No matter how romantic we once were, parenthood makes many of us think more about our kids on Valentine’s Day than our partners. Sure, we may want to get or give flowers, chocolates, and nice dinners out to our significant others, but let’s face it: It’s a lot more fun to come up with Valentine’s Day gifts for kids than it is for adults. And it’s definitely less tricky.

RELATED: The Best Scooters for Kids of All Ages and Skills

Still, you may be stuck on ideas for your kids’ V-day gifts this year—especially if you just spent all your gift-giving creativity on the holidays. Some of us also have winter birthdays to contend with, making these early months a goldmine for the kids and a materialistic trap for their parents. But that’s no excuse to deprive them.

The truth is, you can always take the easy way out and buy heart-shaped candies for your kids. They’ll love it. But if you’re hoping to make this holiday a little more meaningful, we get that too. It’s a time to celebrate love, after all, and those little people have made your heart grow a million sizes since they came into this world. That’s why we came up with this list of Valentine’s gift ideas for kids that includes cuddly toys,  kits that inspire creativity, and presents that reflect your child’s specific interests, all to show your love in ways that make sense for your family. We also made sure none of these gifts is very expensive, because yeah, our accounts are still reeling from the holidays too.

Below, you’ll find the best Valentine’s Day gifts for kids of all ages, guaranteed to make your little sweethearts feel special. And don’t forget to get something for yourself while you’re at it!

The post 30 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Kids Who Love to Cuddle, Create, Read, and Laugh appeared first on Parenting.

Parents looking to potty-train their kid have clear reasons for turning to the three-day potty-training method: It’s fast and decisive. But before you try it at home, there’s one warning 3 Day Potty Training author Lora Jensen has for everyone.

“You will seriously be spending all waking hours with your child for three days,” Jensen says.

RELATED: The Best Hiking Backpack Carriers for Babies, Toddlers, and Their Grownups

How do you know when it’s time to potty train? Your kid may be showing signs they’re ready when they tug at dirty diapers, hide to poop, express interest in you using the toilet, and have enough verbal skills to let you know when they need to go. This time frame is different for every kid, but if you suspect your child is ready to take on potty training and you’re interested in the three-day potty training method, read on.

3-Day Potty-Training Supplies

• Potty-Training Book for Adults: 3 Day Potty Training 
• Potty-Training Book for Kids: P Is for Potty!
• Potty-Training Seat: Summer Infant My-Size Potty
• Baby Wipes: Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes
• Sippy Cups: Munchkin Any Angle Click Lock Weighted Straw Trainer Cup
• Juice Boxes: Honest Kids Organic Juice Boxes in Assorted Flavors
• Underwear: Cat & Jack Toddler Boys' Dino Print Briefs or Girls' Mermaid Print Briefs
• Bath Mat: Nestwell Performance Bath Rug
• Stickers: The Ultimate Disney Sticker Book
• Waterproof Mattress Cover: Sealy Cozy Dreams Waterproof Fitted Crib Mattress

Prepare for Potty Training

“The parent(s) needs to know that it will take work and you have to dedicate a full three days to the child,” Jensen says. “This means giving up ‘me’ time. You won’t be cooking, cleaning or visiting with friends—or keeping up with the Kardashians.”

And when you’re figuring out how to potty train, she says, you must plan ahead: “Have your shopping done and meals prepared ahead of time. Do the laundry and clean the house prior to starting. Be ready to play games, color, watch cartoons and just enjoy some bonding time with your child.”

It’s not a bad idea to arrange playdates out of the home for older kids, too. Make this three-day potty-training mission about your soon-to-be potty pro.

Pick up a few T-shirts that will cover your kid’s private area. Why? Your child will be going commando for three days. The theory is that if they know the diaper isn’t there to catch the pee or poop, it should click that they need to get their bare butt to a potty.

“We do not put pants on the child during the training process because we want to be able to see when they have an accident,” she says.

Stock up on drinks, too, because you’re going to encourage your kid to drink more than usual. This will obviously cause your kid to have to pee, and that’s what you want when potty training as they learn to recognize that feeling.

Hit up the local dollar store for potty- training incentives—stickers, crayons, coloring books and action heroes. Stay strong and remember prizes are for peeing in the toilet, not on the rug or all over themselves.

Speaking of Accidents…

“Accidents will happen; that is part of training. Children learn from having those accidents,” says Jensen of potty training girls and boys. “The 3-Day Potty Training Method is against punishments during training. You will clean up the accident and simply encourage them to make it to the toilet next time. Praise goes a long way.”

Gentle Reminders Work

If your kid doesn’t go after sucking down a juice box, remind them to go. And when they say “no”—and they will!—tell them just to try. Remember, this is potty training, not game day. You’re the coach.

How to Potty-Train Your Child in Three Days:

• When your child wakes up in the morning, take off their soggy diaper and bid it farewell. Have your kid throw the diaper out and say “bye-bye.”
• Dress them in an oversized T-shirt and/or big kid underwear and explain there is no diaper to catch the pee-pee or poop, so they have to put it in the potty.
• Give your kid breakfast and an extra drink. Afterwards, lead your little one to the potty. It should be a successful trip after all those liquids.
• Go on with the day, but remember, no leaving the house during the three-day potty training. Play, read, color, and watch cartoons.
• Have a sippy cup of water in your kid’s reach at all times. Just like crate-training a puppy, walk your child to the potty every 15 minutes, all day long, for three days.
• Cut off all liquids and snacks after dinner while potty training.
• Complete one final potty mission before bed.
• Wake your kid up halfway through the night to pee. (Yes, set an alarm.)
• Repeat for the next two days.
• Don’t get upset about potty-training accidents. They’re not a big deal. Don’t react.

The post 3-Day Potty-Training Method: Everything You Need to Prepare Your Kid to Ditch the Diapers appeared first on Parenting.

With Delta, Omicron, and whatever other letters of the COVID-19 Greek alphabet are coming next, it looks like we’ll be shopping for kids’ face masks for many months ahead. And since the new variants are reported to be more contagious than O.G. coronavirus, many parents are making the switch from cloth masks to extra protective three-, four-, and five-layer non-woven disposable masks, including KN95s for kids.

RELATED: My Kid Is Wearing KF94 Masks to School This Year, and Here’s Why

By now, your kids have probably gotten used to wearing their own face coverings and seeing them on everyone around them. But that doesn’t mean they’ll settle for any old face mask. This can be an opportunity for them to accessorize with fun prints and their favorite colors. And since we’ve been at this for a while, mask makers have figured out how to make their products fit comfortably, snugly, and effectively on kids’ faces. There are also a bunch of face mask accessories, like lanyards, that can make wearing face coverings more fun (and sanitary) for your younger family members.

Please note that the CDC does not recommend face masks or cloth coverings on children under the age of 2 and suggests cleaning your mask in the washing machine frequently.

We know these times are challenging, and getting your kids to cover their faces is no easy task. To make it a little easier for you, we rounded up some of the most kid-friendly face masks and coverings you can shop online.

Parenting‘s 10 Favorite Face Masks for Kids and Toddlers

• Dr. Puri New Micro-Dust Protection KF94 Mask for Kids, amazon.com
• Evolvetogether KN95 Kids’ Masks, evolvetogether.com
• Maskc KN95 Kids’ Masks, shopmaskc.com
• WellBefore KN95 Kids’ Masks, wellbefore.com
• Vida Kids’ KF94 Masks, shopvida.com
• Powecom KN95-SM for Children, bonafidemasks.com
• Armbrust USA Child-Size Surgical Face Masks, armbrustusa.com
• Enro Solid Tech Face Mask, enro.com
• Maskc Kids Dinosaur Disposable Face Masks, shopmaskc.com
• Vida 100% Cotton Kids Protective Mask, shopvida.com

A lot of these have built-in features to make the face masks fit small faces better and more comfortably, like nose wires and ear loop adjusters, making them even more appealing for our tiny peers.

You can also shop the best kids disposable face masks for affordable bundles starting at just 30 cents per mask.

The post The Best Kids’ Face Masks to Protect Against Omicron and Other Variants appeared first on Parenting.

Bicycles and skateboards are great, but some kids just want the ease and control that you can only get with a scooter. They can stay upright, hold on tight, and hop on and off without needing too much instruction. Plus, scooters are just slow enough for parents to catch up with them when it’s time to cross the street. For lots of kids, scooters are their number one mode of transport and they can be a great way for kids to get some much-needed outdoor time and physical exercise.

RELATED: The Best Luggage for Kids, Whether They’re Jetsetters or Traveling for the First Time

But because there are so many scooters on the market, it can be a bit confusing for parents to figure out which one to buy for their child. Of course, it has to be safe and durable, but it should be intuitive and easy to figure out how to ride. Younger kids are best suited for three-wheel scooters which stand on their own, while older kids may prefer a two-wheel or trick scooter. But what about that electric scooter that your child wants for their birthday? Let’s break down the different types of scooters that are currently on the market.

Best Overall: Micro Maxi Kick Scooter With T-Bar

Best Two-Wheel Scooter: Razor A3 Scooter
Best Three-Wheel Scooter: Micro Mini

Best for Toddlers: Micro Mini 3-in-1

Best for Big Kids: Micro Sprite

Best for Teens/Tweens: LaScoota The Metro

Best Pro Scooter: Razor A6

Best Caster Scooter: Razor PowerWing

Best Big Wheel: Halo Rise Above Supreme Big Wheel Scooter

Best for Tricks: Fuzion X-3 Pro Scooter

Best Electric: Segway Ninebot eKickScooter Zing C10

Types of Kids’ Scooters

• Three-Wheel Scooters: With a single wheel in the back and two wheels in the front, this scooter is the most stable and offers the most in the way of balance help. They don’t go as fast as other scooter types, but because they are meant for toddlers and younger kids, that is quite alright.
• Two-Wheel Scooters: With one wheel in the front and one in the back, this scooter is better suited for older kids who have learned to balance on their own. They go faster than three-wheel scooters, but not all are suitable for tricks.
• Electric Scooter: These scooters are powered by a rechargeable battery or small motor. They are a bit on the heavier side. While they are fun and your kids will be begging for them, they usually go quite fast, some over 10 mph.
• Pro Scooter: These scooters have wider handlebars that are made for gripping while doing tricks or stunts. They are higher-quality scooters because they are meant to take a beating.

Whether you’re looking for a fun way to get your toddler from place to place, you want to encourage your kid to be a bit more active, or your tween or teen is ready for some half-pipes, there is a set of wheels that’s ideal for your family. Here are the best kids’ scooters out there.

The post The Best Scooters for Kids of All Ages and Skills appeared first on Parenting.

When it comes time to leave the comfort of your own home with a baby,  you’re going to want—dare we say, need—a bag that can hold a lot of essentials. While they’re called diaper bags, the reality is that the bags parents and caregivers use end up holding a whole lot more than just diapers. You may be loading up your bag with food, formula, bottles, breast milk, breast-pumping supplies, changes of clothes, blankets, toys, pacifiers, wipes, and a million other things that you never knew you needed. The good news is, there are affordable diaper bags out there that carry it all while looking pretty darn good.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

Sure, you could shove all of that into a plastic bag, but good luck finding that favorite pacifier when your precious one is wailing in the middle of the doctor’s office. Diaper bags are a must-have because they usually have a pocket for everything and are the easiest way to keep organized.

Best Stylish Diaper Bags Under $100

• Best Under $20: Baby Boom Duffel Diaper Bag
• Best Convertible: Skip Hop Iconic Duo Signature Tote
• Best Fanny Pack: Kibou Deliberately Minimal Diaper Bag
• Best Backpack: Skip Hop Forma Backpack Diaper Bag
• Best for Air Travel: Mancro Large Capacity Waterproof Backpack Diaper Bag
• Best Crossbody: Anjie + Ash Parent Crossbody Diaper Bag
• Roomiest: Parker Baby Diaper Backpack
• Best Easy-Access: Skip Hop Mainframe Wide Open Diaper Backpack
• Best Tote: Fisher-Price Quilted Diaper Bag Tote
• Most Stylish: Freshly Picked Convertible Mini Classic Diaper Bag Backpack
• Best Tech-Friendly: Mogix Smart Baby Diaper Bag with Portable Phone Charger
• Best Diaper and Pumping Bag: Mommore Breast Pump Bag and Diaper Tote
• Best for Dads: Sager Creek Military-Style Diaper Bag
• Best Cooler Bag: Fisher-Price Kaden Super Cooler Insulated Backpack Diaper Bag

Types of Diaper Bags  

You’re going to use this bag a lot. So you’re going to want one that fits your taste and needs. And just like purses or pocket books, there are many different styles of diaper bags. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular styles.

• • • • Tote

A large, open diaper bag, usually with two handles and an open top

• • • • Backpack

A diaper bag with shoulder straps to allow it to be carried on one’s back

• • • • Cross-body

A diaper bag designed to be worn diagonally on one side of the body via a long strap

• • • • Satchel

A diaper bag, often with a strap, soft sides and a flap-top closure

• • • • Designer

A diaper bags created with high-end textiles by famous design houses that resemble their iconic handbags

• • • • Tactical

A military-inspired diaper bag with lots of outer pockets, popular with men

Many diaper bags are convertible and can transform from a satchel to a backpack, while others include high-tech features like built-in speakers and battery chargers.

What to Look for in a Diaper Bag

Diaper bags come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. Most importantly, you want one that covers the basics and has plenty of room for some diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and a bottle (if you bottle-feed). But after that, there are endless possibilities and options to fit every one of your needs. If you have a lot of phones and tablets and gadgets when you’re on the go, you’ll want to check out the high-tech bags that double as portable power stations.

For parents who are all about the latest trends, brands like Freshly Picked and Kibou offer diaper bags that look more like high-end handbags than sippy cup carriers. And the good news is, you don’t have to make a major investment to get your hands on a diaper bag that meets all your needs. In fact, you can use many of the bags on this list, including options from Skip Hop, Parker, and Fisher-Price, well past when your kids are in diapers—and they are all under $100!

So where to begin? Start with our list below! We’ve taken the difficulty out of picking a diaper bag by sharing our top picks for 2021.

The post The Best Diaper Bags for Every Mom and Dad, All Under $100 appeared first on Parenting.

Searching for luggage for kids is such an exciting rite of passage for parents. First, congratulations on deciding to travel with your children, which is no small feat. What doesn’t need to be difficult is choosing the best suitcases, backpacks, and bags for the occasion. We’re here to help you sort all that out so that all you have to worry about is what to pack for your trip.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

That’s consideration No. 1 in this kids’ luggage process: The trip you’re taking (an overnight adventure at Grandma’s house versus a voyage by air or sea to a tropical island) can impact what type of bag is best to buy. It’s also wise to consider what your kids roll with on a daily basis—in addition to clothes and shoes, maybe they take a stuffed turtle wherever they go or need a spot to stow their electronic devices. They probably also pack a snack (or several) and a reusable water bottle. This will help you decide how many pockets and compartments you’ll need.

Size is also a consideration: What your 4-year-old can carry differs greatly from what your 8-year-old can handle (especially if they’re going to be responsible for their own bag). And then, of course, there’s the design. Little kids may want their favorite cartoon character to adorn their luggage, while older ones may stick to bright colors or patterns. With that in mind, you may want to look for more affordable luggage they’ll outgrow in a couple of years or invest more in something they’ll be able to pack for college one day.

Thankfully, there are plenty of options to choose from, and we’re helping you sort through them to find the best luggage for your kids.

Best Kids’ Luggage

• Best Affordable: Protege Kids 3-Piece Luggage Set
• Best Backpack: Cat & Jack Unicorn Kids' Backpack
• Best Carry-On: Crckt 18" Kids Carry-On Suitcase
• Best Rolling Suitcase: Stephen Joseph Classic Rolling Luggage
• Best Ride-On Suitcase: JetKids by Stokke
• Best Personalized Luggage: Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Blue/Gray Glow-In-The-Dark Carry-All Travel Bag
• Best Hard Shell: Mima Ovi Trolley Suitcase
• Best Kids’ Luggage Set: Traveler's Club Kids' Five-Piece Luggage Set
• Best Disney-Themed: American Tourister Kids’ Disney Hardside Upright Luggage
• Best Boys’ Suitcase: Marvel Spider-Man Hardside Spinner Luggage
• Best Girls’ Suitcase: State Bags Mini Logan Suitcase
• Best for Animal Lovers: Costway Two-Piece Kids' Luggage Set

What Types of Luggage Are There for Kids?

Kids’ luggage falls into four main categories:

• • • • Backpacks

        If your child is school age, you are undoubtedly familiar with the array of backpacks available. Backpacks are often a cheaper kids’ luggage option and are ideal for short trips (like that sleepover at Grandma’s or a weekend excursion to an indoor water park) or as a carry-on for plane rides (their size allows them to be easily stowed underneath the seat in front of you). Backpacks should be made of durable material; often contain pockets for water bottles, electronics and small items; and are easy for kids to carry.

• • • • Carry-On and Rolling Luggage

        Carry-on luggage is sized within TSA guidelines (a maximum of 9 by 14 by 22 inches) and usually comes in the form of a duffel or shoulder bag. There are also several rolling suitcase options, which are easy for kids to maneuver on their own (and for parents to take over when their tots tire out). Carry-ons and rolling luggage are often made from soft yet durable material, feature many zippered compartments, and are available at several price points.

• • • • Hard-Shell Luggage

        Hard-shell luggage is made from material that can take a beating without damage. Look for suitcases made from polycarbonate, which is scratch-resistant and can withstand being dropped or thrown onto hard surfaces. While hard-shell luggage has some flexibility, it doesn’t bend or flatten the way soft suitcases and duffel bags will. But it’s ideal for kids to sit on when an actual seat isn’t available. And it’s durable, which is basically a synonym for kid-friendly.

• • • • Ride-On Luggage

        Yes, this is a thing. Manufacturers actually make suitcases that your kids can climb aboard to sit on when they get tired of walking. Some also resemble scooters or standing strollers and have a footboard attached. (Genius!)

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Luggage

When trying to decide the best luggage to buy for your kids, ask yourself the following questions:

• • • • What is your budget?
      • How often do you travel? How do you get there? Car? Plane? Boat?
      • How old are your kids?
      • How self-sufficient are your kids?
      • How much gear (toys, electronics, food and water) do they need?
      • Will you be buying more than one piece of luggage?
      • What accessories or features are most important to you?

Below, we break down the best luggage for kids by category, using features and customer reviews to guide us. Safe travels!

The post The Best Luggage for Kids, Whether They’re Jetsetters or Traveling for the First Time appeared first on Parenting.

Video games can be fun for the whole family, from the youngest little gamers to tech-savvy teens, as well as the parents who sneak in their own gameplay from time to time. If you’ve stayed informed about which video game consoles are right for various ages and stages of aspiring video game experts, you still may be wondering if the console you want is in stock.

RELATED: The 15 Best Baby Toys for 6- to 12-Month-Olds to Hit, Kick, Stack, and Stick in Their Mouths

Since their releases in 2020, the PlayStation 5  and the Xbox Series X have been consistently hard to find in stock. While that’s a vote in their favor, you should know there are other options, especially when it comes to children who aren’t necessarily demanding the ultimate 4K UltraHD experience and simply want to have some fun.

For example, kids love the ever-popular Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch Lite. This year, there’s also the addition of the Switch OLED, wand its high-resolution screen. There are also ways to play games on other mobile devices, plus a couple of throwback gaming devices that parents can get nostalgic about while introducing their kids to the classics.

So save yourself the trouble of searching for what your kids want, because we’ve got the scoop on the best video game consoles for kids below.

The post The Best Video Game Consoles for Kids, Including Some You Can Actually Get Your Hands On appeared first on Parenting.

When I brought my perfect little newborn home from the hospital, I suddenly found myself wondering why these bundles of joy don’t come with instruction manuals. Diaper rash, strange-colored poop, figuring out exactly how to swaddle a baby effectively—there’s no shortage of things to figure out with a new baby. So when our baby boy suddenly developed flaky, scaly skin all over his scalp and across his forehead, I was horrified and at a loss for how to treat this seemingly alarming issue. As it turns out, what our baby had is known as cradle cap, and there was no need to panic.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

Cradle cap is quite common, according to Debra M. Langlois, MD, a pediatrician at the University of Michigan. “It typically appears in the first weeks of life, gradually improves over weeks to months, and often resolves by 1 year of age,” she tells Parenting.

That doesn’t mean, however, that there’s nothing you can do to treat this unpleasant infant condition.

Best Cradle Cap Solutions

• Fridababy The FlakeFixer 3-Step Cradle Cap System
• Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby 2-in-1 Shampoo and Wash
• Fridababy DermaFrida The Skin Soother
• Tubby Todd The Extra Tubby Regulars Bundle
• Mustela Baby Cradle Cap Bundle With Natural Avocado
• FridaBaby Oh Cr*p Cradle Cap Flake Fixer Scalp Spray + Scalp Mask Duo
• Babyganics Infant Cradle Cap Cleansing Oil
• Scalp Scrubbie Cradle Cap and Baby Bath Time Sponge Brush
• Burt’s Bees Baby Shampoo and Wash (Pack of Three)
• Bella B Bee Gone Cradle Cap Baby Shampoo

What Is Cradle Cap?

“Cradle cap is yellow, scaly patches and redness on your baby’s scalp,” Langois explains. “Sometimes this scale can be so widespread and thick on the scalp that it resembles a cap.”

While this is most common in the first 6 months of life, according to Adena Rosenblatt, MD PhD, assistant professor of pediatric dermatology at the University of Chicago, it can also be seen in children and teens and adults.

“The medical term for ‘cradle cap’ is seborrheic dermatitis and is on the spectrum of dandruff,” she tells Parenting. “It is thought to be due in part to an overgrowth of a yeast that is commonly found on the skin.” The condition is luckily not harmful and usually goes away on its own, but parents often choose to treat cradle cap with at-home remedies.

“Sometimes you can get some hair loss associated with cradle cap but please be reassured that this is not a permanent hair loss and the hair will grow back over time,” Rosenblatt says.

How to Treat Cradle Cap

Both doctors expressed that there is usually no need to treat cradle cap. “While the sight of cradle cap may be bothersome to parents, it is not harmful, and thankfully doesn’t tend to be bothersome to the baby,” Langois says. But if your baby seems itchy or uncomfortable, or if the cradle cap becomes red or seems irritating, it’s time to go to the doctor, because those could be signs of a secondary skin infection, according to Langois.

Cradle cap itself is not infectious, so it won’t spread to others. (Phew!) That being said, I know that I was too impatient to wait the few months necessary for my son’s cradle cap to clear up on its own, and I eagerly researched all the different techniques and potions for treatment.

Most of the treatment methods involve either starting with a gentle soap or oil to soften scales, then removing flakes manually with a brush. Some people recommend following this up with an additional moisturizing treatment. “I would recommend applying mineral oil to the scalp and gently combing the hair with a comb,” advises Rosenblatt. Langois’ system of choice is washing your baby’s hair with a mild shampoo and using a soft brush or fine tooth comb to gently remove the flakes.

According to both doctors, one method I used was a clear no: “I would avoid picking the scale off the scalp. It often removes the hair as well,” says Rosenblatt. Langois adds that picking anything off your baby’s skin increases their risk of developing an infection. So as tempting as it can be to lift those flakes off with your fingertips (guilty!), try to avoid doing so and choose one of the gentler options below.

The post The Best Cradle Cap Treatments: Doctors Explain What to Do (and What Not to Do) About This Skin Condition appeared first on Parenting.

Black Friday here, and new parents and parents-to-be, we have great news for you: We’ve found some of the best deals on must-have baby items you’re going to want to buy.

RELATED: These Black Friday Toy Deals Already Have Us Stuffing Stockings and Hiding Gifts in the Basement

Why buy now? You’ve probably already realized that a lot of baby gear can be expensive, and even the small items add up. So if you can stock up now, you really should. That means looking for those big-ticket items like strollers, car seats, and cribs, at discounted prices whenever the opportunity strikes.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

If you’re not the one expecting a little one but plan on buying a gift for someone who is, you’ve come to the right place. Black Friday sales this year include great deals on baby clothes, skincare for little ones, carriers, nursing and postpartum goods, dish sets for new eaters, maternity bras, and just about everything else a family with a new addition needs.

Get ready to spoil your baby, or your new grandchild, niece, nephew, or bestie’s baby. Just keep on scrolling to see the best Black Friday deals for baby goodies and gear!

Amazon

To buy: Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor and Wall Mount, $224.99 (originally $299.99); amazon.com.

As always, Amazon has major deals on everything and the kitchen sink, but some of our favorites include baby monitors, strollers, bassinets, healthy items for baby, toys, playpens, sippy cups, and diaper bags.

• Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller, $449.99 (originally $599)
• Century Stroll On Duo Lightweight Double Stroller Metro, $157.49 (originally $219.99)
• Dream on Me Lacy Portable 2-in-1 Bassinet, $39 (originally $60.70); amazon.com.
• Nuk Large Learner Sippy Cup, $7.69 (originally $10.99)
• Disen Non-Contact Thermometer for Adults and Kid, $15.99 (originally $29.99)
• Happy Trails Rocking Dagwood Dragon, $74 (originally $109.99)
• Yobest Portable Large Playpen, ($161.27, originally $189.74)
• Nuby Teething Plush Pal, $11.54 (originally $18.50)
• Fussion Diaper Bag Backpack With Changing Station, $26.99 (originally $39.99)

Target

To buy: Chicco Bravo 3-in-1 Quick Fold Travel System, $299.99 (originally $399.99)

Your favorite place to shop for, well, everything, has more Black Friday baby deals than Santa has reindeer. We found a few of our favorites, like strollers, car seats, cute little outfits and so much more.

• Just One You 2pk Floral Sleep N' Play, $5.99 (originally $9.99) 
• Babyjoy 4-In-1 Baby Tricycle Kids Stroller, $102.99 (originally $189.99)
• Baby Trend Sit N' Stand Tandem Stroller, $179.99 (originally $227.99)
• Baby Trend Ally 35 Infant Car Seat Carrier Travel System, $99.99 (originally $125.99)
• Fisher-Price Snugamonkey Cradle N Swing, $135.99 (originally $169.99)
• Babymoov Cosydream Ultra Newborn Lounger Pad, $62.99 (originally $80.99)

Ollie Gray Maternity

The maternity and postpartum lingerie brand is offering 23 percent off when you buy the Ollie Gray Maternity Mom Bundle. Buy one Anywhere Bra  and each of the four styles from The Everything Covered Underwear collection for $100. No code is necessary, the discount is automatically applied at checkout, and the sale runs from November 26 through November 28.

BuyBuy Baby

To buy: Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car Seat, $224.99 (originally $299.99)

There are, of course, lots of deals from America’s biggest baby gear store, including lots of specials on car seats and carriers.

To buy: Cybex Mios Stroller with Rose Gold Frame and True Red Seat, $549.99 (originally $699.99), buybuybaby.com.

• Storkcraft Solstice 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, $239.99 (originally $299.99)
• Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor, $299 (originally $399)
• Storkcraft 3-in-1 Activity Walker with Jumping Board and Feeding Tray, $95.99 (originally $119.99)
• Gerber 2-Pack Floral Sleep ‘n Plays, $18.00 (originally $30.00) ​​

Carter’s

The children’s clothing brand is offering so much cuteness for Black Friday, including new deals every day starting now.

For toddlers who love characters, here’s a few of our favorites, all $9 (originally $18):

• Hot Wheels Tee
• Captain America Tee
• Minnie Mouse Tee
• Disney Princess Tee

And some adorable team onesies for little ones, all $13, originally $24:

• Boston Celtics Bodysuit
• Cleveland Cavaliers Bodysuit
• New York Yankees Bodysuit
• Houston Astros Bodysuit

Ergobaby

To buy: Ergobaby Omni 360 Newborn Bundle, $184.80 (originally $264); ergobaby.com.

You’re probably going to need a baby carrier if you’re expecting or have a newborn, and parents swear by the light, easy-to-wear Ergobaby. The site is offering 20-30 percent off bundles that include a carrier, teething pad, swaddle, and a sleeping bag. The brand’s OMNI 360 Cool Air Mesh in Black Tweed will be priced at 40 percent off from November 24 through November 28 with code FRIDAY40. For Cyber Monday, you can get an Embrace newborn carrier with the purchase of any carrier (excluding the Embrace and Wrap) for free, with code CYBER from November 29 through December 3.

Walmart

The discount store promises to save you money this holiday season, and what’s better than that? Deals for Days has kicked off and we’ve found some of the best deals for new parents that you can shop online (because deals from home are the best deals). Find our picks below:

• Safety 1st Grow and Go Sprint One-Hand Adjust All-in-One Convertible Car Seat, Soapstone II, ($129, originally $159)
• Summer Infant Essex Craft Safety Gate, ($49, originally $89.99)
• Costway Foldable Travel Baby Playpen, ($105.99, originally $219.99)
• Little Folks First Steps 3-in-1 Sit-to-Stand Bouncer by Delta Children, ($89.99, originally $119.99)

Ezpz

Mealtime favorite dishware brand Ezpz is offering 25 percent off across the site.

Lalo

The maker of chic modern play tables and high chairs for babies and toddlers is offering up to 40 percent off and free shipping from November 24 through November 30.

Maisonette

From November 25 to November 27, the hub of chic kids' clothing, well-crafted toys, and baby gear is offering 10 percent off purchases over $75, 15 percent off purchases over $300, and 20 percent off any purchases over $600. If you miss those dates, the same special will run on Cyber Monday, November 29.

Ten Little

The doctor-recommended, parent-approved kids’ shoe brand recently branched off into selling educational toys too, and it’s offering site-wide discounts from November 15 through November 30. You’ll find toys such as the Crocodile Creek Stacking Wooden Zoo puzzle, and the cutest shoes ever like the Everyday High Top (we love it in silver), Everyday Baby Booties and sweet Mary Jane Flats, all for 15 percent off with a purchase of $150 or more with code HOORAY15 and 20 percent off purchase of $200 or more with code HOORAY20.

Pipette Baby

The gentle, sustainable brand is offering an incredible 40 percent off site-wide with code SAVEBIG. Everything is 40 percent off, and the sale has already started. For baby, don’t miss the bestselling baby balm, shampoo and wash, and the baby essentials kit. And for parents, pick yourself up a tube of the under-eye gel to help combat those sleepless nights (it gets better, we promise).

Nordstrom

Black Friday savings savings at the luxury retailer include loads of fancy pants baby gear and goodies on sale for up to 40 percent off. We love nice things, and here we’ve picked a few of our faves:

• Nuna Cudl Baby Carrier, $199.95 (originally $219.95)
• Cybex Solution B2-Fix+ Lux Booster Seat, $119.96 (originally $149.95)
• TwelveLittle Peekaboo Crossbody Diaper Bag, $52 (originally $66.99)
• Naturepedic Lightweight Classic 2-Stage Crib Mattress, $231.20 (originally $289)

Skip Hop

To buy: Unicorn Cry Activated Soother, $31.99 (originally $40); skiphop.com.

We love Skip Hop for encouraging imagination play with baby and toddler toys, and for making parents’ lives easier with bags, feeding accessories, and other baby essentials. For Black Friday, get 20 percent off sitewide, including already reduced items.

• Curve Diaper Bag Satchel, $50 (originally $100)
• Madison Square Diaper Tote, $42.50 (originally $85)
• Moby Bathtub Elbow Rest, $14.40 (originally $18)

The post Get Baby Essentials and Gifts for So Much Less During These Black Friday Sales appeared first on Parenting.

If you’ve ever dreamed of just throwing everything in your home in the washing machine, chances are you’re a parent. Only recently has this been a possibility when it comes to rugs that, well, don’t look like they’re just meant to be easy to clean. Ruggable rugs are actually gorgeous, and the Ruggable Black Friday sale makes them attractively priced too.

RELATED: The Best Black Friday Kids’ Mattress and Furniture Sales to Shop Right Now

Ruggable rugs are low-pile, lightweight, and fit well in any room of the house. Plus, because they are stain-resistant and waterproof already, spills can easily be wiped up without too much effort. But when it’s time for a deeper clean to get rid of mud tracked in by adventurous little ones, food that doesn’t seem to remain in the kitchen or dining room, and all the other dirt and muck of family life, you can just stuff your Ruggable rug into the washing machine.

Each rug pairs with a custom rug pad that is made to stay put. When the rug gets dirty (and it will), take the cover off the pad and place it in the washing machine using mild detergent. Dry on low heat, and when it’s done it will be as good as new.

The rugs are perfect for high-traffic areas like the living room or kitchen, as well as playrooms and bedrooms, and they come in a variety of designs to match any aesthetic. Rugs are available in sizes ranging from 2 feet by 3 feet to 9 feet by 12 feet—with round styles, doormats, and runners, too—and even the largest of these can fit into most machines.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

For those kids’ rooms (or rooms for kids at heart), Ruggable partnered with Disney and Star Wars to license cool rugs that pay homage to our favorite characters. The Rebellion Rug is perfect for the Jedi in your life, while we can’t get over this Mickey print design that would look so cute in a Disney-themed nursery. We also love the other kid-friendly designs featuring rainbows, space, dinosaurs, robots, and jungle animals.

Ready to buy? All Ruggable rugs will be on sale for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Beginning Thursday, November 25, through Monday, November 29, use code TGIBF21AFF for 15 percent off sitewide. Sale prices below reflect the code.

The post Ruggable’s Black Friday Sale Includes All of Its Miraculously Machine-Washable Rugs appeared first on Parenting.

We are constantly learning new things about how important sleep is to our kids’ health and development. And the more we know, the more we want to do everything we can to improve that sleep, which means buying them a comfortable, supportive mattress. Here are some general guidelines for picking the best mattress for kids in 2021, whether you’re looking for a standard twin or crib mattress or want to get fancy with other types of mattresses, like green tea-infused, organic, memory foam, or innerspring.

RELATED: The Best Black Friday Kids’ Mattress and Furniture Sales to Shop Right Now

“As a sleep physician, [I think] executing a smooth transition to a big kid bed is an opportunity and a milestone for a child,” Dr. Meredith Broderick, a board-certified specialist in neurology and sleep medicine, said in an email endorsing Helix's new mattress designed for kids. “Creating an optimal sleep environment is a key component of that transition.”

We want kids’ mattresses to be optimal for their bodies, but their bodies are constantly changing. With that in mind, we either need a mattress that can change with them (as the Helix and Saatva Youth mattresses do, flipping over to switch between firm and medium soft), or one that’s not so expensive that we’ll mind buying a new one in a few years.

Best Mattress Types for Kids

Firm: Firm mattresses, like those with an innerspring design, are best for babies because they prevent the risk of SIDS and keep small children safe and supported. Older kids can help choose the firmness of their mattress based on preference.

Soft: Soft mattresses with gel inserts or pillow top designs can help keep older kids comfy. Soft mattresses for children over 18 months are a matter of preference, and can still offer plenty of support for great sleep.

Spring: Spring mattresses are the traditional mattress design and can offer supportive sleep for babies, toddlers and big kids alike.

Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses are becoming more common and are available for cribs and standard bed sizes. Memory foam is often more affordable and can offer more support.

How To Choose a Mattress for Your Kids

Choose your child’s mattress based on size and material preference. Babies and toddlers typically require a crib mattress (see below), while older kids usually require a twin, full-size or larger mattress if you prefer. Older kids can use both spring and memory foam mattresses and can choose the firmness of mattress based on personal preference. Special features like organic materials, waterproof design, pillow top, and more should be decided upon in regards to personal taste and special circumstances, like bed wetting, allergies, or support needs.

How To Choose a Crib Mattress

Babies under 18 months old should always use a firm mattress to prevent the risk of SIDS and keep your child breathing safely and comfortably through the night. Cribs often transition into toddler beds, so crib mattresses that are used after 18 months can be made with softer material. Many dual-sided crib mattresses are available with a firm side for babies and a softer side for toddlers.

Shop some of the top-rated mattress brands of 2021 below.

• Best Twin Mattress: Helix Kids
• Runner-Up Twin: Casper Original
• Best Full-Size Mattress: Tuft & Needle Full Mattress
• Best Organic Mattress: Naturepedic Verse Kids Organic Cotton Mattress
• Best Waterproof Mattress: AC Pacific Foam Waterproof Mattress
• Best Crib Mattress: Newton Baby Wovenaire Crib Mattress
• Best Organic Crib Mattress: Naturepedic Breathable Organic Crib Mattress
• Best Mini Crib Mattress: Babyletto Pure Core Non-Toxic Mini Crib Mattress
• Best Memory Foam Mattress: Zinus Cloud Memory Foam Mattress
• Best Toddler Mattress: Dourxi Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed Mattress
• Best Foam Crib Mattress: Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress
• Best Waterproof Crib Mattress: Newton Baby Waterproof Crib Mattress
• Best Firm Mattress: Saatva Youth Dual-Sided Mattress
• Best Pillow Top Mattress: Modway Jenna Quilted Innerspring Mattress with Pillow Top
• Best Cooling Mattress: Classic Brands Cool Gel Ventilated Memory Foam Mattress
• Best Spring Mattress: Linenspa 6” Essential Innerspring Mattress
• Best Supportive Mattress: Purple Kids' Mattress

The post How to Pick the Best Mattress for Kids in 2021, With 16 Options appeared first on Parenting.

As fun as shopping for kids’ furniture and décor is, it can also be so tricky. Along with finding reliable mattresses and stylish furniture pieces, you have to also take into account your kid’s unique tastes. The last thing any parent wants is to spend time, money, and creativity on a gorgeous room with everything we think they want, and have them not love it (or outgrow it in a couple of years). Fortunately, it’s the best time of the year to shop for big ticket items, because Black Friday mattress and furniture sales are here, and we’re going to save you the hassle of going to multiple stores and websites looking for a good price.

RELATED: These Early Black Friday Toy Deals Already Have Us Stuffing Stockings and Hiding Gifts in the Basement

The good news is you can score quality kid- and teen-friendly furnishings—it just takes a little digging. Luckily, we did the work for you. Below, browse major deals on mattresses, along with bedroom furniture sets, rockers, bed frames and so much more! The best part? You don’t have to wait until after Thanksgiving to shop some of these sales. Many of the retailers listed below have already released their Black Friday deals, and they are too good to pass up.

And while there are some holiday gifts that make great surprises, we want to point out that if your kid has very particular tastes, the best thing to do is work with them on creating a space of their own that feels safe and comfortable.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

Also, if you’re concerned about making a major purchase like this online, many of these retailers offer generous return policies and warranties as well as free shipping. Just be sure to read the fine print before clicking checkout.

Helix

Score savings of up to $100 off from the direct-to-consumer mattress site, plus get two free pillows with your purchase of a twin (or larger) during the mattress and pillow brand’s Early Access! Black Friday Sale. Even better news for parents: Helix now makes a kids’ mattress that’s specially designed for their needs. Use codes BFSALE100 for a mattress purchase from 11/1 through 11/28.

• Helix Sunset Twin Mattress and 2 Dream Pillows, $599 with code (originally $699); helixsleep.com.
• Helix Kids Mattress, $549 with code (originally $649); helixsleep.com.

Amazon

Amazon is ready to deliver deals to your front door during the holiday season, including discounts on mattresses, bed frames, and bedding at prices that parents will appreciate as much as the kids who are eager to get new additions to their rooms.

• Simmons Gel Memory Foam Mattress 7-Inch Twin, $215.99 (originally $239.99); amazon.com.
• Danjor Linens Twin Size Bed Sheets Set, $17.99 (originally $33.99); amazon.com.
• Natchimoor Full Platform Metal Bed Frame with Headboard and Footboard, $132.59 (originally $155.99); amazon.com.

Allswell

Save 20 percent on everything the direct-to-consumer bedding shop offers, including the Allswell Littles collection, with the code THANKFUL until November 23.

• The Essential Crib Mattress, $92 (originally $115); allswellhome.com.
• Allswell Mattress Twin, $212 (originally $265); allswellhome.com.

Target

Keep your eyes peeled for major sales from Target later this month. In the meantime, there are already deals to be had on furniture for the whole family, like this bunk bed that’s 42 percent off.

• Costway Twin over Full Bunk Bed, $422.99 (originally $729.99); target.com.
• Christopher Knight Home Pearcy Sheep Ottoman, $83.69 (originally $92.99); target.com.

Bear Mattress

Black Friday early access has kicked off at the retailer known for plush foam mattresses, with 25 percent off site-wide, plus a free gift set (worth $250) with any mattress, with code EARLYBIRD at checkout.

To buy: Bear Original Twin, $522(originally $695); bearmattress.com.

Tuft & Needle

The direct-to-you furniture and mattress brand is offering an early-access promotion ​​that includes 20 percent off box foundations, foam pillows, end tables, and jersey sheets, as well as 15 percent off Original, Mint and Hybrid mattresses.

To buy: T&N Original Twin Mattress, $760.75 (originally $895); tuftandneedle.com.

Casper

From now until December 5, OG direct-to-consumer mattress company Casper is offering 30 percent off mattress bundles, 20 percent off mattresses, and 10 percent off everything else.

To buy: Casper Original Twin Mattress, $590.75 (originally $695); casper.com.

Macy’s

The venerable department store is offering daily deals and specials throughout the season on everything in store and online. We love the mattress and bedroom furniture specials, some of which are more than 50 percent off!

• Tribeca Storage Full Platform Bed, $599 (originally $799); macys.com.
• Primo Artic Cloud 14" Plush Twin Mattress + 1 Free Pillow, $309 (originally $759); macys.com.

Purple Mattress

Get $100 off the Purple kids' mattress, which includes No-Pressure Support, a cooling feature, and instant response just like its adult mattresses, plus kid-friendly features like a machine washable cover.

To buy: Purple Kid Mattress, $499 (originally $599); purple.com.

Overstock

Black Friday has already kicked off at the discount website, which means you’ll get even lower prices than the usual great deals. You’ll find 70 percent off thousands of items, and mattresses and kids furniture will be up to 25 percent off.

• Sleeplanner 14-inch Modern Black Metal Platform Bed Frame, $103.99, (originally $129.99); overstock.com.
• Seaside Lodge Twin Bed, Night Stand, and Chest, $1211.26 (originally $1,459.99); overstock.com.

Pottery Barn Kids

When we want fun but also chic children’s furnishings, we often turn to Pottery Barn Kids. The retailer is offering up to 50 percent off across all categories, including luggage and Disney-themed products. All clearance items are an extra 20 percent off with code: COZY!

To buy: Phoenix Convertible Rocking Chair & Ottoman, $88.99 to $799 (originally $299 to $899); potterybarnkids.com.

Saatva

The sales have already started at this mattress site, which already promises major comfort without the high prices. You’ll find 10 percent off everything on the site, or 15 percent off orders over $2,500.

To buy: Saatva Classic Twin, $798.30 (originally $887); saatva.com.

Wayfair

The site that offers every style of furniture has already kicked off Black Friday savings, offering up to 50 percent off bedroom furniture starting at $150 and much more.

To buy: Grantville 6-Drawer Dresser, $209.99 (originally $299); wayfair.com.

Walmart

Walmart never lets us down with major Black Friday deals, and 2021 is no different. You’ll find early deals on everything for your home.

• Paw Patrol 4 pc Toddler Bed Set with Bonus Blanket, $34.99 (originally $49.94); walmart.com.
• DHP Junior Metal Loft Bed, Silver, $99.97 (originally $149.99), walmart.com.

The post The Best Black Friday Kids’ Mattress and Furniture Sales to Shop Right Now appeared first on Parenting.

If we had all the money in the world, some of us would use it to buy our kids an entire 1980s-era FAO Schwarz full of toys for the holidays. Without those unlimited funds, however, we have the next best thing: an internet full of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

RELATED: Get Baby Essentials and Gifts for So Much Less During These Black Friday Sales

To make shopping for the babies, toddlers, big kids, and teens in your life go super smoothly this season, we hunted down some of the best toy deals for you—which, to be honest, is kind of the best job ever. Having spent all year looking at brightly colored shape sorters for toddlers, cuddly stuffed animals and costumes for preschoolers, every Lego kit and trendy fashion doll imaginable, and all the various games and sets of wheels big kids covet, we know a thing or two about which toys are worth buying this year. And that means we also know which toys are a steal during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

When Is Black Friday?

This year, Black Friday falls on November 26, but some giant stores, like Amazon, Macy's, and Walmart, kicked off Black Friday sales weeks ago. That means the lists of toys that go on sale are constantly changing. Smaller retailers and toy brands are still reserving their biggest discounts until the official day after Thanksgiving. And there are even more deals that won’t be in place until Cyber Monday (November 29).

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

For that reason, we suggest starting with the toys here, and then bookmarking this page to visit us again through the end of the month. You may hit upon the perfect gifts on your first try, but you never know if something even better may come along later too.

Below are some of the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on toys kids love:

Amazon Deals

To buy: Barbie Dreamhouse, $159.00 (originally $224.99); amazon.com.

Amazon early Black Friday deals have been popping up since October, and they’re constantly shifting based on how many people snap them up. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch something huge, like a Barbie Dreamhouse, on sale at just the right moment. But at all times, you’re guaranteed to find good deals on Melissa & Doug’s great toys for preschoolers, building toys from Lego and Clixo, remote control cars from several brands, and even an L.O.L. Surprise doll or two.

• Melissa & Doug PAW Patrol Wooden ABC Block Truck, $19.99 (originally $26.99)
• Clixo Itsy Magnetic Toy, $23.99 with coupon (originally $29.99)
• L.O.L. Surprise OMG Remix Lonestar Fashion Doll, $22.99 (originally $35.99)
• Monster Jam, Official Grave Digger Freestyle Force Remote Control Car, $49.97 (originally $59.99)
• Umogy Pop Purse, $14.44 (originally $16.99)

Walmart Deals

To buy: Lego Classic Bricks and Animals, $29 (originally $58); walmart.com.

Walmart is fast on Amazon’s heels in the early Black Friday toy game, and we are impressed with the steep discounts offered on the top brands for kids and parents. Find Lego sets, sturdy and imaginative play kitchens from KidKraft, highly rated drones, fashionable Barbie and L.O.L. dolls, and a Disney castle or two.

• KidKraft Uptown Espresso Wooden Play Kitchen with Chalkboard, $99.00 (originally $199.99)
• Barbie Estate 3-In-1 Dreamcamper, $60 (originally $99.99)
• Lego Star Wars Skywalker Adventures Pack, $50 (originally $79.97)
• L.O.L. Surprise OMG Remix Rock Ferocious Fashion Doll, $17 (originally $24.49)
• Disney Princess Fold N Go Celebration Castle, $25 (originally $52.99)
• Snaptain S5C-720P WiFi FPV Drone with 720P HD Camera, $79.99 (originally $99.99)
• Hover-1 Blast Hoverboard, $79 (originally $118)

BuyBuy Baby Deals

To buy: Edushape Build ‘n Play Forest, $14.99 (originally 19.99), buybuybaby.com.

Leading up to Black Friday, the baby essentials mega-store has discounts of up to 25 percent off many toys geared toward babies and toddlers. That includes several fun sensory toys from Edushape, popular Magformer tile sets, and plush toys that are just as fun for babies to cuddle as to stick in their mouths.

• Magformers 62-Piece Rainbow Set, $79.99 (originally $99.99)
• Edushape 4-Inch Sensory Balls (Set of 4), $12.74 (originally $16.99)
• Animal Tales Treasury Sound Book by Eric Carle, $14.99 (originally $19.99)
• Dolce Aardvark Plush Toy, $23.99 (originally $29.99)

Toca Life Box and Sago Mini Box Discounts

To buy: Toca Life Box, $12 first box (originally $19) with code TOCABF2021 and monthly subscription; tocalifebox.com.

The makers of adorable kids’ video games Toca Boca and Sago Mini have been bringing their worlds and characters to three-dimensional life via monthly subscription boxes that encourage creative and open-ended imaginative play. From now through November 30, you can get $9 off and free shipping on Sago Mini Box monthly plans (for ages 3-5) with the code SAGOBF2021. Get $7 off the first Toca Life Box (for ages 6-11) and free shipping with a monthly plan using the code TOCABF2021.

Skip Hop Deals

To buy: Skip Hop Explore & More Sort & Spin Yeti, $24 (originally $30); skiphop.com.

Right now, Skip Hop is offering 20 percent off sitewide. That includes toys for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

• Skip Hop Explore & More Selfie Phone, $8 (originally $10)
• Bandana Buddies Yeti Chime and Teethe Toy, $4.80 (originally $6)
• Farmstand Rock-a-Mole Guitar, $14.40 (originally $18)

Macy’s Deals

To buy: Paw Patrol Movie Pups Gift Pack, $16.99 (originally $21.99); macys.com.

It should surprise no one that the department store that brings us the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and one of the best places in which to visit Santa, also has excellent Black Friday toy deals. This is where you can find some familiar faces for much less.

• FAO Schwarz Piano Dance Mat, $31.99 (originally $79.99)
• Barbie Color Reveal Surprise Party Dolls and Accessories, $39.99 (originally $49.99)
• Star Wars Baby Yoda Pillow Buddy, $19.99 (originally $60)

Michael’s Discounts

To buy: 100 Piece Kid's Art Tote by Creatology, $9.99 (originally $14.99); michael.com.

The home of grown-ups’ craft supplies is also an excellent place to get art supplies and craft kits for kids, especially with the early Black Friday deal that will get you 20 percent off with code 20MADEBYYOU (with some restrictions), plus free shipping on orders of $49 or more, through November 27.

• Perler Harry Potter Deluxe Fused Bead Kit, $14.39 with code MADEBYYOU20 (originally $17.99)
• Crayola S.T.E.A.M Paper Flower Science Kit, $23.99 with code (originally $29.99)
• Kid Made Modern Comic Book Kit, $15.99 with code (originally $19.99)
• Creativity for Kids Ice Cream Shop Sensory Bin, $15.99 with code (originally $19.99)

The post These Black Friday Toy Deals Have Us Stuffing Stockings and Hiding Gifts in the Basement appeared first on Parenting.

No matter the season, a good stroller blanket can be key for a successful outing. They can keep your baby warm and cozy when the weather gets cooler, of course. They can also shield babies from the sun, cover up a car seat or carrier, double as a swaddle for on-the-go naps, and provide a soft surface for tummy time.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

Could you use a regular baby blanket as a stroller blanket? Sure, but stroller blankets are specifically sized to be big enough to keep your babe tucked in, without having a ton of extra fabric that’s at risk of dragging or getting caught in stroller wheels. You only need to make that mistake once to realize how important this is!

RELATED: The Best Night-Lights to Help Kids Fall Asleep, Even if They’re Afraid of the Dark

Stroller blankets that are designed for winter weather function essentially like baby sleeping bags, with the additional benefit of being able to strap in securely to your stroller so that you can rest assured that your little one will stay protected from the elements but not slip while being wheeled around.

Needless to say, this is one piece of baby gear that every parent should own. We’ve rounded up a list of the best 11 stroller blankets out there, for every type of adventure—even if that’s just a walk around the block!

Best Stroller Blankets:

• Best Overall: KicKee Pants Essential Prints Stroller Blanket
• Best for Winter: 7A.M. Enfant Plushpod Footmuff
• Best Weather-Resistant: JJ Cole Urban Bundle-Me
• Best Muslin Blanket: Aden + Anais Aden Stroller Blanket
• Best Lightweight: Uppababy Colorblock Knit Stroller Blanket
• Best for Newborns: 7A.M. Enfant Nido Cloud Heavyweight Infant Wrap
• Best for Toddlers: 7A.M. Enfant Blanket 212 Evolution
• Best Affordable: Boritar Baby Blanket
• Best Reversible: Burt’s Bees Baby Organic Reversible Jersey Stroller Blanket
• Best Knit: Burt’s Bees Baby Cable Knit Blanket
• Best Personalized Stroller Blanket: Pottery Barn Recycled Chamois Baby Blanket

The post The 11 Best Stroller Blankets to Keep Your Baby Warm and Cozy All Winter appeared first on Parenting.

As most parents (and anyone who was once a kid) know, toddlers and kids are often afraid of the dark. Who can forget the monsters in our own childhood closets? As their brains grow, your kids will develop an active imagination and form a fear of harm, which is a good and natural thing! The dark can be really scary for a little person with a big imagination, but it’s also no match for a good night-light for kids. With the right light they’ll eventually be able to get a good night’s sleep.

Of course, you want your kids to feel safe, and you may also want to check in on them at night without tripping all over their furniture and toys, so a night-light to illuminate the room can be so helpful. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way from the days of the simple plastic night-light with an incandescent bulb plugged into an outlet.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

There are dozens of highly rated night-lights that do more than just keep a corner lit. There are huggable night-lights, projecting night-lights, night-lights with sound machines, night-lights for travel, and so much more to suit your baby, big kid, and even yourself.

If you haven’t shopped for a night-light in a while, you’re going to be pleasantly surprised by everything these handy little lights can do. We found lights with timers to help with sleep schedules, lights that look like unicorns, owls, and birds—not to mention lights that play soothing lullabies.

We’ve found the best-rated kids’ night-lights for you and your little ones so that bedtime is a little bit easier—and happy kids stay in bed longer (fingers crossed).

The post The Best Night-Lights to Help Kids Fall Asleep, Even if They’re Afraid of the Dark appeared first on Parenting.

It happens so quickly: One minute, your baby is a little bundle who stays wherever you place them, and the next, they’re off and running down the street. For those few steps in between, you’re going to want to have an excellent pair of baby shoes. The best shoes for new walkers are ones that have soft soles, breathable material, and room to move and grow. In those moments as your infant becomes a toddler, the right baby shoes are going to give them the confidence they need to put one foot in front of the other.

RELATED: Get more parenting tips, advice, and great deals delivered straight to your inbox.

Watching your baby take their first steps is an exciting milestone for you and them. And once they’re cruising, you’ll have some criteria to look at for their first pair of baby walking shoes so they can do some of that cruising outside. Many types of infant shoes are on the market, but which ones are the best shoes for new walkers? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has developed recommendations to help you find the best shoes for babies learning to walk.

To be clear, shoes aren’t going to help your baby walk. The AAP says children learn to walk by gripping their toes on the ground, and they don’t need arch support. So at home, it’s OK—and even preferred—to leave your child barefoot to promote natural foot development. Shoes to help baby walk aren’t really necessary—the best shoes for babies learning to walk are ones that allow their feet to move as naturally as possible as if they’re walking barefoot while still protecting those little feet when surfaces are uneven, dirty, hot, cold, or rocky. And if they happen to look like classic sneakers or their favorite mythical creature, all the better.

The AAP gives three specific tips to follow when shopping for shoes for new walkers:

1. Baby shoes should be lightweight and flexible to support natural foot movement.
2. Baby shoes should be made of soft leather or mesh to allow your baby’s feet to breathe comfortably.
3. Baby shoes should have rubber soles for traction to prevent slipping or sliding.

Based on these guidelines, here are 14 baby walking shoes you might consider for your tot’s first steps:

The post The Best Toddler and Baby Shoes for New Walkers to Help Them Explore the World appeared first on Parenting.

The period between the ages of 11 and 17 was challenging for my mother and me. Back then, we did our best to avoid talking about the changes that were going on in my body. We didn’t go bra shopping. And she didn’t prepare me for the acne that would soon take over my face. As a result, I had to figure out how to deal with practically everything about puberty, including my teen skin-care regimen, on my own. When my daughter was born, I knew she’d be a teenager and that we’d have to face that uncomfortable time one day. And since there was nothing I could do to stop time, I did everything I could to make the transition as painless as possible, including introducing her to a cool Korean skin-care brand.

I started laying the foundation when she turned 10, reading books on puberty and initiating cringe-worthy conversations about everything from acne to maxi pads. But despite trying to prepare my daughter (and myself) for the change that was looming, I don’t think either of us was ready for what happened in the months between her 10th and 11th birthdays. Almost overnight, my Dora the Explorer-loving, tutu-wearing toddler turned into a text-obsessed tween who was subject to frequent breakouts. As things began to change with her body (and her mood), I knew it was time to introduce new steps into her hygiene routine, including washing her face twice a day.

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According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne, like almost every other awful thing about puberty, can be triggered by hormones. During this already awkward phase, a tsunami of hormones causes the skin’s oil glands to produce an abundance of oil, which leads to clogged pores and acne. The AAD recommends washing your face twice a day with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser without alcohol to remove oil, dirt, and makeup from the skin and prevent breakouts.

I tried everything to get my daughter to make those twice-daily cleanings a natural part of her daily routine, but unlike texting her best friend every detail of her day, washing her face was something she just couldn’t remember to do. That meant every morning, I turned into a drill sergeant, shouting reminders to my daughter to wash her face before she raced out of the door.

Although I wanted to let her assert her independence, I couldn’t let go of my not-so-gentle daily reminders to take care of her basic hygiene practices. But neither my nagging nor my colorful hygiene checklist were enough to get her to make washing her face a priority.

I knew I had to get creative to find a way to make her want to wash her face without having to be told. And I realized that part of allowing her to be independent meant finding a cleanser that she felt was her own. So I scoured the internet for skin-care products with cool packaging or anything else that would make her interested in her hygiene. That’s when I stumbled onto I Dew Care, a line of fun K-beauty skincare products that look like they were all created with my daughter in mind.

To buy: I Dew Care Gel Cleanser for Sensitive Skin with Panthenol and Pawfect Face Scrubber, $22.50; amazon.com.

Korean beauty or K-beauty products generally favor gentle ingredients over harsh products, which make them generally safe for sensitive skin. I Dew Care makes lots of face masks and serums with adorable names like Disco Kitten, but I decided to start with Gentle Vibes, the brand’s mild cleanser.

As the name implies, Gentle Vibes is a cleanser that cleans oil and dirt from the skin without being harsh and irritating, the way many acne-fighting cleansers aimed at teens can be. The product is vegan, gluten-free, and tested on people with sensitive skin, which made me believe it would be mild enough for my tween’s changing skin.

A little Gentle Vibes goes a long way. Just a pea-sized amount of this light gel cleanser in your palm is enough to make a nice lather that can cover your entire face. Then it rinses away easily, leaving no residue behind.

Panthenol, a natural moisturizer that converts to vitamin B5 in the skin, is one of the essential ingredients in Gentle Vibes. It helps reduce irritation and is safe for use by people with sensitive skin. And I knew that if the product alone wasn’t enough to get my daughter excited, she’d love using the accompanying spa headband with kitten ears to keep her hair out of her face.

To buy: I Dew Care Gel Cleanser for Sensitive Skin with Panthenol and White Cat Headband Bundle, $22.50; amazon.com.

I was right. Having a facial cleanser of her own made my tween feel empowered to take charge of her own self-care. And the cute headband appealed to the kitten-loving little girl that is still inside of her. I can’t say that I have been able to stop my nagging altogether, but I can say these days I hear myself saying, “Don’t forget your water bottle,” more often than, “Wash your face.”

The post With This Korean Skin-Care Line, I Don’t Have to Nag My Daughter to Wash Her Face appeared first on Parenting.

Cold weather really doesn’t mean the outdoor fun has to stop for your kids. That is, as long as they’re dressed warmly and have a solid pair of kids’ winter boots, if your local climate includes snow, slush, and ice. Nothing ends a good sledding trip—or a simple walk home from school—more miserably than wet, cold feet.

Winter boots for kids have so many features that make them a necessary choice before stepping out in cold winter weather. The best snow boots are waterproof, windproof, and insulated against those low temperatures (sometimes with ratings down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit). Extra traction on rubber soles helps your child stay standing, and it also gives them the grip to climb up sledding hills. Most important for parents who know the pain of getting kids in and out of winter gear, a pair of boots made for kids will have an opening that makes both putting them on and keeping snow out easy.

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When shopping for kids' snow boots, it’s the extra features that make them really worth the purchase price (which often will be higher than what you pay for summer sandals). A good pair of boots has insulation that keeps feet dry as well as warm, and some even have liners you can pull out at the end of the day so that they can dry off quickly. The outside of the boot should be able to withstand scuffing and salt in addition to the wet and cold. And you want something solid you or your kids can grip to pull on their boot without worrying it will rip or break.

Then, of course, you want boots that will match your kids’ style. That could be just about finding the right color (or even the right adorable animal theme). Some kids are also reluctant to wear chunky or heavy footwear, so you’ll want boots that are light or have a slimmer silhouette. You can also opt for insulated and waterproof hiking boots if your kids aren’t fans of traditional boot styles and won’t be wading in deep snow.

Whether you’re walking to school or spending the day building a snowman, the boots on this list are cozy, warm, and waterproof, and they’ll stand up to anything your child puts them through. Shop below.

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Though you may not have finalized your kids’ Halloween costumes yet, you really may want to consider shopping for their holiday gifts (or future birthday presents, for that matter) right now. You don’t want shipping delays or “supply chain issues” ruining Christmas, for one, and for another, gift shopping for kids should be all fun and zero stress. One thing that should certainly help in that process is knowing which are the hottest toys kids will really be coveting this year, and to that purpose, Walmart has released its 2021 Top-Rated by Kids toy list.

The retailer gathered a “Toy Board” of kid influencers to choose the 39 toys on this list, so you know these aren’t just the items some stuffy execs want flying off shelves, but the things kids are really into right now. For the littlest kids, that means a CoComelon-themed ride-on toy and a real bounce house. For preschoolers, there’s a huge Paw Patrol: The Movie tower and Baby Alive dolls. For kids of all ages, there are sensory-stimulating toys like Kinetic Sand and high-tech items like a KidiZoom PrintCam and an animatronic Star Wars Grogu (aka Baby Yoda). Bigger kids can hop on a scooter or skateboard, while the whole family can join in a giant game of Sorry.

RELATED: The 15 Best Baby Toys for 6- to 12-Month-Olds to Hit, Kick, Stack, and Stick in Their Mouths

This list, organized by age range, really takes a lot of the guesswork out of shopping for children. And because we can’t just assume our kids will be into Barbie just because we were, or that they’ll prefer shooting hoops over slinging webs with these Spider-Man gloves, Walmart has one more trick up its sleeve: the Walmart Wonderlab. This is an interactive tool on the Walmart site that allows you and your kids to look at select toys in action in short on-demand videos.

Then again, if you don’t want them watching those videos and automatically assuming you’ll buy them the most expensive toy they see, maybe you’ll want to do your toy-shopping homework on your own. Below are some of our favorites from the 2021 Top-Rated by Kids toy list. Be sure to go to Walmart.com for more.

The post These Top-Rated Toys Are Already Selling Out, so It’s Not Too Early to Shop for the Holidays appeared first on Parenting.

Most parents and caregivers are familiar with the age-old battle of trying to keep small kids busy and active indoors while preventing the house from getting destroyed. That’s why items like the Nugget couch have become so popular over the years. While little bodies need to move in order to keep occupied, it’s really easy for them to get hurt if they use everyday items as their own personal gymnasiums. A play couch makes that indoor activity safe, and possibly even more fun.

Unfortunately, Nugget play couches have become really popular, especially during the pandemic, which means sometimes they can be hard for families to get their hands on. The good news is, there are plenty of Nugget couch alternatives that offer the perfect opportunity for children to get out their wiggles without destroying your furniture (or breaking the bank).

Best Play Couches

• Best 8-Piece Play Couch Set: Costzon 4-in-1 Unique Shapes Convertible Climb and Crawl 
• Best Kids’ Couch for Additional Seating: Children’s Factory The Whatsit Kids Couch or 2 Chairs
• Best Foldout Nugget Alternative Couch: Jaxx Zipline Kids Modular Loveseat & Ottomans
• Best Splurge Play Couch: Isabelle and Max Marrero Zipline Playscape Modular Sofa
• Best Color Options for a Play Couch: Pottery Barn Kids Foamnasium Blocksy Kids Couch
• Best Play Couch for Smaller Spaces: Pottery Barn Kids Foamnasium Blocksy Mini Kids Couch
• Best Nugget Alternative for a Mix of Ages: Shenanigan Kids Figgy
• Best Play Couch for Hiding Stains: Sam's Club Member's Mark Kids' Explorer Sofa
• Best Play Couch for Lounging: Huddle Customizable Kids Couch

What Is Nugget?

The Nugget is a microsuede play couch that comes in four foam pieces that are the perfect shape and size for young kids to move around by themselves. They can be set up into several configurations to make forts, obstacle courses, and lounge areas. When the children are done using them, they stack back up into an attractive toddler-size couch which looks great when it’s not in use. 

What to Look for in a Play Couch

Nugget-style play couches see a lot of action—and we mean a lot, because they’re perfect for jumping on, rolling off of, and, yeah, sitting on. For that reason, they need to be both soft and durable. And because little kids can make big messes, they also need to be easy to clean. A good play sofa will either have machine washable covers that can be removed and tossed in the washer, or be made from a durable fabric that’s easy to spot clean. Additionally, they should have a firm filling (think firm foam that’s soft enough for kids to play on but not so soft that it will quickly lose its shape) and have enough pieces that your child can move them into several playful configurations.

The post Nugget Couch Alternatives: Let Your Kids Bounce, Lounge, and Build With These Foam Play Couches appeared first on Parenting.