What to Expect in the First Year of Your Child

Discover milestones, tips, and advice for your little one's first year.

Empower Your Child's First Ride

Our Rank:
Schwinn Elm and Koen Bike or Balance Bike is the perfect companion for your little one's journey to confidence and independence. Designed for kids ages 2-13, these bikes foster essential skills like balance, coordination, and motor skills while providing an exhilarating way to explore the outdoors. With adjustable seating and an ergonomic design, children can comfortably grow into their new riding adventures, making each outing not just fun but a vital part of their development. It's not just about learning to ride; it's about gaining the confidence to take on new challenges! 2-13 years
Develops skills:
balance, coordination, motor skills, confidence, independence, outdoor exploration, problem solving
Why we love it:
Empower Your Child's First Ride features adjustable seating, giving kids the perfect fit as they confidently navigate their biking adventures and embrace the great outdoors.

My Buddy: Your Child's New Best Friend

Our Rank:
The Loyal Subjects My Buddy Classic 18-inch Doll is the ultimate companion for your little one! This charming plush buddy encourages imaginative play, nurturing skills, and emotional development as kids engage in storytelling and role-playing adventures. With its soft fabric exterior, durable design, and playful features—including the iconic theme song—My Buddy is perfect for cuddles and creative exploration. Parents will love how this doll can accompany their children on everything from tree-climbing escapades to quiet reading moments! 3+ years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, nurturing skills, emotional development, storytelling, role-playing, creative exploration
Why we love it:
My Buddy features a soft fabric exterior that makes it perfect for cuddles and encourages emotional connections, turning every adventure into a storytelling treasure.

Lily Llama: Your Child's Cozy Companion

Our Rank:
Lily Llama is an exceptionally soft toy friend who will quickly become your little one's favorite companion. Measuring 10 inches, this cuddly llama features fluffy fabric that invites hugs and imaginative play, fostering emotional development and comfort. With her adorable stitched eyes and sweet smile, she encourages nurturing behavior in children. Pair her with the coordinating character blanket or rattle from the LilyLlama collection for a delightful nursery gift that promotes sensory exploration and creativity! 0-3 years
Develops skills:
emotional development, imaginative play, nurturing behavior, sensory exploration, comfort, creativity
Why we love it:
Lily Llama's exceptionally soft fabric invites hugs and imaginative play, making her the perfect companion for nurturing emotional connections and encouraging creative adventures.

Becky Bunny: Your Child's New Best Friend

Our Rank:
Becky Bunny is the perfect plush companion for your little one, fostering imagination and creativity through playful adventures! With her charming peach-colored tutu and cozy, snuggly body, Becky not only sparks joy during playtime but also encourages emotional development and nurturing skills. As a soft and washable stuffed animal, she's designed for safe, endless cuddles and cozy bedtimes, enhancing comfort and security. Whether it's a magical tea party or a sweet cuddle at night, Becky Bunny is here to grow with your child. 0+ months
Develops skills:
emotional development, nurturing skills, imaginative play, fine motor skills, social interaction
Why we love it:
Becky Bunny, with her cozy, snuggly body, encourages sweet bedtime rituals and sparks imaginative adventures that help little ones express their feelings and creativity.

Sully Cuteeze: Your Child's Cuddly Companion

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Disney Baby Monsters Inc. Sully Cuteeze Plush Stuffed Animal is not just a charming plushie; it’s your child’s perfect first friend! With its super soft texture and adorable embroidered features, this huggable companion encourages imaginative play and emotional development. As your little ones carry Sully around, they'll nurture their sense of security and comfort while engaging in storytelling and creative adventures. From the classroom to naptime, this modern classic will create lasting memories and connections between generations. 0-3 years
Develops skills:
emotional development, imaginative play, storytelling, social interaction, comfort seeking
Why we love it:
Sully Cuteeze, with its super soft texture, is the ultimate cuddly companion that helps children nurture emotional connections while embarking on creative adventures.

Elvin Elephant: Your Child's Cuddly Companion

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Ebba Aurora® Snuggly Cuddlers Luvster™ Elvin Elephant Baby Stuffed Animal is more than just a plush toy; it’s a comforting companion designed to inspire security and restful sleep for your little ones. With its extra softness and adorable design, this elephant not only brings joy but also fosters emotional development in babies and toddlers as they bond with their new friend. Ideal for creating a peaceful sleep environment, Elvin helps children learn to self-soothe and feel safe at night, making it a perfect addition to their bedtime routine. Plus, its high-quality, safe materials mean parents can feel confident knowing it’s suitable for children of all ages. All ages
Develops skills:
emotional development, self-soothing, comfort, imaginative play, bonding
Why we love it:
Elvin Elephant's extra softness ensures a cozy companion for bedtime, helping little ones feel secure and promoting restful sleep amidst their nighttime adventures.

Thready Bear: Your Child's Interactive Friend

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Thready Bear is more than just a plush toy; he’s a delightful companion filled with personality and magic. Perfect for children aged 3 and up, Thready Bear fosters emotional intelligence as kids learn to identify and express feelings through his expressive button eyes, enhancing empathy and communication skills while providing endless interactive fun. With over 70 expressions and the ability to respond to your child’s voice and actions, he becomes a dynamic tool for imaginative play and social development. 3+ years
Develops skills:
emotional intelligence, empathy, communication skills, imaginative play, social development
Why we love it:
Thready Bear, with over 70 expressions and voice responsiveness, turns emotional understanding into a playful adventure that builds connection and creativity in our little ones.

Putty Nursery Frog: Your Child's Cuddly Companion

Our Rank:
Mary Meyer Putty Nursery Stuffed Animal Soft Toy is the perfect cuddly companion for your little one! With its super soft, mint green and creamy white fabrics, this 11-inch frog invites tiny hands to explore and engage. Our froggy friend not only provides comfort but can also spark imaginative play, helping develop social and emotional skills as children create stories with their plush pals. Plus, the machine-washable feature means it's ready for any adventure, ensuring safety and durability for countless snuggles along the way. 0-3 years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, social skills, emotional development, fine motor skills, sensory exploration
Why we love it:
Putty Nursery Frog features super soft mint green and creamy white fabrics, making it the perfect cuddle buddy while nurturing creative storytelling and emotional connections.

Slumbers Teddy Bear: Your Child's Cuddly Companion

Our Rank:
Slumbers Teddy Bear is the perfect cuddly companion for your little one! At 17 inches tall, this award-winning plush toy encourages imaginative play and emotional development while providing the softest hugs imaginable. The tactile experience of its huggable fur and big paw pads fosters sensory exploration, making it ideal for children aged 1 and up. Plus, it’s easy to clean, allowing parents to focus on the fun moments that come with creating cherished memories together! 1+ years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, emotional development, sensory exploration, tactile skills, empathy
Why we love it:
Slumbers Teddy Bear, at 17 inches tall, offers the softest hugs imaginable while encouraging kids to explore their feelings and creativity through cuddly companionship.

Rocket Your Child's Learning Journey!

Our Rank:
The Learning Journey: Learn with Me – Rocket is an exciting adventure into the cosmos for our little explorers! This engaging toy invites children to discover the wonders of space while honing vital skills like hand-eye coordination and problem-solving. By matching shapes and listening to instructions, kids are not just having fun; they’re building a solid foundation for cognitive development. As parents and educators, we know how rewarding it is to see our kids learn while they play, and this rocket is the perfect launchpad for their imagination and growth. 2-5 years
Develops skills:
hand-eye coordination, problem solving, cognitive development, shape recognition, imaginative play
Why we love it:
Rocket Your Child's Learning Journey! is a fun-filled adventure that marries shape matching with cosmic exploration, making learning a blast while fueling young imaginations.

Muttsy: Your Child's Cuddle Companion

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The GUND Muttsy Dog Plush is more than just an adorable 14” lounging puppy; it’s a gateway to imaginative play and emotional development for children ages 1 and up. With its soft texture and comforting presence, Muttsy helps little ones develop empathy, social skills, and attachment through nurturing play. Parents will appreciate how this beloved plush can soothe and support their child's emotional growth, making it an ideal companion for every adventure. 1+ years
Develops skills:
empathy, social skills, emotional development, imaginative play, nurturing
Why we love it:
Muttsy: Your Child's Cuddle Companion is a soft 14” plush puppy that not only soothes but also supports emotional growth through nurturing and imaginative play adventures.

Wendy the Frog: Your Child's Plush MVP!

Our Rank:
Squishmallows Original 14-Inch Wendy Green Frog with Mushroom Embroidery is more than just a cuddly plush; it's a delightful companion that encourages imaginative play and emotional development! With her friendly personality and her winning streak as a basketball MVP, Wendy helps children learn about teamwork, resilience, and the joy of play. The soft, quality materials make her perfect for snuggles while fostering a sense of security, which is essential for younger ones. Plus, with a variety of Squishmallows to collect, the joy of expanding their ‘Squad’ becomes a fun adventure in learning and friendship! 3+ years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, emotional development, teamwork, resilience, fine motor skills
Why we love it:
Wendy the Frog is a 14-inch plush that not only offers snuggles but also teaches kids about teamwork and the joy of play through her basketball MVP charm.

Ashford Bear: Your Child's Cozy Companion

Our Rank:
The Aurora® Snuggly Ashford Bear™ Stuffed Animal is the ultimate comforting companion for children of all ages. Beyond being adorable and soft, this 11-inch plush friend encourages imaginative play, emotional development, and storytelling, making it a fantastic tool for nurturing creativity and empathy. Parents and educators alike will appreciate its durability, safety features, and the heartfelt connection it fosters between children and their favorite plush buddy. All ages
Develops skills:
imaginative play, emotional development, storytelling, empathy, creativity
Why we love it:
Ashford Bear, a cozy 11-inch plush companion, inspires storytelling adventures and nurtures emotional connections, making it a cherished friend for little hearts.

Parker Puppy: Your Child's Softest Friend

Our Rank:
The Mary Meyer Marshmallow Zoo Parker Puppy is a delightful companion that's perfect for children who crave comfort and cuddles. With its plush textures and charming features, this soft toy not only provides a sense of security but also enhances emotional development through imaginative play. As kids snuggle with Parker, they're encouraged to express their feelings and engage in storytelling, helping to foster creativity and social skills. Parents will appreciate the ease of cleaning this lovable friend, knowing that quality and safety are paramount in its design. 0-5 years
Develops skills:
emotional development, imaginative play, storytelling, social skills, creative expression, comfort, empathy
Why we love it:
Parker Puppy is a plush companion that encourages expressive storytelling, making every cuddle a chance for creativity and emotional growth.

Furby Coral: Your Child's Interactive Friend

Our Rank:
Furby Coral is the perfect companion for kids aged 6 and up, sparking creativity and communication in a fun, engaging way. As parents and educators, we know the importance of interactive play; Furby encourages kids to express themselves through speech and dance, enhancing both language skills and social-emotional development. With over 600 responses, children will explore conversation and storytelling while mastering command sequences. Plus, the delightful lights and dance moves are a bonus that keeps them entertained and active! 6+ years
Develops skills:
language skills, social-emotional development, creativity, conversation, storytelling, sequencing, movement
Why we love it:
Furby Coral features over 600 responses, encouraging kids to express themselves through speech and dance while making communication feel like an exciting game.

Soft Spots Piggy: Your Child’s New Companion

Our Rank:
World's Softest Plush Spots Piggy is the perfect cuddly companion for children and adults alike! This snuggly piggy plush isn't just an adorable toy; it also encourages emotional development through comfort and imaginative play. With its ultra-soft material, it invites thousands of hugs, fostering a sense of security and warmth for our little ones. As parents, we know the value of creating cherished memories, and Spots Piggy is ready to be part of those magical moments for everyone in the family. All ages
Develops skills:
emotional development, imaginative play, comfort, social skills, security
Why we love it:
Soft Spots Piggy is made from ultra-soft material, inviting countless hugs and fostering a sense of security that helps children express and understand their emotions.

Kai Teddy Bear: Your Child's Cuddly Companion

Our Rank:
Kai Teddy Bear is more than just a plush toy; it's a cozy companion that nurtures emotional development in children aged one and up. With its super-soft plush fabric and delightful design, Kai encourages tactile exploration and imaginative play, offering a comforting presence during those early years of self-discovery. Plus, the innovative Lost & Found feature gives parents peace of mind, knowing they can easily track and replace their child's beloved friend if it goes missing. This charming bear is perfect for enhancing young learners' emotional intelligence and social skills, making it a must-have for every playroom! 1+ years
Develops skills:
emotional intelligence, imaginative play, tactile exploration, social skills, self-discovery
Why we love it:
Kai Teddy Bear features super-soft plush fabric that provides comforting presence, making it a perfect companion for nurturing emotional growth during those important early years.

Fuzzy Teddy Bear: Your Child's Adventure Buddy

Our Rank:
GUND Fuzzy Teddy Bear is more than just a cuddly companion; he's a brave, adventurous buddy ready to inspire imagination and creativity in our little ones! Measuring 13.5” in a delightful chocolate brown, Fuzzy encourages our children to embark on imaginative journeys, fostering storytelling skills and emotional development through play. His soft and huggable nature makes him perfect for those comforting moments while also promoting sensory exploration as kids engage with different textures. As parents and educators, we cherish toys that balance both fun and growth, and Fuzzy delivers on all fronts, making him an ideal gift for birthdays, holidays, or just because! 1 and up
Develops skills:
imagination, storytelling, emotional development, sensory exploration, fine motor skills
Why we love it:
Fuzzy Teddy Bear is a soft, 13.5-inch friend that encourages imaginative play and storytelling, making comfort and creativity cozy companions for our little ones.

Blush Putty Sloth: Your Child's Cozy Companion

Our Rank:
Mary Meyer Blush Putty Baby Stuffed Animal Soft Toy, Sloth, 10-Inches is not just an incredibly soft cuddle buddy; it's a gateway to nurturing essential developmental skills in our little ones. With its gentle texture and inviting pink hue, this sloth encourages sensory exploration as children touch and squeeze its delightfully plush fabric. As they engage in imaginative play, kids can develop empathy and communication skills by creating their own stories around their adorable sloth friend. Plus, for busy parents like us, it's machine washable—allowing for endless adventures without the worry of mess! 0-3 years
Develops skills:
sensory exploration, empathy, communication skills, imaginative play, fine motor skills
Why we love it:
Blush Putty Sloth is a 10-inch soft toy that invites children to squeeze and cuddle while developing their storytelling skills and nurturing their caring side.

Tenderheart Bear: Your Child's Huggable Friend

Our Rank:
Tenderheart Bear is more than just an adorable 18-inch plush toy; he's a trusted companion who helps kids explore their emotions and learn the importance of empathy. With his enchanting glitter belly badge and soft, huggable material, he's perfect for those big bear hugs that encourage emotional connection and comfort. As parents and educators, we love that Tenderheart Bear inspires children to express their feelings and show kindness to others—crucial skills that aid in social development. Plus, collecting the entire Rainbow assortment of Care Bears makes this journey of love and sharing even more exciting! 4+ years
Develops skills:
emotional intelligence, empathy, social skills, comfort, imaginative play
Why we love it:
Tenderheart Bear, a soft, huggable plush toy, helps kids express their feelings and learn empathy—turning emotional growth into a cuddly adventure!

Maggie Lamb: Your Child's Soft Adventure Buddy

Our Rank:
Maggie Lamb is the cuddly companion every child needs! This exceptionally soft stuffed animal not only provides comfort but also encourages imaginative play, helping little ones explore their creativity and emotional development. With its huggable design and adorable features, Maggie is perfect for snuggling during storytime or rest time, making it an ideal resource for developing a child's sense of security. Plus, parents will appreciate the easy care instructions—simply wash in cold water on a gentle cycle and air dry, so Maggie can join in countless adventures while staying clean and fresh! 0-3 years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, emotional development, creative expression, social skills, problem solving, comfort
Why we love it:
Maggie Lamb is exceptionally soft, making it the huggable companion that inspires imaginative play and offers a sense of security during every adventure.

Jod Na Nawood: Your Child's Star Wars Adventure

Our Rank:
Jod Na Nawood is not just a collectible action figure; it's a doorway to imaginative play and storytelling for our little ones! Inspired by the exciting world of Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, this 3.75-inch figure encourages creativity as children invent their own stories, enhancing their narrative skills and critical thinking. With its premium design and character-inspired accessories, this figure allows for active and engaging play, making it a wonderful addition to any child's toy collection. Plus, parents can feel good knowing this collectible is perfect for ages 4 and up, fostering both playtime joy and early developmental skills! 4+ years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, storytelling, narrative skills, critical thinking, fine motor skills, creative thinking
Why we love it:
Jod Na Nawood is a 3.75-inch figure that opens up a galaxy of storytelling possibilities, helping kids flex their imagination while playing in a universe far, far away.

Pewi Elite Blue: Your Child's Fun Learning Partner

Our Rank:
YBIKE USA Pewi Elite Blue is the perfect blend of fun and learning for our little ones! Designed as a hybrid developmental toy, it not only promotes walking and steering but also encourages vital motor skills and balance as children grow from 9 months to 3 years. With its lightweight aluminum frame and innovative safety features, we can feel confident in letting our toddlers explore their newfound mobility both indoors and outdoors. Watching our kids gain strength and confidence while zooming around in this stylish ride is a joy that every parent will cherish! 9 months - 3 years
Develops skills:
motor skills, balance, coordination, spatial awareness, confidence, early mobility
Why we love it:
Pewi Elite Blue features a lightweight aluminum frame that allows our toddlers to confidently zoom around, strengthening their balance and motor skills while having a blast.

Patches the Beagle: Your Child's Interactive Puppy

Our Rank:
Little Live Pets My Really Real Puppy Patches The Beagle is the perfect companion for nurturing play! This interactive and lifelike toy dog encourages empathy, responsibility, and imaginative play, making it a fantastic educational tool for our little ones aged 5 and up. With over 60 sounds and realistic reactions, Patches helps children develop social skills as they engage in caring and creative scenarios. Plus, the soft, snuggly design wrapped in deluxe fur offers comfort during cuddle time, fostering both emotional and sensory development. 5+ years
Develops skills:
empathy, responsibility, imaginative play, social skills, emotional development
Why we love it:
Patches the Beagle features over 60 sounds and realistic reactions, transforming playtime into a nurturing adventure that helps kids develop valuable social skills.

Curious George Plush: Your Child's Cuddly Companion

Our Rank:
KIDS PREFERRED Curious George Monkey Stuffed Animal Plush Toys brings home the beloved curious monkey who inspires a world of imagination and adventure! As educators and parents, we know how essential it is for children to have comforting friends that encourage emotional development. This super soft and adorable plush buddy not only provides comfort during playtime but also promotes social skills through imaginative role play. Whether on road trips or in the cozy corners of their bedroom, Curious George is always ready to be the huggable friend they need! 0-5 years
Develops skills:
emotional development, social skills, imaginative play, comfort, creativity, role play
Why we love it:
Curious George Plush is a super soft and adorable cuddly companion that inspires imaginative adventures, helping children explore emotions and forge social connections in their playful world.

Unleash Your Child's Baseball Skills!

Our Rank:
Franklin Sports Baseball Pitching Machine is a game-changer for any young baseball enthusiast. As fellow parents, we know how vital it is to nurture our kids' love for sports while developing their hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and teamwork skills. This adjustable pitching machine not only enhances their batting and fielding techniques, but it also builds confidence on the field! Loaded with 6 durable baseballs and the ability to adjust angles for various pitches, this toy brings endless hours of practice and joy—right in your backyard! 5-10 years
Develops skills:
hand-eye coordination, reflex development, teamwork, sport strategy, confidence building
Why we love it:
Unleash Your Child's Baseball Skills! features an adjustable pitching machine that helps young athletes practice their batting while boosting their confidence right in your backyard.

Buzz Lightyear: Your Child's Soft Space Ranger

Our Rank:
Disney Baby Toy Story Large 15” Stuffed Animal Plush Buzz is the perfect companion for your little one's adventures in imagination and comfort. This beautifully designed plush buddy not only brings the beloved character of Buzz Lightyear to life but also serves as a comforting friend during naps or long travels. Our kids learn so much through play, and having a huggable buddy encourages emotional development and imaginative storytelling. As parents, we appreciate how this ultra-soft toy fosters nurturing skills and becomes a cherished keepsake that can be passed down through generations. 0-5 years
Develops skills:
emotional development, imaginative storytelling, nurturing skills, comfort seeking, pretend play
Why we love it:
Buzz Lightyear: Your Child's Soft Space Ranger is a beautifully designed 15” plush buddy that inspires imaginative adventures while providing comfort during naptime and travel.

Delta Children FunZone Swing Set Adventure

Our Rank:
Delta Children FunZone Outdoor Metal 3-Piece Swing Set is the ultimate playground experience right in your backyard! With two swings and a trapeze bar, this sturdy set invites up to three kids to soar into imaginative play while boosting their gross and fine motor skills. We love that it encourages balance and muscle growth, all while allowing our little ones to unwind outdoors—a perfect blend of fun and developmental learning! Plus, the weather-resistant design means it's built to last through countless outdoor adventures. 3-8 years
Develops skills:
gross motor skills, fine motor skills, balance, imaginative play, social skills
Why we love it:
Delta Children FunZone Swing Set Adventure features two swings and a trapeze bar, offering our kids an exciting way to build strength and creativity while basking in the great outdoors.

Spark Creativity with the Delta Children Set

Our Rank:
Delta Children Kids Table and Chair Set with Storage is the perfect addition to any playroom or homeschool environment. This delightful set inspires creativity and collaboration, encouraging little ones to express themselves through arts and crafts, storytelling, and imaginative play. With its colorful Toy Story graphics, your child will feel like they're part of their favorite adventure while developing fine motor skills and enhancing their cognitive abilities. It’s not just a playset; it’s a space for learning, sharing, and endless fun! 3-6 years
Develops skills:
creative expression, fine motor skills, cognitive development, collaboration, imaginative play, problem solving
Why we love it:
Spark Creativity with the Delta Children Set includes colorful Toy Story graphics, transforming any playroom into a vibrant space for creativity and collaboration, making learning an adventure.

JT Bigfoot: Your Child's Soft Companion

Our Rank:
The Squishmallows Original 5-Inch JT Dark Teal Bigfoot is not just an adorable plush toy; it’s a unique friend that encourages imaginative play and social-emotional development. With his charming personality and love for grocery store adventures, JT inspires storytelling and emotional connection, making him a perfect companion for kids. Parents will appreciate how this super soft plush helps in teaching essential skills like empathy, sharing, and creativity—all wrapped up in a cozy hug. 3+ years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, social-emotional development, empathy, creativity, sharing
Why we love it:
JT Bigfoot is a delightful 5-inch plush that inspires storytelling and emotional connections, making it a cozy companion for kids' imaginative adventures.