We all know what it’s like to get ants in our pants. Kids especially need to burn off their energy because they have so much of it. Some kids are just climbers, others could use a little help with coordination but nearly all kids just need to move. These gifts are perfect for just that!
1.Pikler Triangle I just found out about these within the last 2 years and they’ve fascinated me ever since! They’re perfect for climbers and can be used before your child can even walk. Additional attachments can be purchased like slides and more! I talk more about Pikler triangles here.
2.Toddler Slide If you decide against a Pikler and you want something a little more simple, you can’t go wrong with a slide. Kids love slides and no one says you can’t have one indoors!
3. DIY balance beam This year we’re asking Santa’s elves to make this beam and a Pikler for Christmas. I must say, the triangle is kind of complex to make but even I could make this balance beam! Balancing is a skill that must be mastered so why not make it fun?
4.Bilibo seats These versatile play objects are multi award winning and perfect for open ended play! The possibilities are nearly endless including rocking , hiding, spinning, standing on and more!
5.Balance board The balance boards were originally found in Waldorf schools but made their way into people’s homes. These are great for imaginative play, strength building and exercise. They can be used by children of all ages.
6.Mini trampoline It’s important for kids to stay active and this is the perfect pastime activity! My middle child loves to bounce and I’m here to tell you that this trampoline provides an exceptional energy-burning outlet for toddlers.
7.Gonge hilltops My girls got these for Christmas last year that they’ve been a hit ever since! They are one of the few things that get used every single day. Hilltops develop children’s ability to estimate distances and make them familiar with heights.
8.Pod swing These can be used indoors or outdoors but we plan to use it inside because my kiddos and I get some serious cabin fever (we have 8 months of snow). These hammock swings help develop a child‘s sense of balance and body awareness but at the same time can be used for relaxation.
9.Rock wall Our home is a child-centered zone. I want space for the kids to explore and have fun because why not?! Who says you can’t make a rock wall inside your house?
10.Bounce horse The only thing my oldest daughter wanted this year was a pony. She suggested a real one but we decided he or she would be too cold outside and too big to live inside so she decided to ask Santa for a “toy pony that she could ride on.”
11.Tunnel I don’t know what it is about tunnels but kids love them. They’re great for imaginative adventures. As a parent, I like these ones because they collapse down and store very easily!
12.Basketball hoop I’m going to be honest and say that we use the basketball hoop just as much as our girls do. There is something so satisfying about throwing a ball from across the living room and making it. Things get pretty heated between my husband and I but hey, the kids like it too. It’s a fun family activity!
13.Indoor play gym Also known as a Swedish wall, this play gym comes with it all- ropes, rings, climbing wall, ladder, ramp, swing. All of these features are great for climbing and coordination skills!
14.Sit n spin My girls love to spin… and spin and spin! They always end up smashing themselves off of things and getting hurt so with this sit n spin, at least they’re sitting down!
15.Indoor climbing dome These domes can be used outdoors but if you have the space, indoors too! They’re great for climbing and hours of fun!
xxoo Kate
Candidly Katelyn 