Holiday Shopping Guide from Dallas Moms Blog, Part 2

Yesterday we shared with you some of our unique finds for your husband or extended family with some local favorites and modern traditions.

Today we hope to continue our Holiday Shopping Guide by focusing on the kids– and a little something for the mamas!

If you’re anything like me, shopping for your kids “in the moment” can be difficult.

At various stages, you almost have to think a year ahead to what your children will be interested in 6 months from now. With a newborn, you usually gift clothes that will fit them when they’re a little bigger. For toddlers, you want to get them a gift that they’ll enjoy now but also won’t grow out of within the next few months.

With this in mind, our contributors are looking back and sharing gifts their kids enjoyed, as well as gifts they’re excited to purchase for the first time! Hopefully this helps put the wheels in motion to make your kids Christmas special!

Newborn – 18 mos

If you’ve walked past this at Buy Buy Baby or Babies ‘R Us, don’t judge the product by the package! We promise the Nosefrida: Nasal Aspirator might look gross, but it’s a miracle product! (And it’s really not as gross as it sounds!)

Aiden & Anias swaddle blankets are great…but as you’ve seen, Dallas Moms Blog loves LOCAL products! Luna Lullaby is based in Allen, TX and has an amazing selection of Soothing Blankets, nursing pillows, Tummy Time mats, as well as a variety of other products for baby. The best part is you no longer have to order them online! Luna Lullaby is now sold at Baby Bliss, A Tiny Hiney, and Lone Star Baby & Kids.

If your standard swaddles aren’t working, put a Miracle Blanket or Magic Sleepsuit under the tree!

Ages 18 mos – 3 years

Smile and Ride Buggy is such a fun gift for any toddler! Take it to the park, a walk around the neighborhood, or even use it in your home! It allows your child to honk a horn and turn a steering wheel all the while giving you the control. (wink)

The Little Tikes Cozy Coupe has been around for 30 years, and there’s a reason it’s still a favorite among parents. It’s great for indoor or outdoor use and always fun for toddlers to play in! If you already have a Cozy Coupe, add the optional trailer under the tree!

Books! Children love books! Check out a few of these Bedtime or Texas-themed books you might want to add to your collection!

Ages 3 & Up

Get your kids outdoors with a Mini Ogodisk Super Disk Set! Think old-school Velcro Tennis Ball Catch, but updated and capable of doing so much more! It can catch and throw a ball up to 150′, can become a throwing disc on its own, and won’t sink in water for pool sports. We love that this is great for all Texas seasons!

Clearly ride-on’s are a popular gift for children under the age of 6! Another popular purchase among our contributors is the Mini Kick Scooter. Great for children who aren’t quite ready to balance on two wheels, but gives them the “big kid” feel.

Here’s a gift that is not only great for your kids, but will allow you a little free time. Highlights Magazine (Yup! The one you used to see at the doctor’s office) is still around and just as fun as ever! Their latest magazine High Five is great for kids ages 2-6, and with a subscription will provide a entertainment all year long.

Ages 6 & Up

Although there’s not currently a store in Dallas, The Land of Nod (based out of Chicago) has a great selection of unique toys; especially for older ones! One of my favorites is the Top Secret Spy Kit. This includes a fingerprinting kit, spy glasses, and code cards– all great for imaginative play.

Do you remember the days of Potholder Looms and friendship bracelets? Well, they’re back! Once again, toy manufacturers are taking old school ideas and making them new again. We’d be surprised if your older one hasn’t asked you for a Rainbow Loom, but just in case it’s slipped off your radar, here’s a reminder!

The Expectant Mom

Although this might not be unique, it’s definitely wanted! Any expectant mom would probably love a gift certificate for a prenatal massage! We can highly recommend La Bella Belly Pregnancy Spa in East Dallas and Hiatus at Lovers Lane.

Not sure if they’d feel comfortable with a full body massage? Still provide a little relaxation with Reflexology or a Pedicure! YaYa Foot Spa on Lovers Lane or in Bishop Arts comes highly recommended for reflexology, as well as Happy Foot in Richardson!

Products You Can’t Go Wrong With:

• Mama Mio Tummy Rub
• Jessica Simpson Maternity Skinny Leg Jeans at Motherhood Maternity
• Thieves Oil by Young Living

What Do We Want Under the Tree?

So, what do moms want for Christmas? Here’s a little sampling of what our contributors will be asking for. Perhaps this will help your husbands with some gift-giving ideas!

Becky – A kid-free getaway!

Simple Texas destinations like Lakeway Resort and Spa can be inexpensive and easy, but still provide the adult environment you’re looking for!

Katy – A family photo session

If you’d like to do the same, we can recommend Ryan O’Dowd Photography, Kate Love Photography, Haley B Photography and Photo Jewels Photography!

Laura – A weekly maid

Jenny – Vitamix Juice Blender

No one said anything about it being realistic!

Bethany – A spa day

Krystal – The Home. T

Do you have suggestions? What did we miss?