Once in a while, we come across a guest Expert who has something impactful to contribute to the Savvy Auntie Community. Dana Rosenbloom, M.S. Ed, is owner and therapist at Dana's Kids, a group dedicated to providing support and education for families with both typically-developing children, as well as those with special needs, who are struggling with developmental challenges. Here Dana shares some wonderful developmentally age-appropriate gift suggestions to spoil your nieces and nephews!

When I came to Savvy Aunthood, my goal as an aunt was to be a resource for my big brother and sister-in-law and to spoil my nephew rotten with fun, but developmentally-appropriate toys. Toys that are developmentally appropriate are designed keeping in mind the way in which children develop, reach milestones, and learn. They take into account different learning styles and needs, as well as children’s strengths and interests. For the purpose of this article, I’ve chosen items I’ve found to be most popular with children whether they are boys or girls, are typically developing or have special needs.

Infants and Babies: They learn about the world through their senses, so items for this age need to smell, taste, look and sound appealing.

Under $25: I recommend musical instruments and “lovies.” Musical instruments that are light in weight and can be held easily by infants and babies (think maracas and rain sticks), introduce the concept of cause and effect. “Lovies” give children a sense of safety and security, and help them learn to self-soothe.

Under $50: A Boppy is the perfect choice. You can buy them with dozens of slipcover fabrics to match the baby’s room décor. A Boppy starts out as supports for feeding, but can be used in so many different ways I’d be hard pressed to list them all! 

Under $100: Buy a Gymini! This is a great spot for working on tummy time. It also supports babies as they start reaching for the hanging items. An attachable mirror and kick-started music encourage learning and exploration, as well.

Splurge-Worthy: Buy whatever stroller the parents-to-be have registered for. A stroller will grow with your niece or nephew and make them mobile enough to go out and experience the world…and come visit their Savvy Auntie, of course!

Perfect for one-year-olds: Completing the first year of life deserves a present, right?!

Under $25: Rubber blocks are easy to stack and a blast to knock down, two concepts children are working on at this stage.

Under $50: A set of Melissa and Doug wooden puzzles is perfect for aunties who are looking to spend a little more, but are still on a budget. Puzzles support hand-eye coordination and the pieces make a great noise when you bang them together! 

Under $100: I recommend a baby doll (yes, even for boys) and a doll stroller or shopping cart. Children at this age are beginning to be more social, can engage in pretend play and like to feed, cuddle and walk with their babies.

Splurge-Worthy: Finally, a favorite of mine, though not an official “splurge,” is the Radio Flyer Walker. This is a great item for toddlers learning to take their first steps and can be used indoors and out. The walker is sturdy and supports children’s physical development, while also encouraging pretend play.  If you want to bulk up the splurge-factor, fill it with the other items on the list before you wrap it!

For Two-Year-Old Tots: At two-years-old, children have better control over their fine motor muscles, have more language, and are beginning to be able to use their imaginations during play.

Under $25:  Bristle blocks are great for encouraging dexterity and hand strength, while also supporting creative play and building skills.

Under $50: The Fisher Price farm fits the bill. This long-time favorite introduces animals and animal sounds, and gives children a platform for pretend play centering on farm life. Sing “Old MacDonald’s Farm” to further enrich language learning.

Under $100: I recommend a tabletop easel, finger crayons, and Do-a-Dot markers. As far as I am concerned, open-ended art exploration is essential for all children. I particularly love that this easel has two sides so you can both be busy and chatting about what you are working on. Art activities allow children to be creative, use their imagination, and practice pre-writing skills.

Splurge-Worthy: Perhaps the easiest pick for me, out of all of the gifts on this list is the splurge-worthy two-year-old present…a pretend kitchen and play food. Your niece or nephew will love cooking lunch for their favorite Savvy Auntie, pretend babies, and stuffed animals. A kitchen set is the ultimate opportunity for working on language, cognitive, creative and social skills. 

I must admit, being Aunt Dana is second to none. The smiles I get from my little monkey fill my heart. I hope this list of gifts will bring hours of educational, fun, creative, and developmentally appropriate play for both you and your niece or nephew. There is no better gift that you can give your niece or nephew than your love and presence in their lives. Enjoy them and spoil them with the best of everything!

For more information on Dana Rosenbloom and Dana's Kids, friend them on Facebook.
Or follow them on Twitter @DJRkids.

By Dana Rosenbloom, M.S. Ed
Published: April 24, 2011