Eight Perfect Christmas Gifts for a Toddler

As a consumer, I know the holiday shopping season is stressful. As a mother to an 18 month old, I know that walking in to a toy store is overwhelming even without the holiday pressure. If you are seeking a quality present that steers clear of primary colored plastic, this is the gift list for you. While many of these items can be found in stores, the online resource is also provided. This list of wonderful gifts will keep the toddler in your life thrilled long after Christmas has passed. Each of these items is thoughtful, unique and built to endure.

Toddlers aged 12 months to 3 years will appreciate these gifts.

(1) Oilcloth "Splat-Mat" - This is such a good idea! A big old-fashioned reversable Mexican oilcloth that can be used for crafts and put under a high chair to catch messes. Stylish and utilitarian – a parent’s dream. This was found online at Land of Nod, landofnod.com for about $35.

(2) Activity Cube – For any toddler developing motor skills, these old-fashioned wooden activity cubes are perfect. Similar to the ones found in doctors offices, they can endlessly occupy a toddler. This particular brand is recommended by Parenting Magazine. It can be found online at Sensational Beginnings, sensationalbeginnings.com for just under $80.

(3) Fisher Price Little People Noah's Ark - Perfect size for little hands! All of the little animals can be stored inside. Parents will probably step on one in the middle of the night anyway, but at least clean-up is easy since the toy is self contained. There is multi-colored plastic with this toy, but the quality of it outweighs the general anti-plastic rule. This was found at the Fisher Price online store, fisherprice.com for $20.