What are stocking fillers and how can you make this work with your baby?
Stocking fillers are small gifts that you put in a Christmasstocking and give to your loved ones at Christmas. When it comes to babies, things are a little different: they don't need any large gifts but small practical things that can be useful in the first few months. Maybe small accessories that make caring for the baby easier and feeding him/her more comfortable.
This way, a tradition intended for older children, becomes a lovely way to spoil your baby with small, practical gifts.
Safe and fun gifts for babies up to one year old
Safe and fun gifts for babies up to one year old are primarily toys that promote development and help with the daily routine. It could be a soft cuddly toy that is easy to hold and doesn't include any detachable parts. Teething rings made from a safe material can help reduce pain when the baby's teeth are coming through. They comfort the baby when he/ she is restless.
Small care products such as a soft brush or a nail set for babies are nice gifts that parents can use straight away. A teat or a nice baby bottle is also a useful gift. If you choose products without harmful substances and with a gentle drinking flow, such as Difrax bottles, you are safe. All our products comply with European CE safety standards. Always choose products that contribute to a feeling of comfort, peace and relaxing moments together.
Suggestions for sensory and developmental gifts
Sensory gifts help your baby discover the world step by step. This can be done with soft sensory books with many different textures so that your baby can see how different materials feel.
Even rattles that make a soft sound are a good choice: they stimulate the hearing without making too much noise. A set of stacking cups or rings promotes fine motor skills and encourages your baby to grab, feel and construct.
Toys with lights, sounds or movement help your baby focus his/her attention on an object. This type of toy is not only fun but also contributes to your baby's development.
Practical gifts that the parents can also enjoy
Practical gifts are what the parents appreciate the most since they use them daily. Think muslin cloths: these soft cloths are very versatile. They always come in handy during feeding times, bath time or play time.
Teats or an extra bottle are also appreciated. However, always choose materials and bottles made from safe materials. Care products such as a soft comb, bath thermometer or a nail set will always come in handy. A set of bibs or a practical storage box for dummies is another thing that help keep things organized.
Such gifts are not only practical but also give parents the feeling that you are with them in this stressful, new phase.
Gift ideas for every budget
For every budget, there are fun and practical gifts to be found for the babies. Fun gifts for a small budget include muslin cloths, a soft cuddly toy, a bite ring or a set of bibs.
For a slightly bigger budget, there are extra baby bottles, a nice teat, a grooming set with maybe a hair brush and nail clippers. For people with a medium budget, there are also toys that stimulate the senses such as a rattle or a sensory book.
Do you wish to spend even more? Then you may want to consider complete sets of bottles or grooming sets, sustainable cuddly toys or toys that follow along with the baby's development. This may include wooden building blocks or blocks from soft materials such as foam. This way, you can always find a gift that is suitable for the baby and that the parents also can use.
What should you think about when choosing safe baby toys?
When choosing safe baby toys, it is important to pay attention to materials, age indication and finish. Always choose gifts that are free from harmful materials and are suitable for the age of the child.
Avoid gifts with small components that can detach or be swallowed and make sure to check that the toy is securely constructed. Toys made from soft materials without sharp edges are ideal as are products that are easy to keep clean.
Also check whether your gift is appropriate for the baby's development, so that it is safe to play with. You can also choose a gift that is going to be useful. Take a look at the baby products from Difrax. Have your got questions about our products? Please feel free to contact us.