Moving out of the baby phase and into the toddler phase can propel us into a fast-paced, ever-changing parade of “must-have” items. Some of these products offer convenience and ease for us as parents, while others support the growth and independence of our little ones.
Sometimes, it helps to hear from other mothers what’s actually worked for them, it can be reassuring and help narrow down the items that are truly worth the purchase.
Here are six things I’ve personally found helpful so far in this toddler stage of my motherhood journey:
1. Stroller
My son originally had a Silver Cross buggy when he was a baby, which worked wonderfully, it had both a car seat attachment and a standard buggy seat. This made transitions from the car smooth, and once he outgrew the car seat, he could easily move to the buggy seat.
However, once he became a toddler, the buggy just felt bulky and heavy for our little day trips. That’s when I decided to transition to the Graco EZLite Lightweight Stroller.
I was a bit skeptical at first, the price was lower than expected, and it looked quite simple in style. But I’ve had this stroller for 5 months now, and I haven’t looked back.
It’s sleek, lightweight, has comfortable handles, and is super convenient for getting around. It was easy to assemble (ready to go in about five minutes), and it folds down quickly with just one hand. The only downside is it didn’t come with a rain cover, so I bought one separately for around £5.99
Because it’s slim and light, it’s also easy to store at home. I’d highly recommend this to any mums looking to transition to a reliable and affordable stroller.
2. Electric Toothbrush
We all know what toddlers are like, they want what we have! I first introduced the DADA-TECH Electric Toddler Toothbrush to my son when he was around 11 months old.
I’d started with a regular toothbrush, but once he saw my electric one, he was obsessed and kept grabbing for it. So, I searched for one made especially for toddlers, and found this one.
He loved it. It made brushing his teeth more exciting and fun. The toothbrush doesn’t rotate (which I like, as I’ve caught my lip on my own one before!) it vibrates instead. It also lights up, which is handy for low lighting.
The base is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in little toddler hands. It also comes with three replacement heads and only requires one AAA battery. It’s cost-effective, grows with your child, and, most importantly, he still loves it.
3. Footstool
This was a more recent purchase. I’d recommend waiting until your toddler is confident with standing, walking, and balancing before getting one.
I wanted to encourage my son’s independence by getting a stool he could use while brushing his teeth. I went for the KEPLIN Heavy Duty Folding Step Stool in grey, 13 inches in height. It’s non-slip, folds out and up easily, and stores nicely in the bathroom. I keep ours next to the sink so he can access it on his own.
Before, I used to help him every time. Then one day he went quiet (never a good sign with toddlers), and when I checked on him, there he was, standing on the stool independently, reaching for his toothbrush!
This little item has really boosted his confidence. He even folds it back up and puts it away when he’s done.
4. Potty
There are so many potties out there that it can be overwhelming to choose one. I decided to go with the Toddler Dinosaur Potty and ordered it quite early, when Brodie was around 11 months.
I just wanted to expose him to it without any pressure. My mum advised me that there’s no harm in introducing it early, even before official potty training age. I wanted one that was fun and exciting for him, and it worked. Within days of it arriving, he was sitting on it regularly.
The potty insert slots in and out easily for cleaning, and there’s even the option of using clear plastic liners for added convenience. It really helped with getting him used to the idea of potty training, and, I’m not embarrassed to admit, it even came in handy for me while we were camping and co-sleeping, when I couldn’t leave him alone in the tent at night!
5. Balance Bike
This might be one of my favourite toddler purchases ever. I ordered the LOL-FUN Balance Bike Toddler Trike for Brodie’s first birthday, and he absolutely loves it.
It grows with your toddler, the seat and handlebars are adjustable, and the wheels are nice and big for stability and smoother turns. I chose the mint green frame with a brown seat and handlebar grips. It honestly looks like a mini version of my own bike!
A fun added feature is the button on the handlebars that plays tunes. Caution: they will definitely get stuck in your head, but he presses it with such joy it’s worth it.
The bike is lightweight, easy to assemble, and still going strong over a year later.
6. Table and Chairs
This was a lovely Christmas gift from my sister, and I absolutely love it! The GYMAX Kids Table and Chair Set comes in various colours, is easy to assemble, and is a sweet addition to our living room.
Brodie loves sitting there independently to eat his dinner, and sometimes I join him! He also uses it for colouring, puzzles, and other crafts. Recently, his dad even introduced the idea of turning it into a fort with blankets and pillows, and that’s become a new obsession.
We received this at the perfect time, right when he was starting to resist being in the highchair all the time. It’s versatile and works well in any room, from living rooms to bedrooms to gardens.
Final Thoughts
All of these items have made daily life a bit easier, more fun, or more independent for my toddler, and in turn, a bit calmer for me! Every toddler is different, but if you’re navigating this stage too, I hope these recommendations give you some inspiration.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission - at no extra cost to you. I only recommended products I've used and genuinely love.
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