Toddler Essentials – These Items Will Make Your Life Easier!

We’ve tried just about every sippy cup under the sun, and these are the ones we keep going back to. They are super simple to take apart for cleaning, plus all the lids and inserts are interchangeable. They work great for 1 year olds up to 4 year olds! These cups are so versatile, and they stand the test of time. It seems like other brands are either difficult to take apart, not durable, or hard to clean. I wouldn’t recommend any other kind than these!

These are the perfect spring/summer shoe. My toddler can slip them on himself, and they are great for water play or playing in the mud, as they can simply be rinsed or hosed out to clean. There are other brands available, but these are super durable. They come in a rainbow of adorable colors and look good with casual and dressier clothes alike.

Ohh Kosh shoes have got to be my favorite “regular” year-round shoe. They work great for summer or winter, and are a snap to put on with durable velcro. These shoes also have good grip for new walkers, and seem to fit for a long time. I bought these a little too big for my son, but was able to fasten the velcro strap really tight so they still fit and lasted longer!

 

My first son potty trained late, and once we realized we “had” to get him trained (we were about to move), I knew the process needed to be quick. I heard about the book “How to Potty Train in a Weekend” and decided to give it a try. Boy, am I glad I did! The author has potty trained 4 kids this way, and her method WORKS! Gabriel was literally fully potty trained in three days after using her method. You won’t be disappointed.

 

I know, I know… I didn’t think I’d be one of “those moms” that puts her kid on a leash. But hey, you do what you’ve gotta do while walking with a 2-year-old to maintain some sanity. Like knowing your kid isn’t going to dart into the street at any moment. This one is super cute. peace of mind is not to be overrated! This would also be extra helpful while traveling (airports, malls, etc.) Sometimes kids get tired of riding in the stroller and need to burn off some steam. This one has a backpack attached too!

We do smoothies most mornings, which allows me to “sneak” some greens + vitamins into my kids’ diet they wouldn’t normally get. They love it, but I was spending too much time cleaning up messes from spilled (or thrown) cups and straws. I found some stainless cups with lids and straws that screw on really tight – AND it’s impossible to pull the straw out! This has definitely cut down on the morning clean-up. These aren’t the exact ones I have, but they look really nice nonetheless. I also like that they’re steel, which means no plastic chemicals leaching into their drinks, PLUS no worries about glass breaking! These would also be great to use when transitioning from a sippy cup.

So important for the potty training youngster! You don’t want to follow them around all day, buttoning, zipping, and fastening. I’ve cut down on the amount of cute overalls they wear, sadly. Also – am I the only one whose kids’ pants are always too big in the waist?? Stretchy pants to the rescue.

I was so glad when we could switch to a booster seat instead of a highchair. It takes up much less space + easier to clean. I want this one by OXO – it folds up so you can take it anywhere! Plus its neutral and lovely.

Please share this post if these recommendations on toddler essentials were helpful or if you know someone who could use this!

 With Joy,