What is it, why do I like them and when* are they appropriate for children?
- Color coordinated kitchen utensils, found at a local bargain store. Color coordinating children’s activities helps them with their sense of order. It is essential when setting up activities to have all of the items together so the child does not need to ask or look for missing parts. 18 mos. +
- Low toy shelf, I am proud to say I built this one on my own following the instructions found here. The low shelf gives the child the opportunity to see what is available. It is best if only a few appropriate activities are well organized on it. Birth +
- Olive wood spreader seen at a local store, great as a first knife, can be used to spread jam or anything else on a toast for snack. 12 mos. +
- Realistic fruit art, found at the Family Swap Meet (next one will be in the fall), these beautiful realistic images are ideal for the young child. These can be placed at their eye level anywhere in the house. Giving a wonderful opportunity for new vocabulary and story telling. Birth +
- Small corn brushes, found in small grocery store while traveling. Perfect for little hands to help clean vegetables. Children love to participate in the kitchen from a very young age. 12 mos. +
- Child size rocking chair, isn’t it gorgeous? Had to buy it at the Family Swap Meet (next one will be in the fall). Ideal for a quiet area in the home or bedroom, but not ideal for reading, the child should be stable to facilitate reading. 12 mos. +
- A basket with items to open and close, bought in different bargain stores or found around the house, placed in a small basket. These are used to refine fine-motor skills and eye hand coordination and an indirect preparation to independence. 10 mos. +
- A baby-focused nursery, please enjoy this video my husband and I made explaining the process of creating a baby-focused nursery. I had the pleasure of working with interior designer Rachel from mollieQuinn on this project. Birth +
*The appropriate age will depend on the child’s individual development and abilities as well as interest. These are all approximate ages; it is essential to follow your child’s needs by learning to observe them.
