Mariel's Picks 2012 ~ Gifts for Babies & Toddlers

…and, now it’s time for the little cuties. Today it’s all about gift ideas for babies and toddlers!

I totally intended on making my own blocks..but, I’ve been intending to for years now. So, I finally broke down, accepted that it will never get done, and ordered these Melissa & Doug 60 piece Blocks for my little Joey. Blocks are a classic, great for boys and girls, and a must have for every family room. Joey has a one track mind…and it’s all ‘trains’, but I think I can sway him a little with these! I have no doubt his older siblings will play with them too. If you’re thinking blocks, this set is the way to go.

Babies love bouncing, especially big babies. I had never heard of Rody, the Gymnic Horse before, but couldn’t help but read up on it after I saw how many people loved it. Your little tike sits on Rody and can bounce their little heart out…great exercise, and also promotes balance! Several colors to choose from.

All my little ones love taking baths, especially 2 year old, Joey. I’ve avoided color changing agents in the past, but reviewers promise that these Color My Bath tablets are the best! They say the colors are vivid and don’t stain the tub…plus, you get 300 tablets for just ten bucks!

Melissa & Doug makes the greatest products! Quality toys for great prices. Seems like I’m always recommending them. Anyway, I saw this adorable Wooden Bear Family Dress Up Puzzle where you can interchange the bear outfits, with 45 pieces to choose from. I think it would a great gift for the little ones!

For the younger babes, it’s nice to have something visually stimulating…it’s got to be boring lying around all day! This Wonder Wheel Suction Toy has won awards and lots of praise from reviewers, as well as the Manhatten Toy Winkel.

The Fisher Price Learning Kitchen has so many fun features! Babies can sort shapes, press buttons, flip switches, listen to over 20 songs, see the fridge light up when opened, and even learn Spanish. Of course, it’s a reviewer favorite too.

I love reading books to my kids, and board books are perfect for babies and toddlers. How fun it would be to have a personalize board book, filled with family pictures! I love these ones by Pint Size Productions. You can get a 16 page book for $21.95.