First Birthday Gift Ideas Expertly Reviewed
Author: Francesca, Founder and CEO, EasyTot
Celebrating a 1-year-old first milestone is a momentous occasion that calls for special recognition. As parents, relatives, or friends, finding the perfect gift that is not only fun but also aids in their developmental journey can be a delightful challenge. In this blog post, we've curated a list of the top 10 enchanting gifts for 1-year-olds, guaranteed to spark joy and foster growth. From educational toys to personalized keepsakes, discover the ultimate presents that will make his first birthday unforgettable.
1. Play Mats
At the top of our list are play mats, which provide much needed cushioning now that the baby is just starting to walk. Favor larger play mats with a thicker padding (about 0.7-1") to cushion the inevitable falls now that babies are just starting to walk. One of our favorite is the Toki Mat which is made out of all natural Dunlop latex and comes with covers that can be easily wiped or machine washed.
2. Musical Instruments for Toddlers
Introduce the world of music to the young maestro with toddler-friendly musical instruments. Mini pianos, drum sets, or xylophones designed for little hands not only entertain but also enhance their auditory senses and rhythm.
3. Personalized Storybooks
Around the age of one, babies begin to show interest in illustrated stories. Books make excellent first birthday gifts because reading together encourages their understanding of storylines and vocabulary development.
However, at this stage, babies may accidentally tear regular pages, so it's best to choose books with padded board pages. These pages are not only durable and resistant to ripping but also thick enough for little hands to easily hold and turn.
Make storytime extra special with personalized storybooks that feature the birthday baby as the main character. These unique gifts foster a love for reading and make them feel like the hero in their very own adventure. Plus, you can rest assured that they will be treasured year after year!
4. Building Blocks and Stacking Toys
Encourage creativity and problem-solving skills with a set of building blocks or stacking toys. Research based on randomized controlled studies has shown that blocks help with language development and to build mathematical and executive skills. Additionally, blocks are such classic toys perfect also for motor development and can keep a child engaged for hours as they learn to stack, build, and balance.
5. Push and Pull Toys
Perfect for the little one who is just starting to walk, push and pull toys help develop balance and coordination. Choose from cute animals on wheels, mini lawnmowers, or wagons that they can load with their favorite toys.
6. Activity Centers
An activity center is a multifaceted toy that offers a variety of activities in one. With different sides to explore, children can enjoy gears, bead mazes, shape sorters, and more, promoting cognitive development and fine motor skills. The hi-lo activity table by Wonder and Wise is one of our best sellers and won't disappoint!
It's important to note that while some manufacturers recommend these activity centers for children as young as 1 year old, others suggest them for kids 18 months and older. Because of this, supervision may be required when using this type of toy.
7. Soft Play Equipment
Create a safe play area in your home with soft play equipment. Soft climbers, ball pits, or foam blocks encourage active play and are ideal for indoor environments, making them a perfect gift for energetic toddlers.
8. Pikler Triangle
A 1-year-old is the perfect age to get started wit the Pikler triangle. This is the perfect toy to satisfy babies' natural draw towards climbing and exploring and will get lots of use for years. The largest Pikler triangles can be used for toddlers up to 6 years old. Pick one that's foldable and height adjustable so that it can be used both now and for years to come, like the Goodevas Pikler.
9. Play Tent
One-year-olds adore play tents for their cozy, secure feel, fostering imaginative exploration. These little hideaways spark curiosity and engagement, providing a perfect space for early adventures.
10. Memory Keepsakes
Last but not least, consider giving a memory keepsake, such as a handprint or footprint kit. These sentimental gifts capture the moment in time and are cherished by parents and children alike.
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