Skip Hop Zoo 3-in-1 Ride-On Scooter, available at Amazon, Target, and Buy Buy Baby, from $59.99
This ride-on is useful for three different stages of life and various heights and skill levels. When my son was an early walker, he used the push-and-pull wagon mode to transport his toys around the house. Later we put the tub upside down on the wagon and it became a seat that was the perfect height for him to use his little legs to scoot up and down the hallway. Now he and his older brother take turns using the adjustable handle to create a scooter. This toy has been useful from 1 year to older toddler age — money well spent.
Chicco Sidekick Plus 3-in-1 Hip Seat Carrier, available at Amazon, Target, and Buy Buy Baby, from $93.82
When your baby is a cute bundle of joy under 20 pounds, carrying them around is a breeze. However, if they are like my kids, they do not want to be put down, even when they start getting closer to 30 pounds. That's where this carrier comes into play with a maximum weight of 33 pounds. With the regular carrier style, I could suit my baby up and handle all of my errands and tasks around the house with my baby right on my chest. Now, with my toddler, if he wants to tag along, I use the hip seat to keep him close without hurting my back and shoulders.
Joovy Tricycoo 4.1 Kids Tricycle, available at Amazon and Target, $119.99
The Joovy Tricycoo can be used with babies as young as 10 months and transforms through four different stages of growth with your child up to age 2 1/2 or 44 pounds. For the youngest riders, parents can use the adjustable and removable parent push handle to keep the wheels rolling while the baby is supported with a headrest and padded seat. For older kids, minor adjustments can be made to allow the child to reach the pedals and expands further for longer legs. Various safety measures like a five-point harness and pedal locks can be used to ensure a child can ride safely with ease.
Babymoov Aquani 3-in-1 Play Area SPF 50+, available at Target, $89.99
Babies shouldn't have to stay at home while the rest of the family is enjoying the sun by the beach. Children up to 30 months can have just as much fun in the sun with this play area. It protects babies from UV rays while allowing them to splash around in the water. When your baby gets bigger, the pop-up system can be adapted for a bigger play area that holds up to 20 pounds of water.
Oxford Baby Harper 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, available at Buy Buy Baby and Walmart, from $129
A good convertible bed will take you and your baby throughout their entire childhood. Thanks to the convertible nature of our crib, my sons have gone through various stages of sleep — from newborn sleep to decorating their big kid bed with new sheets. This crib is designed to transition into a toddler bed with a child rail and a full-size bed for older kids. Make sure to get the full-size bed rail kit when you buy the crib to ensure you get the right piece and it's not sold out when you're ready to use it.
Evenflo Sibby Travel System with LiteMax 35 Infant Car Seat, available at Evenflo and Target, $239.99
By spending a little bit extra up front, I've been rewarded with a few of my purchases. A versatile stroller is a must if it fits within your budget. This version was the best option for my family and it's the purchase that kept giving until my boys literally could not fit anymore. What started as the first ride from the hospital became a go-to for trips to the playground, strolls through the mall for shopping, and a ride-along when heading out to dinner. This model allows you to insert the car seat when needed or use it as a regular stroller, and gives you room for a second child to ride standing up when they get tired of walking.
Infantino Grow With Me 4-in-1 High Chair, available at Amazon, Walmart, and Target, from $89
Typical high chairs are only useful for a limited amount of time thanks to their size constraints and the wiggly nature of kids. This chair is adjustable so your child can use it as they grow. It can be used as a regular high chair, then converted to an infant or toddler booster, and finally used as a youth chair. My favorite use is for the booster when we're having quiet time. I like to let my toddler finish a puzzle or color at the table while I cook dinner. I get something done and he gets to feel like a big kid — it's a win-win.
Little Partners Explore and Store Step Stool Ladder, available at Amazon, $159.99
The next time your child asks to help you with something, consider bringing out the Learning Tower. Built with principles of hands-on learning in mind, this counter-height stool lets toddlers 18 months and older be independent and interact with you whether in the kitchen, bathroom, or other high space. The tower includes a folding step for tight spaces, four-sided railings for safety, and adjustable footrests to give kids a leg up and the ability to reach the tops of the counters.
Tiny Love 6-in-1 Here I Grow Play Yard, available at Buy Buy Baby and Target, $229.99
A common staple of every baby registry is the playpen. This one can take your family from newborn to more advanced stages. I have used mine in some unexpected ways, and it has come in handy more than once. Instead of buying a separate changing table, this play yard offers a place to safely change diapers. Nowadays, I use mine for sleepovers at extended family members' houses and it's the perfect spot for a nap. On nice weather days, it can be used outside when you want to get a little fresh air but keep the baby in one spot. As a bassinet or changing table, it can be used with babies up to 15 pounds, and as a playpen, it's suitable for kids up to 30 pounds, 35 inches tall, or until the child can climb out unassisted.
Melissa and Doug Turtle Ball Pit, available at Amazon and Target, $72.99
The Melissa and Doug Ball Pit has been a source of fun for both of my children. I have used it outside in the yard and in the kitchen while I'm cooking. When I am tending to my oldest child, I whip out these balls to keep the baby in one spot. This version allows for children to practice their motor skills and kids of any age can get in on the fun with the colorful balls.
VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker, available at Amazon, $37.99
Most toys have an age limit, but with the Learning Walker, the limit can be stretched. If you don't have a lot of space for toys, consider this walker that can be used by young babies who love to push buttons and for those who are already good walkers but want to be entertained and continue practicing their walking skills. The buttons help develop fine motor skills and kids can engage in role-playing activities while challenging themselves.
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