12 Ages of Christmas

Eco

The 12 Ages of Christmas: 3-Year-Olds

Instead of the 12 days of Christmas, we're celebrating the ages and the toys that go along with them.

Instead of the 12 days of Christmas, we're celebrating the ages and the toys that go along with them. Keep an eye out for your age group as we tick along throughout the season!

On the third day of Christmas, yours truly gave to thee... an Early Rider ($159 and up) set of wheels! Born abroad in the UK, these swank bicycles have made their way across the pond. Tykerider let me take one of these wooden bad boys for a spin, and it did not disappoint. A cinch to assemble, my daughter was ready to rock and roll in just moments. Armed with her sassy helmet ($45), the cautious lil lass jumped onto the frame and took off down the driveway. Usually intimidated by anything that requires self-propelling, she continues to beg for bike time every day. While it lacks pedals or training wheels, it is the perfect starter bike to get tots used to the idea of spinning along and teaches them balance and motor skills. The thick tires provide excellent traction, and the sustainability of the wooden frame makes it an ecotot pleaser. As if it weren't cool enough on its own, the inscribed flames and the leather seat might make Fonzie pop out of the sky and ask for a scoot. Full disclosure: mom and dad have already tried!

Check out what we suggest for the other ages of Christmas!


Shopping

The 12 Ages of Christmas: 2-Year-Olds

Instead of the 12 days of Christmas, we're celebrating the ages and the toys that go along with them.
Pottery Barn Kids at ShopStyle

Instead of the 12 days of Christmas, we're celebrating the ages and the toys that go along with them. Keep an eye out for your age group as we tick along throughout the season!

On the second day of Christmas, yours truly gave to thee... a kitchen to whip up servings! Parents may think play kitchens are for lil gals only, but young men like to bake up cookies just as much as their female counterparts. Go for broke with a fancy shmancy modern set from Pottery Barn Kids ($580) or settle for a simple one that will surely provide just as much fun at a lower price. Add to the package with a grocery cart full of "food" and pots and pans. It won't be long until their tiny mitts have a place in mommy's real mixing bowl.

Check out what we suggest for the other ages of Christmas!

Shopping

The 12 Ages of Christmas: 1-Year-Olds

Instead of the 12 days of Christmas, we're celebrating the ages and the toys that go along with them.

Instead of the 12 days of Christmas, we're celebrating the ages and the toys that go along with them. Keep an eye out for your age group as we tick along throughout the season!

On the first day of Christmas, yours truly gave to thee... a wooden bead maze! Perfect for youngsters trying to wrap their wee brains around new concepts, this big block can help teach colors, letters and numbers while aiding in their motor skill development. Babies will find it fascinating while toddlers keep coming back for more. It is a gift that keeps on giving. While the price tag on this toy may result in a bit of sticker shock, one can take solace in the fact that it's essentially five toys wrapped up into one. Even better, the toys stay put so there's absolutely no cleanup required when playtime is over. There's a reason why most every kid-friendly store and doctor's office has some shape or form of this toy — it's a hit!