Product Roundups

What does a 1 year old play with? What's the best gift to give a toddler that doesn't have lights, sound, and require batteries? And what is an 8 year old interested in? These are questions we get all the time. So we gathered up our favorite toys and gifts in the shop for each age group to help get you started. (And hopefully it's one less thing you have to worry about this holiday season!)

Encouraging kids to play outside is one of the best investments we can make in their health, happiness, and development. There are a host of benefits to playing in the outdoors, but we know all-too-well that putting down the screens to go out and enjoy the sunshine isn't always easy. Here are a few products that can help with that, too. 

The holidays are creeping up, and for many adults, so is the mounting pressure to gift children toys that are fun and educational - gifts that might not end up in the trash a few weeks later when the batteries die or a child looses interest. Here are a few perfect toy options that meet both criteria for fun and learning support.   

Learning through play - as a child grows, it’s a way that they can learn to make sense of the world around them. And chunky-piece puzzles are a favorite for serving just this purpose. Find out why this age-old toy is fun for toddlers and a key to building the foundation for later academic learning.

Looking for a gift for a 4-year-old? It's not easy finding the perfect gift. At this age, little ones are full of energy, curiosity and creativity. Boundaries are being tested, milestones are met, and every day brings something new. For a no-fail gift, look for a gift that offers both entertainment and educational enrichment. Here are a few of our favorites to get you started. 

I have been teaching in Early Childhood Education centers for the past 15 years, and in that time I’ve learned what works with small children, especially when it comes to books. Here are 10 of my favorite books to read with preschool-age children. 

Age 5 isn’t an easy one for gift givers. Toddler toys are a little too young, and toys like Legos might still be a bit too advanced. At this age, children are counting, drawing shapes, and learning to write their numbers and letters. They’re active but can also pay attention to longer, more involved books. Here’s are list of 16 no-fail gifts for anyone celebrating their 5^th birthday.

Board games are great for children’s learning and development, but they have also been great ways to connect with my children. Putting everything else aside for 20 minutes to focus on playing a game together can be such a great experience. Here are some of our favorite board games that even preschoolers can play.