mom win)!!!!

You can check out the whole HERODRIVE™ DC Super Friends Collection here.

And the TONKA Power Movers here.

Make sure to tag me in the pics of your minis playing with their new toys! There’s nothing better than a smiling, happy and entertained toddler.

Start Your Holiday Shopping With Funrise Toys!

With the holiday season just around the corner… I’ve decided to help you all out by rounding up some awesome gifts well before the madness of shopping begins so you can get a head start on your shopping!

Zane is almost 2 years old so he’s at an age where I buy him a cool and fun toy and he ends up being more interested in the box (parent reality). So I’m always pleasantly surprised when I find a toy that catches his attention and that becomes a favourite of his! I couldn’t wait to share with you Zane’s current obsessions (which I know your minis will LOVE too!). He lives, breathes, eats and would sleep (if I let him) with these toys!

HERODRIVE™ DC Super Friends Collection and TONKA Power Movers.

They are sturdy (Zane-proof) toys that light up, move and have his imagination running wild. He can pretend to be Batman as he zooms around the house with his bat mobile! It features lights, engine sounds, and music that bring the action to life! The Batmobile transforms into race mode by pushing the windshield forward to make the wings pop out. Zane can push the logo on the hood for unique Batman sounds, then push it again to send the Batman Racer racing forward with its cape flying behind!

Zane can also be the master of a construction site with his new dump truck that has lights, real engine sounds and even a realistic backup sound! The rugged Dump Truck features new Motion Drive Technology allowing for fun and intuitive play that brings the action to life!

They’re fun to play with, they were easy for him to figure out how to use and they are big enough that they don’t fit under my couch (mom win)!!!!

You can check out the whole HERODRIVE™ DC Super Friends Collection here.

And the TONKA Power Movers here.

Make sure to tag me in the pics of your minis playing with their new toys! There’s nothing better than a smiling, happy and entertained toddler.

The Only Stroller You Need To Read About!

I’ve been lucky enough to test out my share of light weight strollers, so I’d like to think of myself as an expert when it comes to choosing the best one! When I had the chance to test out another, I obviously jumped at the opportunity! With baby #2 due in April, I’m always looking to discover the best of the best baby products (plus it gave me an opportunity to play pretend-big brother with Zane and let him push around a stroller). I’ve been using the Bily Compact Easy-Fold Stroller for over 3 weeks - and there is not one thing I would change about it. My 6 fave features are below! If you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about yours! (scroll to the bottom of my post for outfit details - including my hat that you can use with a ponytail!)

1. You can fold and unfold it with only one hand

2. It’s SUPER compact and light weight

3. It has a HUGE storage space under the stroller that is easy to access (not the case in most compact strollers)

4. It fully reclines so your kids can stay awake for the fun or take a nap while you shop lol.

5. There is a handle bar that you can clip on toys to (none of the one’s I’ve tried before have had this)

6. The lock and unlock feature for the wheels is easy to activate

This stroller is hands down my favourite. If you’re looking for a light weight stroller that you can easily carry with one hand, bring on a plane and push around for hours without getting tired, this is the one for you! Click here to learn more or to shop!

The hat I’m wearing deserves special attention too! It’s the first hat I’ve found that you can wear with a pony tail or mom bun! It has an elastic at the top so you can keep your messy mom bun in tact and still keep your ears warm (how cool?!). It’s from My Gear Online and is so practical and cute! It’s an awesome gift for the holidays for anyone in your life with gorgeous locks.

The Only Stroller You Need To Read About!

I’ve been lucky enough to test out my share of light weight strollers, so I’d like to think of myself as an expert when it comes to choosing the best one! When I had the chance to test out another, I obviously jumped at the opportunity! With baby #2 due in April, I’m always looking to discover the best of the best baby products (plus it gave me an opportunity to play pretend-big brother with Zane and let him push around a stroller). I’ve been using the Bily Compact Easy-Fold Stroller for over 3 weeks - and there is not one thing I would change about it. My 6 fave features are below! If you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about yours! (scroll to the bottom of my post for outfit details - including my hat that you can use with a ponytail!)

1. You can fold and unfold it with only one hand

2. It’s SUPER compact and light weight

3. It has a HUGE storage space under the stroller that is easy to access (not the case in most compact strollers)

4. It fully reclines so your kids can stay awake for the fun or take a nap while you shop lol.

5. There is a handle bar that you can clip on toys to (none of the one’s I’ve tried before have had this)

6. The lock and unlock feature for the wheels is easy to activate

This stroller is hands down my favourite. If you’re looking for a light weight stroller that you can easily carry with one hand, bring on a plane and push around for hours without getting tired, this is the one for you! Click here to learn more or to shop!

The hat I’m wearing deserves special attention too! It’s the first hat I’ve found that you can wear with a pony tail or mom bun! It has an elastic at the top so you can keep your messy mom bun in tact and still keep your ears warm (how cool?!). It’s from My Gear Online and is so practical and cute! It’s an awesome gift for the holidays for anyone in your life with gorgeous locks.

Top Recommended Books for Toddlers - by YOU!

I put up a poll on my Instagram a few weeks ago asking you for your top recommended books for toddlers! Who better to recommend books than fellow mamas? Take advantage of free shipping all summer from Indigo.ca and stock up on the adorable books below! Missed my poll? No problem! Add a comment below with any books that I missed so we can check them out!

1. THE LITTLE BLUE BOX OF BRIGHT AND EARLY BOARD BOOKS BY DR. SEUSS

Inside this adorable blue box (with a handle that your mini will love), include the 4 books:  Hop on Pop; Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!; Ten Apples Up On Top!; and The Shape of Me and Other Stuff. They survived 2 weeks with my son undamaged so these books will withstand any child lol. Click here to visit Indigo to learn more.

2. SING A SONG OF MOTHER GOOSE

All of your fave childhood nursery rhymes are in this adorable hard covered book including: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star; Humpty Dumpty; Little Miss Muffet; Rockabye Baby; Sing a Song of Sixpence; Ladybird; Pussycat, Pussycat; Jack and Jill; Baa Baa Black Sheep; Hey Diddle Diddle; Rain, Rain, Go Away; Mary Had a Little Lamb; Pat A Cake and Hickory Dickory Dock. Click here to visit Indigo to learn more!

3. DR. SEUSS'S 100 FIRST WORDS

I was curious how many other words Zane could learn before saying Mama LOL. This board book has bright and bold colours that your mini will LOVE. Click here to learn more.

4. ADVENTURES WITH BAREFOOT CRITTERS

Learning the alphabet is fun with these little critters and this adorably illustrated board book. Click here to learn more!

5. DINOSAUR DANCE!

From the best selling author Sandra Boynton, this colourful and fun board book is all about.... dancing dinosaurs! What else!? Click here to learn more!

6. THE LION INSIDE

A beautiful book with a powerful message: We all have a lion and a mouse inside. Click here to learn more.

7. I LIKE MYSELF!

This book about self-esteem encourages children to love themselves! Such a great read and an important message to start teaching your children at any age. Click here to learn more.

8. ORDINARY PEOPLE CHANGE THE WORLD GIFT SET

This New York Times best selling series is all about what makes a Hero. Click here to learn more.

9. GIRAFFES CAN'T DANCE

Gerald the giraffe just wants to dance! With his long legs, it's harder than you think. When he finally receives encouragement from a friend, he realizes he can do it! This book is an inspiration for kids who dream big! Click here to learn more.

10. CHICKA CHICKA BOOM BOOM

This lively alphabet rhyme makes learning the alphabet fun! Click here to learn more.

Don't forget to take advantage of free shipping ALL SUMMER at Indigo.ca!

Top Recommended Books for Toddlers - by YOU!

I put up a poll on my Instagram a few weeks ago asking you for your top recommended books for toddlers! Who better to recommend books than fellow mamas? Take advantage of the awesome shipping promo they have going on right now: every book ships for free all summer long for plum membersfrom Indigo.ca and stock up on the adorable books below! Missed my poll? No problem! Add a comment below with any books that I missed so we can check them out!

1. THE LITTLE BLUE BOX OF BRIGHT AND EARLY BOARD BOOKS BY DR. SEUSS

Inside this adorable blue box (with a handle that your mini will love), include the 4 books:  Hop on Pop; Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!; Ten Apples Up On Top!; and The Shape of Me and Other Stuff. They survived 2 weeks with my son undamaged so these books will withstand any child lol. Click here to visit Indigo to learn more.

2. SING A SONG OF MOTHER GOOSE

All of your fave childhood nursery rhymes are in this adorable hard covered book including: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star; Humpty Dumpty; Little Miss Muffet; Rockabye Baby; Sing a Song of Sixpence; Ladybird; Pussycat, Pussycat; Jack and Jill; Baa Baa Black Sheep; Hey Diddle Diddle; Rain, Rain, Go Away; Mary Had a Little Lamb; Pat A Cake and Hickory Dickory Dock. Click here to visit Indigo to learn more!

3. DR. SEUSS'S 100 FIRST WORDS

I was curious how many other words Zane could learn before saying Mama LOL. This board book has bright and bold colours that your mini will LOVE. Click here to learn more.

4. ADVENTURES WITH BAREFOOT CRITTERS

Learning the alphabet is fun with these little critters and this adorably illustrated board book. Click here to learn more!

5. DINOSAUR DANCE!

From the best selling author Sandra Boynton, this colourful and fun board book is all about.... dancing dinosaurs! What else!? Click here to learn more!

6. THE LION INSIDE

A beautiful book with a powerful message: We all have a lion and a mouse inside. Click here to learn more.

7. I LIKE MYSELF!

This book about self-esteem encourages children to love themselves! Such a great read and an important message to start teaching your children at any age. Click here to learn more.

8. ORDINARY PEOPLE CHANGE THE WORLD GIFT SET

This New York Times best selling series is all about what makes a Hero. Click here to learn more.

9. GIRAFFES CAN'T DANCE

Gerald the giraffe just wants to dance! With his long legs, it's harder than you think. When he finally receives encouragement from a friend, he realizes he can do it! This book is an inspiration for kids who dream big! Click here to learn more.

10. CHICKA CHICKA BOOM BOOM

This lively alphabet rhyme makes learning the alphabet fun! Click here to learn more.

Don't forget to take advantage of free shipping on every book all summer long for plum members at Indigo.ca!