Stocking Stuffers for the Taby: That Phase Where They're Squishy but Sassy
Have you heard of the term Taby? I believe it was coined by one of my favorites: @busytoddler and describes anywhere from 1-2/2.5 years of age. It's a really FUN phase in my opinion and one of tremendous brain development. So even if you cannot imagine your 1-year-old playing with some of these, give it a few months and you might be surprised :)
If you're looking for Taby wrapped gifts, check out this post I did + you may also want to peruse my Big Gift guide!
You'll notice a definite theme to this one :) I found it extremely helpful to begin building our art supply stash to keep said Tabies engaged indoors during those long winter months! As much as I wish I was a crafty mom, I'm just not. However, I have found that many of these supplies make a great foundation for any random activity you see online or can think of on the fly to have a few minutes where they're engaged in play! It's been really fun with both of my babies to see all the hot-mess-ness of "art time" transform into purposeful placement and imagination! So don't get frustrated if you expose them to these materials now and it's a Jesus take the wheel moment--we've all been there and just the simple act of offering the activity is what matters!
I also want to mention that because these are general recommendations, you should use your own judgment in regards to the safety of each toy and its age requirements.
Before we begin, I wanted to drop a few things that have been helpful for us in containing the mess with art/sensory play!
1: These art smocks (the site looks sketch but these have been amazing and held up so well).
2: This mat for under chairs/on the floor for messy play. I formerly used a cheap plastic tablecloth from the dollar store, which still 100% works if you need a cheap option but I will be honest, it was flimsy and often moved/got stuck to paint-covered appendages and it was just a mess. We've used this mat for picnics, outdoor concerts on wet grass to prevent soaked bottoms, and for messy play and it truly never disappoints. It wipes clean and is gorgeous, too!
3: This tub--if something is just crazy messy I often throw the Taby in there to go to town and then hose it out later!
4: A tray like this for them to dump or pour anything onto their artwork and it’s contained.
(Gifts in order from top right to bottom left and links are found by clicking on the name of each item).The Movement Mama is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program, as well as the Like to Know It/Reward Style affiliate advertising program. Through these programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy
(Gifts in order from top right to bottom left and links are found by clicking on the name of each item)
Ultra Washable Watercolor Paints
Any Character-Themed Snack you Don't Usually Buy :) Just trust me on this one
Animal Figurines
My Absolute Favorite Cup
Super Safe First Scissors
Sensitive Bath Bombs (that link will get you 15% off)
Nontoxic Cake Batter Toothpaste (use code MOVEMENT10 for 10% off)
Mini Flash Lights (I love to pair these with these books from my book shop)
I also forgot to add it but we’re legit obsessed with these reusable drawing pads! They’re so great for the car or if you don’t want to waste 5000 pieces of paper while they doodle!