Becoming a mom changes everything, and when you officially enter the toddler stage, it’s a whole new world! Now that I have a 2- and 4-year-old, I can confidently say that the baby registry days are long gone. Toddlers have completely different needs, and honestly, people don’t talk enough about the real new mom must-haves for toddlers that make daily life smoother.
As a first-time mom, I’ve done a lot of research (and plenty of trial and error). So if you’re entering this stage, here’s my honest, mom-tested list of new Mom must-haves for toddlers that you’ll actually use.
1. Lots (and Lots) of Arts & Craft Supplies
If there’s one thing I underestimated, it’s how much toddlers love creating. One of the biggest new Mom must-haves for toddlers is a well-stocked craft bin. I opt for the premade packages like this from Amazon that includes markers, paint, paper, etc. Something like this Animal Craft kid for $20 on Amazon is a great one to have on hand.
At ages two and four, creativity is nonstop in our house. Having arts and craft supplies ready to go saves me during long afternoons, rainy days, or when everyone is feeling restless. It’s also one of the most underrated toddler must-haves because it encourages independent play, which, let’s be honest, every mom needs sometimes. Pro tip: Make everything washable. Trust me.
2. Fun Bath Time Essentials
Bath time used to be just about getting clean. Now? It’s an experience. Fun bath toys are absolutely on my list of new Mom must-haves for toddlers. Foam letters, stacking cups, color-changing toys, and bubble bath can turn a meltdown into the best part of the day. For toddlers, transitions can be tough. Making bath time something they look forward to instead of resist makes evenings smoother. And when you have more than one toddler, anything that keeps both entertained in one place is gold. Fun bath gear easily earns its spot among essential toddler must-haves.
I love these bath color fizzies and this is also a great kit for toddlers 1-3!
3. Cute (and Functional) Towels for Toddlers
Before having toddlers, I didn’t realize how important towels could be. But hooded towels with their favorite animals or characters? Game changer. Cute towels are one of those surprisingly helpful new Mom must-haves for toddlers because they make post-bath routines easier. My kids actually want to wrap up and dry off. It turns a potentially chaotic moment into something cozy and sweet. Something like this one from Target is perfect and under $10.
It may seem small, but these little upgrades make a big difference in daily routines.
4. Snack Containers (Because Toddlers Are Always Hungry)
If I had to name the most used item in my house, it would be snack containers. Toddlers are basically tiny humans fueled entirely by snacks.
Leak-proof, easy-open containers are absolute new Mom must-haves for toddlers. Whether you’re at home, in the car, or running errands, having snacks prepped and ready prevents meltdowns before they start. I always have a pre-made snack kit in my car because it always comes in handy. I love these ones from Amazon that have 4 different containers and come in fun colors!
5. A Big Calendar
I love my big calendar because it keeps me and the whole family organized. When you hit the toddler phase, they get busier. Jules is in dance and there’s activities for their school so I love having a big calendar that I can mark the important dates in so we don’t forget. This one is under $8 and goes until June of 2027.
The toddler stage is loud, busy, creative, emotional, and incredibly sweet. But it’s also very different from the baby phase, and the gear you need changes too. These everyday essentials have made life with my 2- and 4-year-old so much easier. And while every child is different, having the right new Mom must-haves for toddlers in your home can truly transform your daily routine.
Toddlerhood is an adventure, and with the right tools, it’s a really fun one. For more new mom must-haves, visit my blog everydaywithcassie.com.
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