Eli's Top 10 Must-Have Items for Babies & Kids

Eli Yonas isn’t your average person. As a mother of three young children under 9, she’s also the founder and CEO of Toki Mats, a rapidly growing brand known for having the safest, most functional, highest-quality play mats on the market. Oh, and she also works full time in tech. Although she was born in Los Angeles, Yonas moved her family to a small suburb in Israel, where she manages to maintain her career and run her own business—all remotely. Despite having a very full plate (really, it’s overflowing), she’s a master at juggling, giving her work and family 110%, and still finding time to always travel. On the weekends, she loves playing the card game SET with her husband and three children, Noah, Shaya,and Boaz. When asked what she wishes she had more time for, her answer was an understandable one: sleep. Since Yonas is an expert on all things babies and kids, we asked her to compile a list of must-haves, so we could share them here with you.

1. Doona Car Seat & Stroller

This all-in-one travel system features a revolutionary design that provides a safe and practical solution for life on the go. A car seat and stroller combo, the Doona has unique hybrid functionality and has been tested to meet the strictest standards for safety.

“SO easy! The best for transferring a sleeping baby in and out of a car without waking them up, and so, so good for traveling.” 

2. Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance Soft

This is a lightweight baby bouncer made from ultra soft cotton and quick-drying mesh. The ergonomic design supports the back, neck, and head, while the bouncer’s natural rocking has a comforting effect on babies. Because they’ll be able to eventually learn to control the rocking, the bouncer stimulates their balance and motor skills. 

“All three of my kids were obsessed with this. It always soothed them and put them to sleep.”

3. Keekaroo Peanut Changer

This waterproof changing pad has a strong outer shell that makes cleanup super easy and limits bacteria growth or deterioration. Although the material is crack and puncture resistant, this changing pad is soft to the touch and ultra comfortable for babies. 

“The one place you need easy clean up. This was our favorite diaper changing station.”

4. Toki Mats Play Mats

These play mats are unlike any others. Made from natural latex foam, rather than polyurethane foam, the mats are uniquely springy, responsive, and ultra comfortable. They’re designed to be portable, folding and storing easily in their carry case. A removable cover makes them easy to clean, while all natural materials make them super safe for even the youngest of babies. 

“We've been using our Tokis since day one with our babies, and even now in the playroom with my oldest, who's 8! Lasts forever.”

5. Little Sleepies Zippies

Crafted from a custom-milled blend of bamboo viscose called Lunaluxe, these zippies are buttery soft and extra gentle on sensitive skin. The unique design of this sleepwear utilizes foldover cuffs on the wrists and ankles to grow with your baby for longer wear.

“My newborns lived in these onesies for the first month straight. Nothing else touched their bodies, and they easily go from day to night!”

6. Solly Baby Wrap

These wraps are made from lightweight TENCEL Modal fabric that is stretchy, silky soft, and eco-friendly. The soft fabric is comforting on your baby’s skin and ultra breathable to prevent overheating, while the stretchy material helps achieve a snug and secure fit.  

“I'm such a fan of baby wearing, but it took me until my second kid to really become a pro. By my third, I would have the wrap tied to me at all times because I used it so often.”

7. Stokke Flexi Bath

This foldable baby bath is suitable for newborn babies and children up to four years. The lightweight, portable design allows it to fold flat for easy storage when not in use, while a non-slip base and heat-sensitive plug help keep your little ones safe. 

“We used this to save water, do bathtime quicker, and keep the baby supported while the bigger kids bathed around him.”

8. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib

Traveling has never been easier with this lightweight travel crib. Safe and simple, this crib can be set up in one movement, and the comfy mattress makes it a cozy place to sleep wherever your baby goes. Weighing only 13 lbs with no loose parts that need to be attached, this crib is easy to move around your home and convenient for travel. 

“So light and simple. Just the easiest crib to travel with, and so easy to store away. I made my parents get one for sleepovers at their place!” 

9. MiracleBaby Miracle Blanket

This swaddle’s simple design makes it easy to get the perfect swaddle every time. Made from an ultra soft cotton knit, it’s breathable enough to be used in warm climates, and still warm enough for cooler places. It has just enough stretch to absorb your baby’s movements, but not enough to loosen the fit.

“The best, best swaddle. No velcro, no fancy folding, just wrap your baby like a burrito and mine never escaped (even the crazy ones).”

10. Baby Briefcase Document Organizer

This plastic briefcase organizes all baby-related paperwork in one place, so you never lose track of anything important, from their birth certificate to equipment warranties.

“I still use these to organize my kids’ lives. They are so simple and so handy.”