Toddlers grow at a fast rate and sometimes it surprises parents at how much their children have grown. Two of the things that must keep up the pace are toddler clothes and toys. Here are some points to consider when shopping for your toddler:
Go Large!
Your child may look funny in slightly bigger clothes but this can only mean that the toddler clothing that you buy will last for quite longer than you thought they would. Toddlers grow horizontally and vertically and their clothes have to keep up with that too. Get bigger sizes if you can for clothes that they have to wear every day.
Hit the Second Hand Stores
If you really need to buy clothes for your toddler, consider going to second hand stores and surplus shops. Find out if you have consignment stores in your area and you can swap old baby clothes to get new ones or a gift check equivalent. Try to look for a mothers club or a toddlers group. Maybe you can organize a clothes swap with them. Surely the moms would love to have new clothes for their growing toddlers!
This can also work for toys for toddlers. Usually, the toddlers will lose interest in their toys easily so it is better to have them swapped with other kids’ toys or just buy second hand toys. If it is possible, you can do away with buying new toys altogether and just stick to the toys that are given as gifts.
Invest in the Important Items
While it is good to find bargains on toddler clothing, sometimes you have to spend a little bit more on big ticket items. It is worth paying extra for a good pair of jeans or a warm jacket. Make sure that you get good quality material for these types of toddler clothing so that they can last for a long time. Bonus: you can keep these if you are planning to have more kids in the future!
Patterns and Colors
Consider buying toddler clothing that have bold patterns so that it is easier to hide stains and other clothing damages due to rough play and toddler activities. However, try to get clothes that have basic colors so that it will be easier for you to mix and match for different occasions.
Easy On and Off
Consider buying clothes that are easy for your toddler to get on and off. These should not have too many buttons or ribbons to tie. This way, your child can focus more on the task of dressing him/herself in the future, and not get too frustrated if s/he cannot fasten buttons, zippers, or bows.
Age Appropriate Toys
Your child will definitely want toys. Toddler toys are great to have and if you plan on buying them some for special occasions, make sure that they are age appropriate. Consider consulting your pediatrician or your child’s teacher for recommendations.
