Our TOP items are enjoyed by parents and kids over and over again, making them wonderfully thoughtful gifts.
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1. QUALITY HARDWOOD HIGHCHAIR WITHOUT THE STOKKE PRICE!
Best highchairs on the market.
Great gift for the family or perfect for feeding grandchildren during visits at your home. The EURO HIGHCHAIR II grows with baby and is a better value than Stokke! It's a highchair for baby, a booster for toddlers, and a chair for teens! Offered exclusively from One Step Ahead, this hardwood chair supports kids from 18-150 lbs. - an unbeatable value!
Its thoughtful design allows kids to slide up close to the table. Includes a removeable safety bar, five-point harness, anti-skid feet, and built-in stabilizers. Seat cushion included.
Before you buy a less sturdy look-a-like, check the weight max. Stokke is $100 more expensive and does not include a seat pad or restraint which must be purchased separately for over $30 (making Stokke $130 more expensive). Offered in a natural finish.
If you don't need the restraint, there's a new less expensive model called the EURO HIGHCHAIR II GROW WITH ME CHAIR. This chair has the same specification as the EURO HIGHCHAIR II but only includes a cushion, no restraint is included.
Available in natural finish. For use when baby is sitting up through teen years.
2. HEALTH & TRAVEL SOLUTIONS
These items make taking care of little ones a whole lot easier.
Want an easy and fullproof way to take your grandbaby's temperature? With the MUSICAL PACIFIER THERMOMETER baby won't even know you're taking her temperature.
This digital thermometer/pacifier provides a clinically-accurate reading within 90 seconds! Soothing to a fussy baby, it can monitor a child's temperature every five minutes for up to 25 minutes. Plays a gentle lullaby when fever exceeds 99.5 degrees.
With an orthodontic nipple and a self-contained battery that's sealed for safety.
Is your grandchild potty training (or getting ready to)? Skip the messy potty seat and use a toilet seat that works for everyone in the family!
The FAMILY SEAT POTTY SEAT is an innovative toilet seat that has a built-in child's insert that disappears into the lid when not in use. Perfect for when your toilet training grandchild comes to visit. Fits in so snugly, guests won't even know it's there.
Available in white Plastic or premium MDF wood in White or Antique Pine. 5-minute assembly; fits standard round toilets. For ages 2 and up.
Wouldn't it be great to have a nasal aspirator that actually works? The NASAL CLEAR aspirator is the only one that really works!
When it comes to your sick grandbaby, manual nasal aspirators don't measure up. They're invasive, inefficient - and they make already stuffy babies even more uncomfortable. That's why this ingenious electronic aspirator is worth its weight in gold. It suctions so effectively, you barely touch it to baby's nostrils, and before he can squirm, you're done! It even plays distracting songs.
You'll congratulate yourself for buying it every time you use it...and your grandchild's parents will be most grateful for this gift. With see-thru collection cup and two soft tips.
Do your grandchildren travel? Are their parents looking for a backpack carrier? One Step Ahead offers a Kelty quality back pack without the Kelty price.
Introducing KANGAKID!
It's incredibly lightweight and comfy for both of you (the frame is internal - no exterior bars or supports). And it offers so much storage space, it replaces your diaper bag! So compact, it's allowed on most airlines. Supports up to 33 lbs.
Be ready for anything: add the fold-away Sunroof with Rain Shield (sold separately).
Before you buy the more expensive Kelty brand, compare the difference in value!
Kelty is $40-$100 more expensive (depending on model).
3. BEST SNACK SOLUTIONS
These items are best for snacking without mess.
With Juice Box Buddies there's no more spurting and spilling juices!
Everyone loves take-along juices, but one little squeeze can squirt juice onto carpets, car upholstery--everywhere!
These hard-to-find juice holders neatly contain most types of juice boxes and pouches, and kids squeeze the handles...not the juice!
And how about snacks on-the-go? The absolute best solution is the SNACK TRAP!
No more spilled snacks! Tired of chasing Cheerios®? Now you can let your grandchild wander the house, snack in hand. The spill-proof Snack-Trap keeps munchies from tipping and spilling (keeps snacks clean, too!). Tots love it: the soft, split lid tickles little fingers. 7 oz. Assorted colors and patterns. So popular, there's an Accessories Pack, with extra snack-trap lid, sippy cup lid, and stay-fresh travel lid. For ages 1 and up.
How about a neat and easy way to keep snacks, drinks, and toys within your child's reach AND your car clutter-free at the same time? The SIDE RIDER does just that! It keeps travel toys, snacks, and drinks close...and passengers happy!
These pop-open "saddlebags" clip to baby's car seat or booster, stashing toys within reach--and keeping back seats neat. Each pouch holds up to 5 lbs. with a mesh side for easy viewing. Heavy-duty clips included. Two per pack.
Have you ever needed to eat on the run?
The SNACK RACK makes it easy when kids need to eat on the run too! Eat neat in the back seat — no more spilled snacks or dropped drinks! This smart snack tray clamps to the car window, keeping food steady and hands free. With drink holder and covered sandwich compartment. Adjustable and removable.
4. SAFETY SOLUTIONS
Here are some things that help keep grandkids safe.
And what about monitoring your grandchild while they play outside? Or how about monitoring who knocks at the door while you're making dinner in the kitchen?
Baby monitors have gone high-tech and do a lot more then just let you monitor children in their bedroom! MOBICAM'S ULTRA WIRELESS BABY MONITOR's high-resolution monitor not only delivers crisp, quality sound and images - even in darkness - it lets you add a second camera (if you want). Adjustable lens with extra-wide viewing angle.
And what if you want to monitor more than one location or record your nanny or babysitter?
MOBICAM HANDHELD is the solution! A monitor so high-tech, you can add a second camera! Not only does this portable color monitor feature crisp 2.4 Ghz technology, its infrared camera lets you view baby even in total darkness. Want to monitor your caregiver? Hook it to your TV or VCR (A/V cable included). Have an older child? Add a second indoor camera, or a unique, weather-resistant outdoor one!
All cameras have adjustable eyes, optional wall mounts, and a 300 ft. transmission range. There's even a thoughtful "sleep mode" that springs to life when sound is detected; you set the sound sensitivity. Each component includes an A/C adaptor or takes 4 AA batteries (sold separately).
Let parents relax while their child naps in one of your bedrooms. You can even monitor two rooms simultaneously. OneStepAhead's DIGITAL MULTI-ROOM MONITOR includes TWO transmitters, a hard-to-find feature that's ideal for two-child families. Switch between rooms manually, or let the eight-second auto-scan do it for you. Advanced 2.4 GHz digital technology provides crisp, clear sound; 14-channel operation ensures a private, secure transmission. With an impressive 900 foot transmission range, volume control, and sound lights, so you can see as well as hear baby's cry. Portable receiver includes belt clip and rechargeable battery unit.
What about keeping track of your grandchild at the park, playground, mall, or backyard? It's all too easy to lose hold of their hand in a crowd, or lose track of him among clothing racks.
That's why the KID KEEPER is a must for adventurous kids! Very secure, with comfy padded shoulder straps. The detachable strap adjusts from 2'-3.5', and the waist adjusts from 14"-25.5" to fit explorers of all sizes.
This is an absolute must for any grandparent. With the SITTER INFO STATION, you'll have all the information you need while babysitting your grandkids - all neatly posted on your fridge. With this 15"L x 11"W magnetic organizer, you'll always know how to reach mom and dad...which emergency numbers to call...even your grandchild's bedtime, favorite snack, and medication schedule. You don't have to write the same information week after week, because the ink stays put until you wipe it off. Washable, erasable pen included. Buy one for yourself and one for the parents too, that way you'll be ready to babysit at your home or theirs.
5. BEST SANDBOXES AND ACTIVITY TABLES
In the Spring and Summer a good sandbox is a backyard basic! And for fun, originality, and price One Step Ahead has the best!
If you're looking for something that is sure to catch your grandchild's imagination, you'll love One Step Ahead's toddler SAND AND WATER TABLE.
Do toddlers ever get tired of scooping, sifting, and splashing? Not the ones we know — that's why sand and water tables are a backyard must! One Step Ahead's SAND AND WATER TABLE collapses for easy end-of-summer storage. And it includes more toys, plus a neat ledge to hold them! Molded cover has recessed roadway on top. 10-minute assembly. For ages 18 months and up.
And if you're looking for a SAND AND WATER TABLE that has sun protection, One Step Ahead has that too.
This two-in-one table lets little ones enjoy two favorite summer pastimes at once. More intriguing than other play tables, with built-in paths and two removable bridges. Even the protective lid features molded-in roadways to spark imaginative play. With drain plugs for easy emptying and a shade umbrella. Legs detach for storage and on-the-ground play. Includes two boats, two pots, and one shovel.
For more conventional sandboxes, Amazon.com has the most, like the NATURALLY PLAYFUL SUMMERTIME PLAY CENTER by STEP2.
Sailors and land-lubbers alike will love this shaded sand and water combo! With a combination picnic table and sandbox/pool, this play center also sports a large umbrella for protection from the sun. The sandbox side includes a cover, and can be used as a pool if desired. (Includes built-in drain plug for water removal).
Your grandchildren have undoubtedly seen the original Circle of Fun at their pediatrician's office — it's the one surrounded by happy kids! Now, your grandchild can enjoy her own personal version of this irresistible activity table, scaled down for your home. Gorgeous wood craftsmanship, with four modular segments for more creative options and cooperative play. Timeless activities include gears, bead mazes, two-sided ABC/123 puzzle, and xylophone. 35½" in diameter. 30-minute assembly. For ages 2 and up.
6. SLEEPOVER SOLUTIONS
These items provide real toddler sleep solutions at home and at grandma's!
The TRAVEL'N TRUNDLE is an ideal toddler/transitional bed or a perfect portable bed for sleepovers! More substantial than a sleeping bag...and easier to carry, too!
This extra-large bed is ideal for trips, overnights at Grandma's, and sleepovers at home. So lightweight, your child will take pride in carrying it himself. Rolls up like a sleeping bag to fit in its own handy duffel.
Includes 1.25" vinyl covered mattress and fitted sheet. Fast 60-second assembly.
Have you ever tried to find a toddler-sized pillow? It's extremely difficult. And standard pillows are so big and uncomfortable most toddlers end up sleeping flat on the bed in front of the pillow.
The MEMORY FOAM KID PILLOW is the solution! It's as high quality and comfortable as an adult-sized.
Or how about an infant travel bed that can be used at grandma's house or with you while you relax outdoors?
The PEAPOD TRAVEL BED is the perfect protective cocoon for little grand-bean! When it comes to comfort, most baby travel beds fall short! This one's different — it has a thick, inflatable mattress that cradles baby luxuriously, lifting her up off cold floors and hard ground. Parents love the ultra-secure safety enclosure, which blocks wind, sun, and insects (ideal for outdoor napping!).
With easy-access zippers and 50% UV protection. Folds flat; sleeping pad, carry bag, and air pump included. 5-minute assembly. For birth to 1 year.
Does your grandbaby sleep in the same bed as her parents? That's known as "the family bed" and lots of parents enjoy the extra bonding time with their baby. But there is always the danger of rolling over on the child.
Now with the SUPREME SNUGGLE NEST, baby can be brought into the family bed safely, snug in his own enclosed sleep space! Great new safety features include breathable sidewalls for increased airflow, an adjustable back-sleeping positioner, and a wedge to elevate baby's head for healthier breathing. There's even a built-in, detachable nightlight! Poly/cotton sheets and cover are machine washable. Two sheets included; additional sheets available separately. Use from birth until baby begins to push up or roll over.
Great gift for the family or can be used by grandma and grandpa as a possible place for baby to nap while at their home.
7. BEST SANDALS, RASH GUARDS (SUN SHIRTS), AND SHADES
High quality sandals, rash guards, and shades are an absolute summer essential! And your grandchildren will be the cutest at the beach.
Climbing? No problem! Wading? Let's go! These kids' all-terrain sandals help little explorers keep their footing on rough, hot ground and slick, wet surfaces. With hook 'n loop straps for great fit, flexible soles for comfort, and stay-fresh antimicrobial liner. Bonus: converts to a slide for 2-in-1 value — just remove the heel strap! Exclusively from One Step Ahead.
Spending time outdoors with the grandkids this summer? Tired of applying sunscreen every two hours? Liberate yourself and your little one from sun screen applications with RASH GUARDS and coordinating SHORTS. Great as a gift or buy a set to keep at your home for when the grandkids come to swim or go to the beach.
These provide extra sun protection, without extra weight! One Step Ahead's stretchy rash guard covers more skin, but it's so sleek and lightweight, kids love wearing it. Offers terrific shoulder, arm, and torso coverage. (The long tail covers the lower back, even when bending over a sandcastle.) UPF 50+ fabric won't bleed or fade in sun, salt water, and chlorine. With sporty lines and a fun appliquè.
And for shades that will leave your little grandchild UV protected AND cool too, onestepahead offers TWO-TONE RUBBER SUNGLASSES at a low price. It's never too early to start protecting baby's eyes! These soft, ultra-comfortable sunglasses are designed just for infants, with shatter and impact resistant polycarbonate lenses. Blocks all UV rays.
Buy a spare! These shades offer excellent UV protection with a super stay-on fit.
8. BEST BACKYARD SUMMERTIME FUN
Time for backyard fun at Grandma and Grandpa's!
A baby carrier for the pool! This carrier warms like a wet suit. Help mom and dad keep baby close and warm in the pool! Offered by One Step Ahead, this ingenious Neoprene carrier actually helps keep baby's body temperature warm. Comfy and quick drying, with padded, easy-to-adjust straps. Wear as a front or side carrier. (Its insulating properties are ideal for winter adventures, too!).
Invite your grandkids over for some backyard summer fun. Wiggly, giggly sprinkler fun. Splash, dash, have a blast! This soft, 12 ft. hose is equipped with 15 sprinkler heads that wiggle and twist, squirting water every which way. Lay the hose in a line, in a circle — any shape you can think of. Even sedentary kids can't resist! Hooks to your garden hose. Colors may vary. For ages 3 and up.
Now while you're gardening, your little assistant can help! Rake, dig, hoe, harvest...One Step Ahead's wheeled Gardening Trolley is packed with adult-quality kids' gardening tools. Includes two handles and nine attachments that not only spark imaginative play, but are truly functional. They just might "sow" a lifelong interest in gardening! Gardena is a maker of high-quality adult lawn and gardening tools. For ages 3 and up.
With One Step Ahead's stay-cool splash mat, it's never too hot for hop scotch! That's because each time little jumpers land on a box, they're rewarded with a refreshing spray of water. One Step Ahead's is 50% larger than others, for jumbo-sized fun! Includes 4 vinyl markers; hooks to your garden hose. Your grandchildren will be asking to come over to splash with this again.
But if you want something for just sitting on the lawn in the backyard, try the LIL SQUIRT BABY POOL. Babies love cooling off in this gentle splash pool, with extra-soft sprayers to play in and explore. Now 40% larger, for even more fun. There's even a pat mat area with floating 3D fish!
Vinyl mat features entertaining undersea graphics (tickle a turtle; cover the whale's blow hole!). Attaches to your garden hose.
And with the EAR BAND-IT SYSTEM your kids can swim in the pool or ocean without worry of ear infections!
Avoid swimmers ear for your little pool junkie! If your child is prone to ear infections, or has already had tubes put in his ears, this product is a must-have. Just place the safe, putty-like ear plugs (one pair included) in your child's ears and position the stretchy headband on your child's head. Water stays out of the ear canal. Physican approved.
9. BEST THRILL TOYS
Grandparents know how much grandkids love to jump!
Three bouncin', whirlin' rides in one. It's a bouncer...it's a see-saw...it's a merry go round! That's three favorite playground activities rolled into one terrific backyard rider! Kids love bouncing, jumping, and twirling—and, thanks to its clever pivoting arm, you don't need a buddy to enjoy the action. Very sturdy, with a tough, inflatable bouncing ball and stay-put base (base must be weighted with sand for stability). Indoor/outdoor use. Supports kids up to 70 lbs. For ages 2 and up. Whirly Bounce Rider available from One Step Ahead.
The FOLDING TRAMPOLINE is another great jumping toy!
You'll love this safe trampoline as much as your kids do! That's because of mom-approved safety features, like a hold-on handle and slip-resistant jumping surface. Instead of metal springs, we used stretchy bungee cords - and then covered the frame for soft, padded landings.
Bonus: it folds nearly flat, for hassle-free storage! Great energy buster, indoors or out. 34" x 34".
And toddlers with a notion for motion will love the UP AND DOWN COASTER.
This rollicking roller coaster is powered by gravity, not electricity, and is a fun ride toddlers can do themselves!
It includes three piece snap-together track, non-slip steps, and a fully assembled coaster car. Built for safety, the coaster features a retainer that keeps the car still until your child is seated. Securely designed car features high back, handrail and footrests. Sturdy enough for indoor/outdoor use. Ages 2 and up.
One Step Ahead made their best-selling inflatable jumper even stronger and safer! It still has the highest safety wall out there, and it's still the only one with an irresistible, crawl-thru tunnel. But now they added clear-view rings so you can see inside from every angle, and enhanced the design so it's even tougher. Rugged 35 mm PVC, with leak-proof seams. So strong, it supports 2 kids up to 300 lbs. total. For ages 2 and up.
While you're afraid of being pushy or butting in, the parents are afraid of imposing on or burdening you. What can a grandparent do? Canny Grannies know that their kids need them and their experience now more than ever.
Canny Granny
Chapter One, Increase Involvement in New Grandchild Preparations
When it comes to maintaining good relations with the parents, there's one simple rule to keep in mind: Give your opinion but always respect the parents' decisions
Canny Granny
Chapter Three, Creating Good Relations with the Parents
The easier it is for parents to bring the kids over the more they will.
Canny Granny
Chapter Four, Getting More Visits
It's in your best interest to negotiate a holiday schedule that's fair to the other grandparents because a fair schedule will reduce argument and last.
Canny Granny
Chapter Five, Getting Your Share of Holiday, Birthday, and Other Special Occasion Visits
Even though your children are adults, you may still have to set limits.
Canny Granny
Chapter Six, When Things are too Good at Grandma's
Kids do a lot of art projects...parents throw a lot away...Instead, suggest that any artwork they don't want be sent to you.