Toddler furniture comes in different styles, shapes and sizes. But, there are some toddler furnitures that prove to be indispensable. Below are five toddler furnitures that should be present in every child’s bedroom.

Toddler Bed

Once your little one is too big for the crib or he begins to climb out of the crib, it is time to shift to a new bed. A toddler bed is smaller than a standard bed that gives your toddler the freedom to get in and out of bed without you having to worry if he is going to hurt himself. There are different types of toddler beds you can choose from:

• Platform Bed – for toddler room’s with small space
• High Sleeper Bed – a space saver bed wherein drawers, computer desks, chairs, etc. fit in the space underneath this bed, comes in various colors and shapes and can also be decorated in a variety of ways
• Car Bed  - a favorite of children, this bed is made in the shape of a car that comes in different shapes and sizes
• Sleigh Bed – a bed that has a curved headboard and footboard giving the bed a regal and elegant look, can also incorporate features such as drawers and shelves for extra storage space

Dresser

Storage is essential. It provides a space for everything in the bedroom and it encourages your toddler to clean up and keep his room tidy. Dressers are available in different styles and colors so you can get one that will complement your toddler’s bedroom. A dresser made of wood is the most durable as it is lighter and less likely to break or collapse. A wooden dresser also matches most themes and colors of a room. Some kids’ dressers also come with a nightstand, headboard, desk or storage chest. Make sure you choose a dresser with rounded corners and wooden knobs to avoid any mishaps.

More Storage Pieces

You will need a range of storage pieces so you can keep your toddler’s room in tiptop shape. Toy boxes are ideal for storing your toddler’s toys and other knickknacks. Cupboards, drawers and wicker baskets can all be added to your toddler’s room for functionality and effect.

Play Table and Chairs

A play table and a couple of chairs are essential items every toddler room must have. This will divide the room into two – sleep area and play area. The play tables and chairs are especially designed for children providing your little one a space where he can safely and comfortably play.

Bookcase

Go for a bookcase that has several cubicles that can fit the books as well as small storage bins and baskets to create more space in the room. Opt for a vertical bookcase instead of a horizontal one so your toddler can easily reach every shelf without trying to climb on the furniture.

A toddler’s room should be kept as simple as possible. After all, your little one will spend a lot of time sleeping, playing and learning in this area and a wide, spacious room allows him to do all these things freely.

The bedroom is the most used room in a house. When it comes to decorating a toddler room, one has to make sure it is captivating. Here are some tips to help you create a room that is functional and appealing for your precious one.

Choose A Theme or Color

The first step in decorating a toddler room is to come up with a theme or color. Walls take up most of the visual space in a room so make sure you choose one that is fun yet relaxing. For toddler boys, popular themes include airplanes, cars, ships, planet and Disney characters. For toddler girls, flowers, butterflies, fairies, Barbie, Hello Kitty and princess themed rooms are very chic. If you prefer not to use a theme, choose a cheery paint color for the walls. To make sure your toddler will like it, bring your little one with you and let your child pick out the color. Do not worry if your toddler picks out 2 different colors. Just choose colors that will complement each other, like blue and green, white and yellow, sky blue and yellow or pink and purple.

Remember The Basics

Do not go crazy and buy every cute furniture and knickknack you see in a store. A toddler’s bedroom should be simple and roomy enough for a toddler to wander freely. The top 2 needs in a toddler’s room are sleeping and storage. To maximize the space, buy furnitures that double as a storage space. Buy a bed that has drawers on the bottom, chairs with storage space underneath the seat, a dresser with built-in cabinets and a small bookcase so you can put lots of things on it (e.g. books, toys, storage baskets, etc.).

Provide Good Lighting

A good, safe lighting for your toddler’s room is important. Natural light is the best light so ensure that window treatments are not too thick so as not to obstruct the sun’s rays. Installing a skylight not only lights up the room but also doubles as a centrepiece. Remember not to place lamps on the table as your toddler may run over it and hurt himself.

Create A Play Area

Since your toddler’s bedroom doubles as a play area, why not designate a space where your little one can enjoy this activity? Add a small table and a few small chairs (you can choose from plastic, wood, or modern sets to match the theme), a bean bag or a rocking chair near the bookshelf. This way, his toys will only be scattered in one area making cleaning up easier.

Select Fun, Eye-catching Decorations

What sets a beautiful room apart from others is the decor. Add elements related to the room’s theme or objects that interest your toddler. Frame your toddler’s artworks, baby pictures and family photos and hang them in the wall or display them on the shelf. You may also hang a clothesline and use some clothespins to display them. Install lightweight curtains and wooden blinds to beautify the windows. Choose beddings, blankets and pillows in colorful designs. Place a large, bright-colored rug in the play area. Just make sure that all of the elements go well together so the room will not be an eyesore.

Decorating your toddler’s room is a fun and exciting activity the two of you can do together which is very helpful for your little one to welcome the new room with open arms.

Now that your precious angel is growing up, it is time to turn that nursery into a room that can grow with your toddler. Below are some easy toddler room ideas you can try.

Talk To Your Toddler

You will not be able to transform a baby nursery to a toddler room if you do not know the needs and wants of your toddler. He will be the one to use it, so it would help to know what his likes and dislikes are. Sit down with your toddler and discuss what colors or interests he would like to have incorporated into his room. Let him help you make some of the decisions.

Pick or Change A Theme

You can either keep the theme of your nursery or come up with a new one. However, the latter is a better idea because when you created your nursery, you and a few other people made all the decisions. This time, let your toddler choose the theme that he likes for his room. After all, he is going to be the one spending a lot of time in there. Go out with your toddler, shop around and help him select a theme that he likes.

Choose A Bed That Appeals To Your Toddler

The bed is going to be the major focal point of your toddler’s bedroom. Therefore, you have to pick a bed your toddler will like. You can keep his convertible crib to help him easily transition from crib to toddler bed or choose custom theme beds. They are safe, sturdy and versatile substitutes to traditional beds. Plus, it will let your toddler infuse more of his individuality into the room. You can even have custom theme beds designed to blend in with the elements of your toddler’s nursery so it will not make him feel like he is in a strange environment.

Take Out Excess Furnitures

Now that your little one can sit up, crawl and walk, he will need a room that has lots of space so he can move around without hurting himself. Get rid of unnecessary nursery furnitures such as the changing table and the nursery rocking chair. He will only need a dresser, cabinet (for storing your toddler’s clothing essentials), a toy box (for his toys) and a durable small-sized set of table and chairs where he can perform his activities (e.g. coloring, drawing, storytelling, etc.).

Change Room Accessories

One of the quickest and least expensive ways to convert a nursery to a toddler room is to change bedroom accessories. You can repaint the walls, change beddings, window treatments, lighting, use wall art, place picture frames or hang your toddler’s artworks.

Create A Quiet Area

After a long day of playing, your toddler will need a place where he can relax. Create a quiet corner that invites rest by placing books, stuffed animals, pillows and a small chair.

Transforming a nursery into a toddler room is actually very easy. All you need to do is to prepare and plan carefully so you can provide your toddler with a flawless transition from the nursery into the toddler’s bedroom.

A toddler car seat is every parent’s best friend when driving. It keeps your toddler safe and happy so you no do not have to constantly check on him and lose your focus on the road. With all the choices available today, how will you pick the best one? Here are five basic features of a good toddler car seat.

Five-point Safety Harness

The first feature you should look for is a 5-point safety harness. Although a 3-point harness is okay, it does not offer ample protection for your child. These are straps that will hold your toddler in place without obstructing movement. There should be straps for each of your toddler’s shoulders, one each for his thighs and in between your toddler’s legs. This will provide your baby security as well as give protection against ejection (in case of  a head-on collision).

Head Protection

Every toddler car seat must have a head protection feature. This will give your toddler extra safety when it comes to side-impact collisions. The amount of head protection offered depends on the seat so go for toddler car seats with TSIP (True Side Impact Protection) or car seats with a layer of EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam.

Easy Installation

The third feature is the ease of installation. A good toddler car seat must be easy to install yet secure. Reports show that accidents in children mostly happen inside the car due to an improperly installed car seat. A toddler car seat wrongly installed can lead to injury and even death. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website has a list of car seat ratings that will help you look for car seats that are easy to install and at the same time safe. Some car seat brands feature buckles on the backside for easy modification. You should avoid seats like these and go for a car seat with automatic adjusting features or front adjustment systems instead.

Comfortable

A good toddler car seat should be comfortable. Your toddler has to enjoy his stay in the car especially during long hours of driving. A well-padded car seat that will support your little one’s head, neck and back will help him stay comfy and relaxed for hours. In addition, the car seat should permit your baby to move his arms and legs and also watch the view from the window.

Easy To Clean

Last but not the least, a toddler car seat should be easy to clean. A toddler cat seat is used frequently and toddlers tend to be messy. As a result, the car seat easily collects dust and grime, therefore, it needs to be cleaned regularly. A car seat should have removable parts and a cover that you can take off easily. Also, you should be able to clean it just by vacuuming, brushing, wiping or placing it in the washing machine. Toddler car seats are quite expensive and a car seat that breaks easily or those that cannot withstand constant usage and washing is a waste of money.

There are a lot of toddler car seat brands available. They key to getting the perfect one for your toddler is to not get overwhelmed and prioritize what is most important – the well-being of your precious one.

There are a lot of toddler stroller brands available to make your head spin. So how will you know which one is the best? Read reviews. Below are the top five toddler stroller brands that have received the highest reviews and awards.

Baby Jogger

Baby Jogger is a manufacturer of high-performance strollers and joggers. This brand pioneered the invention of the three-wheeled or all-terrain jogging strollers (available in singles and doubles). It also has recently introduced traditional strollers for everyday use. The Baby Jogger brand is one of the highest reviewed strollers by owners and reviewers. Parents especially love the stroller’s light built, one-hand quick-fold technology, reclining seat and multi-position sun canopy.

Baby Jogger City Mini Single Stroller

• Lightweight
• A swivel front wheel that can lock into place for lithe maneuverability
• Patented quick-fold technology (ideal for traveling)
• Large multi-position sun canopy with clear view windows
• Large, easy to access under seat storage basket
• Modifiable 5-point safety straps with shoulder pads and buckle cover

Baby Trend

Baby Trend is another popular brand of toddler strollers. It offers single strollers for one child as well as double and triple strollers for multiple children. Baby Trend strollers have a lightweight steel frame construction, adaptors that connect to child seats, all-terrain bicycle tires, adjustable canopy with sun visor and covered roof patches, parent and child cup holders and storage baskets. The strollers are even MP3 player compatible with built-in speakers, perfect for entertaining both parent and child.

Baby Trend Stride Sport Stroller

• Multi-position reclining seat
• 5-point safety harness with cushioned harness covers
• Height-adjustable handle
• One-hand fold
• Large storage basket
• Independent rear brakes
• Large sunshade with peek-a-boo window and lattice insect net
• Covered parent tray with two deep cup holders

Chicco

Chicco, an Italian brand established in 1958 is an international company that specializes in making clothing and gears for babies and toddlers. Chicco strollers are fashionable and functional so parents can move in style while toddlers remain comfortable. It has a one-touch set up feature for easy use and portability. Plus, the all-weather features keep you prepared and your little one safe whether you are taking a stroll in the park or hiking trails.

Chicco Cortina Stroller

• Dubbed as one of the safest strollers
• Multi-position flat recline seat
• All-wheel suspension
• Two-position leg support
• Rotating, detachable sun canopy
• Parent and child cup holders
• Large storage basket

Graco

Graco is one of the most trusted manufacturers of strollers. The company has produced a large collection of stroller products to ensure mommies and daddies needs are accommodated. You may choose from lightweight strollers (for simple traveling), double strollers (for multiple children) and full-size strollers (very functional).

Graco UrbanLite Stroller

• Multi-position flat recline seat
• Has a 50-pound weight capacity for years of comfortable strolling
• Height-adjustable handle
• One-hand standing fold with storage latch
• Compatible with all Graco SnugRide car seats to create your own travel system

Maclaren

Maclaren is a name synonymous with good quality strollers and is the most advanced brand of strollers. Maclaren strollers are lightweight and easy to push. Regarded as one of the best strollers that celebrities love, they are also one of the most affordable.

Maclaren Triumph

• Durable
• One-hand fold
• Has a 55-pound weight capacity (a stroller that can grow with your toddler)
• Comes with a rain cover, water resistant hood and UV protected window

You have a lot more options to choose from. But, these five toddler stroller brands are undoubtedly the best and the most versatile gear you can get for your precious one.

A toddler high chair makes eating convenient for your toddler but is not designed to be cleaned easily. Follow these simple techniques to make cleaning your toddler’s high chair a breeze.

Use Bibs

A bib makes a high chair easy to clean. Choose a large bib that covers the length of your toddler’s torso and with a pocket in the front. So each time the food does not make it into his mouth, it will drop into the pocket and make cleaning up easier.

Wipe The High Chair After Every Meal

Although it is very tempting to skip this step, you have to make sure that you get rid of pieces of food on the high chair since food stuck in cracks is a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. Cleaning your toddler’s high chair after every meal will not only prevent food from sticking to surfaces and make cleaning hassle-free but also prevent your toddler from getting sick.

Clean The Entire High Chair Several Times A Week

Take the cover off the high chair and clean the entire high chair several times a week, depending on how often your little one uses the seat. There are three ways to clean the high chair:

• Combine 1 part distilled white vinegar with water in a spray bottle. Spray the entire high chair with it and wipe it down with a clean rug.
• Mix 1 part rubbing alcohol with water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution and wipe it down once the residue has dried off.
• Sprinkle baking soda onto the surfaces and let it sit for a few hours before wiping it up or combine a paste of water and baking soda and rub the mixture into the surface of the high chair with a clean cloth immersed in water.

These natural disinfectants will remove odors and sanitize the high chair without leaving behind any harmful chemicals that can jeopardize your toddler’s health.

Dry The Cover of The High Chair Thoroughly

Make sure that the cover is dry before you put it back on the seat. A wet cover will promote the growth of molds and other bacteria. Air dry the cover of the highchair overnight if possible.

Repair Broken Cover Immediately

If your cover tears, use adhesive to close it. Gaps in the cover will allow food and liquids inside the cover and once mildew and bacteria penetrates the inside of the cover, it is very impossible to clean the high chair.

Clean High Chair Covers Appropriately

Different types of high chair covers require different cleaning methods. High chair covers made of fabric is the easiest to clean since they are hand and machine washable while leather and vinyl covers should be wiped clean and air dried overnight since leather is prone to water damage and the growth of mildew and vinyl tears easily.

Feeding time means a lot of mess and cleaning. While it can be tiring to clean your toddler’s high chair often, just keep in mind that your toddler’s health and safety is your utmost priority.  Do not sweat the small stuff, enjoy mealtimes and messy meals instead.

Backpack diaper bags are a must-have accessory for parents. They are simple, versatile and very easy to use. Here are some reasons why a backpack diaper bag is perfect for moms and dads on the go.

Convenient

Traveling with a toddler is like traveling with a group. With your toddler’s thirst for action and endless energy, toting a shoulder style diaper bag is just inconvenient. A backpack diaper bag is ideal for hands-free travel with your toddler. It goes with you without having to think too much about it. After all, you have more important things to worry about. You can feed your toddler and adjust his jacket at the same time without having to worry about shoulder straps sliding down.

Multiple Storage Space

Organization is a must when traveling with a toddler. The best thing about backpack diaper bags is that they are designed with padded compartments of all kinds, inside and out so you can keep everything exactly where it should be. You will always know where everything is so once your toddler starts to cry, you do not have to rummage through things just to find his favorite stuffed animal to pacify him. The quicker you find what your little one needs, the happier your toddler will be, and therefore, mommy also reaps the benefits.

Comfortable

Carrying a bag and your toddler at the same time can be uncomfortable. But with a backpack diaper bag, you avoid the tendencies of shoulder strain because you can carry the bag’s weight evenly on both shoulders. The shoulder straps are also adjustable so you can adjust them for a more secure and snug fit.

Makes Room For You

Backpack diaper bags are larger as compared to traditional diaper bags. This means that you no longer have to take another bag with you to hold your personal belongings. You can simply stash your travel mug, keys and wallet in your backpack’s side pocket. Most backpack diaper bags have a compartment for laptops so you can take your laptop along and get a little work done while your toddler is happily playing in the playground.

Perfect For Mommy and Daddy

Another benefit of backpack diaper bags is the fact that they are not gender-specific. Most dads do not want to lug around a diaper bag covered in cute dolls or teddy bears. A backpack diaper bag looks great on both guys and gals, so your husband no longer has to buy a separate bag to use when he wants to take your little one somewhere.

Stylish

Backpack diaper bags today are more modern so you no longer have to sacrifice your personal style. These backpacks are available in a myriad of colors and designs so you can choose one that will fit easily into your wardrobe.

No need to think twice about buying a backpack diaper bag. It is your best option for carrying your toddler’s things so you can be on top of your toddler’s needs while enjoying your outdoor adventures at the same time.

A toddler bed should be able to support a growing body and also survive the occasional “rough play” toddlers love to do. A lot of choices are available and choosing the best is certainly a challenge. But, with this checklist, you can easily pick a bed perfect for your precious angel.

Choose A Style

Start shopping for a toddler bed by visiting your local toy and furniture stores. You can choose from a single, twin or full-sized toddler bed. There are many style and color options available so choose which one suits your toddler and his bedroom best. Do you want a standard shaped bed or you prefer a contemporary bed (e.g. beds in the shape of race cars, football or fire trucks)? Do you prefer a toddler bed made from wood or steel? Whatever style you choose, make sure your toddler can use the bed for many years.

Look For Safety Features

A toddler bed should be low to the ground. This will make it easier for your toddler to get up and down from his bed. Since your little one is still perfecting his balance, a bed that is low to the ground decreases the chances of your toddler to get hurt in case he falls off.

Opt for a toddler bed that comes with safety rails or guard rails. Transitioning from a crib to a bed will take some getting used to and having safety rails attached to the toddler bed prevents your toddler from falling out of the bed in the middle of the night. Look for detachable rails so you can simply remove them as your toddler gets older.

Make Sure It Is Multipurpose

It is much better to buy a toddler bed that comes with built-in drawers especially if your toddler’s room is small. The drawers give you and your toddler extra storage for storing extra blankets, pillows, clothes, his treasured toys and other knickknacks.

Buy A Quality Mattress

Once you have chosen a bed, look for a mattress. A durable mattress will keep toddlers comfortable. Go for an innerspring mattress with a box spring to provide ample support for your little sleeper. Make sure that it is firm enough to support young growing bones yet snug enough to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Check The Product

Make sure you check the bed before buying to ensure it is in excellent condition. The guard rails should be adjustable so you can set it higher or lower and must be 2 3/8 inches apart. See to it that all the parts work smoothly and fit together securely. Go over the toddler bed and keep your eyes open for sharp and cracked parts and loose-fitting connections that could squeeze little fingers. Test the stability of the bed by giving it a good shake. It should be strong and stable and not fall apart after a few wiggles.

Making the move from crib to a bed can be a hard transition for toddlers. Help your toddler feel more at ease so he can welcome this change with open arms by buying a toddler bed that is safe, fun and durable.

What you stuff in your toddler’s diaper bag affects the outcome of your day outside the house. Anticipate your trip, know how many hours you will be out and the places you will go so you can adequately pack a diaper bag and have a successful outing with your toddler.

Diapers and Wipes

Your toddler will no longer need as many diaper changes. But, it is still important you pack at least two extra diapers especially if you are spending the entire day out. Chances are, he will wet his pants when he is away from the house even if he is potty-trained. Packing a handful of wet wipes or baby wipes is also very helpful especially now that your toddler is very inquisitive and is constantly on the move. The wipes will make it convenient for you to wipe his hands clean, remove stains and spills or sanitize a highchair.

First-aid Kit

Basic medical supplies such as tissues, band-aids, gauze pads, alcohol, hand sanitizer, rash and teething creams, fever and pain relievers and some medication (if your toddler is regularly taking prescription medicines) should always be available at all times in your toddler’s diaper bag.

Extra Set of Clothes

At this point, most of your toddler’s attention is directed towards playing. Expect a lot of physical play, frequent spills and other childish mishaps which will leave him feeling sticky and grimy and most often lead to an outrage. To combat this, always have at least one complete change of clothes in your toddler diaper bag. A shirt, a pair of shorts or pants, underwear and socks will keep your toddler fresh and clean anywhere you go.

Changing Pad

You never know when or where you will have to change your toddler’s diaper. Public restrooms’ changing pads are just too insanitary which can put your precious one’s health at risk. Bring your toddler’s changing pad. It is lightweight and rollable so you can be sure it will not make your diaper bag bulky.

Books and Toys

Your toddler will get bored waiting for you to finish an errand. To keep him entertained and to help you finish your errands faster, bring at least one book and toy in your diaper bag. Packing a coloring book and toy car will provide a good distraction.

Snacks

Toting a hungry child with you is a nightmare. Prevent tantrums, cries and screams by packing food and drinks. Fill his sippy cup with water, milk or juice. Bring small containers of crackers, cereal, pretzels or fresh fruits.

Wet Bag

Include a wet bag (small, handy and foldable little containers) or a plastic zipper bag in your diaper bag. This is very handy when it comes to storing wet and soiled diapers and clothing and other items you wish to separate from the rest of the contents of your bag.

Comfort Item

There are days when your little one will not stop crying no matter how much you pacify him. This can be embarrassing especially when you are in a crowded place. Bring your toddler’s comfort item (e.g. pacifier, his favorite teddy bear, pillow or blanket) with you to help calm your distressed toddler.

Stick with the essentials and from there; add the items which you think will benefit your toddler. A well-stocked diaper bag is the key to achieving a happy and worry-free time outside your home.

Switching from a crib to a toddler bed is a momentous milestone in your toddler’s life. It is a period of adjustment so expect mixed feelings of excitement, happiness and anxiousness. Keep the following tips in mind to make the move as smooth as possible.

Spotting The Signs of Readiness

You know your toddler is ready for that big change when:

• He is tall enough (approximately 36 inches tall) and is able to stand in his crib.
• He becomes an escape artist – constantly climbs in and out of the crib.
• He knows how to use the toilet or when he is potty trained.
• He shows an interest in beds more than his crib.

How You Can Make The Change Easy

Right Timing Is Everything

Change is never easy to accept especially when it comes to children who thrive on consistency. Just like any transition (e.g. potty training or sleeping in their own room), timing is important. Make the change at a time your toddler is calm and happy. Never introduce this idea while he is coping with something – a new baby, an illness or a new skill perhaps. Take it slow. Time, try and test it so there is plenty of time for adjustment.

Talk To Him About It

Do not just set up the bed and take out the crib and expect your little one to be thrilled. Remember, the crib served as his place of comfort and security during the first 3 years of his life and he might not be willing to give it up just yet. Casually bring up the topic at a time he is relaxed - during his playtime, when you feed him or at night before putting him to sleep. Tell him that he is becoming such a big boy and that big boys need a special bed.

Let Him Choose His Bed and Bedding

The transition will be easier for your little one if you get a toddler bed and a bedcover that he likes. Visit furniture stores together so he can check out his options. For instance, if he has a fascination for trucks, get him a toddler bed that looks like a truck and a bed sheet, pillowcase and blanket with trucks printed on them. The more involved your toddler is in the mechanics of the transition, the more likely he is to cooperate and handle the move well. Once he sees his new things, he will probably be giddy and impatient to jump in his new bed.

Keep His Crib Visible

Keep his crib in his room for the mean time. This will help your toddler adjust better. Do not position his new bed the same spot where his crib is. Instead, place his bed in the opposite corner. In this way, your toddler will be comforted with the crib’s presence even if he is sleeping in his new bed. This also gives him the option of which bed he wants to sleep in during nap time and bedtime.

Introduce It At Nap Time

If your toddler is still reluctant to sleep in his new bed, it would be best to introduce it during his nap time when light is present so he can survey his surroundings. This allows him to be acquainted with the strange object and once he is comfortable with it, he will start sleeping in it at night voluntarily.

Place Old Comfort Objects In The Bed

Keep anything that he uses for comfort like a teddy bear or a special pillow he sleeps with in his crib. This creates a feeling of familiarity and security so your toddler will not feel overwhelmed with the change.

Do not worry if the transition does not go well at first. This is a big step in his life. Be patient and support your toddler.