Fawn's Top 10 Must-Have Items for Babies & Kids
January 30, 2023
If you’ve ever needed to reach out to Toki Mats for customer service, it’s likely that you’ve spoken to Fawn Triana. As the head of customer support, Fawn is exactly the level-headed, ultra-sweet person you want to help you through any problem. She’s a mom of three kids, Ella, Liv, and Alex, and loves to spend her free time reading, thrifting, and watching her athletic kids play sports. Although she was born in San Diego, California, Fawn currently lives in Washington, where she and her family enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Because her kids are ages 13, 11, and 8, Fawn is no stranger to raising little ones, and she’s a big fan of simplicity. Here’s her list of must-have items for babies and kids, including products that grow with your children instead of taking up space and gathering dust.
1. Toki Mats Everywhere Mat
A play mat unlike any other, this latex foam mat is crafted for comfort and durability. Made from natural plant latex, this mat’s core is 1” of soft, springy foam that’s as comfortable as it is supportive. A waterproof cover made from water-based, microfiber PU leather makes it super easy to wipe clean, while the modular build and carry handle make this mat fully portable to take anywhere.
“Although my kids are not ‘little’ anymore, we use our mat all the time for sleepovers and to put inside my son’s air fort!”
2. The Wishing Elephant Tees & Pullovers
These clothes use high-quality materials and feature unique designs that celebrate the magic of childhood. Soft, cozy, and stylish, these clothes are made in infant, toddler, and youth sizes
“Soft and cozy with the cutest designs. My kids basically live in them.”
3. Wet Brush Kids Detangler
This detangling brush uses ultra soft, flexible bristles that glide through tangles with ease to minimize pain and protect against split ends and breakage. The kid-friendly size features an ergonomic grip that’s easy to hold in small hands.
“The only hair brushes my girls with thick, wavy/curly hair will use!”
4. Legos
Legos are a classic toy that provides endless fun for both children and adults of all ages. These construction toys build multiple physical skills like hand-eye coordination and bilateral integration. Playing with Legos can also have a relaxing effect and help children focus on a task for an extended period of time.
“The only thing that will keep my 8-year old engaged for HOURS.”
5. Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Tumbler
This stainless steel tumbler helps little ones stay hydrated with water that stays cold for up to 7 hours without any ice. A flip straw pops up with one motion so your little one can use it on their own. When not in use, the straw snaps tightly in place to stay fully leakproof and prevent mess.
“We love these tumblers with their flip tops and handles! We take our water bottles everywhere!”
6. Amazon Echo Dot
This smart speaker is voice-controlled with Alexa and can be used to check the news, listen to music, get information, and more with simple voice commands. When paired with compatible smart home devices, you can use it to control your smart plugs and thermostat.
“We have these in every room. They’re perfect for each kid to listen to their music and set timers and alarms.”
7. Evie Pearl Handmade Hair Clips & Scrunchies
This mama-owned shop sells ultra-cute hair accessories for stylish kiddos. Unique, colorful, and made with love, these clips and scrunchies are perfect for everyday wear.
“We love these for clipping and pulling back hair and bangs for sports, and my girls love a soft scrunchie to keep on their wrist at all times!”
8. Magna-Tiles
This magnetic building toy is beloved by children and parents alike. Perfect for creative, open-ended play, these tiles help children build an interest in STEM subjects, and learn shape recognition, patterns, visualization, color recognition, teamwork, and cooperation skills.
“All my kids love to build with them, and we’ve had ours for years.”
9. aden + anais Muslin Swaddle Blankets
These lightweight, breathable swaddle blankets are crafted from soft, high quality muslin and are as beautiful as they are comfortable, The thin but durable fabric is perfect for keeping baby covered but cool in the summer months.
“Still one of my go-to baby gifts, and the ones my kids had as babes are in our keepsake boxes.”
10. Squishmallows
These colorful, adorable plush toys are fun to look at and cuddle. Large and super soft, they function as a toy or a pillow for stress-relieving squeezes and comforting snuggles. Each Squishmallow plush has its own name and bio so your kids can get to know their favorite toy’s personality.
“All three of my kids are obsessed with them! Soft and cuddly, and so many fun ones to choose from. Shoutout to Cornelias the Corn, my sons current favorite!”
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Blooms Vegan Leather Mat
$225 - $325
Meet the perfect play mat for your baby’s tummy time or toddler’s playtime! Our vegan leather mats are super comfy, easily portable, and waterproof for both indoor and outdoor use.
Shop NowAbout the Author: Alice
Alice Mendoza is a copywriter and blog writer based in Los Angeles. She began writing for a baby brand while on maternity leave, and realized she had found her niche. Today, she writes exclusively within the baby space, using her BFA in Creative Writing and her own experience as a mother to guide her. When she’s not working, you can find her chasing down her toddler, going on walks around the neighborhood, or watching reality TV.