Toddler

Photo by Momof3cuties

Last year, Santa completely failed my daughter. Santa didn't start early enough or have the energy to really "do it up." Not that it mattered—my daughter was just one and she really didn't understand what was happening. But this year, she got it. She knew that "Ho ho" was coming down the chimney and was going to fill her stocking with toys. Good thing Santa was prepared. He delivered a handmade wood stove, along a cooking pot, an apron, and some felt fruits and veggies. My daughter was over the moon.

What was your toddler's favorite present? Was it the one you thought it would be?

Photo by 3lilmonsters411

Toddlers often lack gracious gift receiving etiquette: saying aloud that they dislike gifts, tossing clothing gifts to the side, or refusing to say "thank you."

Today MrsManners gives us some tips and guidance for teaching and encouraging appropriate responses to presents received from family and friends.

If you have a child with special needs on your holiday gift-buying list, these shopping tips from a mom who's "been there" will help.

This week in Special Needs Living, CafeMom aurorabunny, mom to 3-year old Brody, who has autism, offers 5 tips for picking out the perfect toy for the special kids on your list.

Photo from Amazon.com

If I have to hear about Zhu Zhu Pets one more time! It seems every kid wants one this year, and I just don't get it. It's a hamster on wheels, people!

(But then again I have enough residual childhood pet hamster trauma to last a lifetime.)

Is your child mad for Zhu Zhu Pets this holiday season?

Photo from MOMA Store

The festival of lights—and potato latkes—starts today. If you're still in the market for a new menorah—this one is made from a recycled motherboard and uses eco-friendly LED lights so your toddler can partake in lighting it and you won't have to worry about an open flame. Roni Kabessa LED Motherboard Menorah, $25 at MOMA Store ($20 for members).

HAPPY HANUKKAH!

Related posts:

5 Great, Green Gifts for Toddlers

Chanukah: A Festival of Potato Latkes