In your home, does Santa wrap gifts? Or leave them laid out unwrapped on Christmas morning? According to my Instagram, folks are divided pretty evenly on this.
We won't decorate our home until after Thanksgiving (my husband is one of those people), but that hasn't stopped me from getting my shopping done early. Our guest bedroom has stacks of gifts ready to be wrapped and given to those who mean so much to us. I wanted to share what we'll be gifting our foster daughter, who will be 11 months old in December, for Christmas. These items could easily be given to younger babies or older toddlers, too, so if you have a little one, check out this list for some unique ideas!
Something you need. We picked out two things she is in need of this season. The first is her own overnight bag. With the upcoming holidays and anticipated travel, baby needs something to carry all of her clothes and toys in without taking over my suitcase. I've owned several Lands' End bags over the years, and knew the zipper top tote would be perfect. We ordered in a size large and had her name embroidered on it so it will be hers forever.
The second thing she's in need of is her own dishes. I can't believe it, but she'll be one year old in January and is already eating solid foods. As she grows into a toddler she'll need her own plate, bowl, and cup that are baby sized and not breakable. After researching, we landed on Mushie brand. She's had several paci clips, teethers, and toys in this brand that have all been high quality, and I just love the neutral colors! You can purchase through their website, Amazon, or sometimes in store at TJ Maxx.
Something you want. Before you judge me, hear me out. We decided to get babe a Fire 8 tablet from Amazon for her want. These tablets are made for older toddlers, but it was half off as part of a Black Friday sale and I can't pass up a good deal when I know we would eventually need one. She may not be able to use it by herself quite yet, but we do have an 8 hour drive to Orlando planned for early next year and I'm hoping streaming Peppa Pig will help keep her entertained! I love how it comes with a bumper case for protection and children's shows already downloaded.
We also know she'll most likely be given a lot of toys from her extended family this Christmas, so we didn't feel the need to load her up with toys at home. Don't worry, she'll have plenty to play with!
Something to read. This category is my favorite. As an avid reader, I have loved curating a diverse library for our nursery. I picked out two books for her, one board book and one hardback. Guess How Much I Love You and Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World These are both highly rated online, and I know she'll love them for many years.
Stocking Stuffers. Honestly, stockings are my favorite tradition of Christmas. I know a lot of families only use them for looks, but growing up mine was always loaded down with unique gifts and I'll definitely be continuing that tradition with our kiddos. I love the challenge of finding things small enough to fit.
Here's what we came up with for baby S this year: Dachshund in dog carrier toy from a local boutique Black Tulip, Jamie Kay organic bodysuit and matching leggings, Orbit Labels by InchBug so we don't lose her sippy cups, Bright Star Kids name stickers for her clothes and toys that may get mixed with other kids, and two Hemming Birds Ollie Bandana Bibs that I picked up at Indie Craft Parade. We've been using the Charlie Snap Bib style since she was a newborn, but thought the Ollie would be perfect for her now as she starts to teethe and drools everywhere!