This is probably the easiest gift guide I will do this year. I just picked a few of our favorite things, both mine and Buggy’s, (who just turned two at the time of writing) that we have received or purchased in the last few years. So, easy!
Here is my collection of plastic-free, low-tech, ethically made, creativity- and fun-inspiring gifts for the babies and toddlers in your life. Batteries not included (or necessary! I’m a mom. I know you probably don’t want anything else that makes noise or lights up. At least I don’t!) Enjoy!
Here is my ethical gift guide for babies and toddlers:
1. 10,000 Villages Galimoto
Ok, This is our “gift of the year.” We’ve given out six this year. Buggy has been running it around our family room for as long as he has been able to walk. It is the only toy that lives in our family room. It is such a beautiful gift, with an inspiring story (and accompanying book). Every little one we’ve given it to has immediately started running around with it, and admiring the moving legs. And, every time I have brought it to a party, other parents and grandparents ask about it. It is a hit!
Ethically made in Kenya, supporting local artisans.
2. Hazel Village Juliette Doll
I have been admiring Hazel Village dolls from afar for years. They are just gorgeous, and like the Galimoto, are sure to also impress the parents. There are so many different beautiful dolls and animals, it was hard to pick just one, but I thought this little gal, with her party dress is perfectly festive! She comes wrapped in a handkerchief, and is sure to become heirloom status.
Made ethically in Brooklyn with organic cotton ad stuffed with hypoallergenic poly fill.
3. Plan Toys Wooden Fruits and Vegetables
We got something very similar to this for Buggy’s birthday last year, and it has been hours of fun. He is always making sandwiches, pizza, and telling us “I cut it.” The veggies are attached with velcro, so simulate actual cutting, help with hand-eye coordination, and are just so cute!
Made with ethically with reclaimed rubber wood in Thailand, by a company that takes sustainability as seriously as it does play!
4. Uncle Goose Planet Blocks
I love all of Uncle Goose blocks, but these ones are my favorites. My husband and father-in-law love space, so I picked these out so the three of them could talk about the planets, work on stacking and building, and admire how lovely they are (well… maybe that is just me).
Handmade in Michigan from fast-growing, sustainable basswood.
5. Burt’s Bees Fair Isle Jammies
We bought these for Buggy on his first Christmas, and have bought a pair every year since. They aren’t overly “Christmas-ey” so are cute all winter long. Organic cotton, great cozy fit, and just the cutest. They have men’s and women’s too, for a whole family gift. We are considering it this year…
Made ethically with organic cotton.
6. Tegu Magbot Magnetic Block Set
I can just imagine the creativity that would go into building with this little guy. I would just love to watch it!
Made in Honduras from sustainably sourced hardwood.
7. Nook Sleep Systems Lily Pad
I am not going to get into the ethical credentials of this little guy, but let me tell you, they are impressive (more here). We are a Nook Sleep Systems family, and have their crib mattress and the Lily Pad. Paired with a PlanToys play gym, and the tiniest ones will have a blast. We will probably be adding the Pebble Lounger to our collection soon (We love little chairs and this one is so much better than the embroidered ones you see at the mall and toy stores). I love this brand!
Ethically sourced with sustainable and recycled materials.
8. Green Toys Ferry Boat
Ok, I realize I said plastic-free, but I make an exception for Green Toys, as they are recycled, and the plastic is food grade – so the little ones can do what they’re gonna do and put them in their mouths. We have a few Green Toys boats and trucks. I love gifting and getting these. And they are dishwasher safe!!
All Green Toys are made from recycled plastic milk jugs, in the USA.
9. Wishbone 3in1 Balance Bike
We gave this to Buggy for his first birthday, and he has used it almost every day since. It is a bit of a splurge, but it is made well (both for quality and for its ethics), is super cute, and should last till your little one is about 5. When Buggy rode it on the boardwalk last year, someone said, “That is literally the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.” I had to agree.
Made with recycled plastic, in the USA.
10. Lotus Little Yoga Mat
Every time I get my yoga mat out, my little guy either runs to it, or climbs on me. Sometimes, he’ll get out the mat by himself and do a few poses. I’d love a little person sized one so we could practice together.
Made from TPA, a sustainable foam.
11. Green Pinata Subscription
Lastly, and quite possibly the most eco-friendly option on this whole list, is a Green Pinata toy rental subscription, for ages six months to five years. They deliver 4 toys every month, of age appropriate, mostly sustainably and ethically made safe, educational toys. If we didn’t already have so many toys, this would be an ideal option!
That’s it! Still not sure what we are getting our little one this year, aside from the jammies. I’d love to know what your thoughts are on what you are getting the little ones in your life! And any hints what we can get our little guy. At this point, he’s still pretty into the boxes, so we are probably going to go practical!
For my other gift guides, and some tips on staying mindful and ethical gift giving, take a look here.
