A lot of babies in my life are turning 1 y.o. soon! Any gift ideas that work for that tender age—but maybe also suggestions that are great for parents too?

Question

Sarah · Answer

US Savings Bonds as a baby gift: Ok so this isn't as fun as it was in the 1980s where you get an actual bond certificate like this slipped in your birthday card:

But I still think it's funny and delightful to give a baby a savings bond. Practical and very rich great aunt coded. Babies don't need any more things!

Amy · Answer

The Babies and Kitties Book (Molly Woodward): This was a favorite at our house! Babies and toddlers love to see pictures of other babies. There was one page that my daughter kissed every time we read it. 🥹

Sophia Lucchesi · Answer

YOTO: The Yoto Player is an amazing gift for kids 0-12: it’s basically a screen-free book reader. You have to purchase cards for the player, but they have everything from music for very little kids to Harry Potter audiobooks for big kids. I have friends whose 11 year olds listen to longer books on it, and my sister’s almost two year old twins are obsessed.

seán patrick john paul george ringo doran · Answer

BugView 5x Magnifier /// Carson Optical: “…[T]his tool combines a high-quality magnifier with an easy-to-use capture mechanism, allowing users to safely and effectively observe insects up close.”

seán patrick john paul george ringo doran · Answer

BigEye 2x Magnification Oversized /// Carson Optical: “Its scratch-resistant lens ensures durability and clarity, while the ergonomic handle provides comfort during extended use. Ideal as a STEM tool for kids, it encourages hands-on learning and curiosity.”

Casson · Answer

SpinAgain - Fat Brain Toys: Colorful, playful and good for coordination.

Natasha Feldman · Answer

Board Books!: We love The Animal Orchestra series, Some Bugs and Dear Zoo!! Must be a board book!!

Emily Copp · Answer

Play Sink: These are INCREDIBLE. Pro tip to pass along to the parents: put the baby and the full play sink in an empty bathtub or shower and you basically have a free babysitter for two hours.