Go Car and Splash Art

Another birthday. Seems like when you have a family the size of mine, there will be a birthday pretty often. This week, my littlest little man turned 1 year old.

What to get a 1 year old? Should be easy enough, right?

I had these ideas of what he liked and was sure I knew just what would hold his attention for a generous amount of time. I searched a HUGE toy store and a few department stores, but nothing was QUITE right. I had him with me for those trips and nothing really caught his eye either. I love all those musical, learning, loud toys as does he. Turns out, none of them held his attention for more than a few minutes. I guess for a guy who just learned to use his legs to their full potential, not just any old sit-down toy will do. I was beginning to give up, then I turned to my trusted 3 block radius and found just the things he wanted.

First stop was The Craft Studio....again.(Truth is we went in to say hello to old friends and catch a minute or 5 of air conditioning.) While we visited and shopped, I found what seemed to be perfect for my man. It was a Kid O Go Car. This company Kid O is the same one that put out those Bilibo "seats" that many families love. I couldn't see the car with my own eyes, unfortunately. The packaging is this perfect, neutral colored box that is perfect for gift-giving. I figured I would take a chance on the 11 dollar vehicle. It was a chance well worth taking.

The car itself is very light and made of a so-far-durable-plastic that my son loves. The roof is actually a handle that fits perfectly in his chubby little paws. The wheels have a rubber coating that makes it "work" on any floor.....or ground. We should know.....he brings it everywhere he goes. On the front are these 2 little reflectors that replicate headlights. It is too cute. Truly.

Our next find was just a couple of blocks away at The Children's General Store. I frequently window shop in this store only because I am a Craft Studio faithful and I was never too sure about their pricing, but I am glad I visited this day. While I gazed around, I overheard a UES mom asking the store clerk about what activity her 16 month old daughter could do. He suggested Splash Art by Reeve and Jones.

I was sold when he explained it to her. I then Googled average pricing of the toy on my Droid and found this store's price was just right! Such an easy toy. You simply fill this little pen with water and let the kids color on one of the sides of the board and rainbow colors appear where they have written. The board dries and they can start again. It is very similar to a Zen board, which I LOVE. My older children had to constantly be reminded to give it back to the baby. Will be amazing when we travel. The birthday boy LOVED it too. Plus whenever he got thirsty, he sucked the water out of the pen. I bet the little capsule isn't BPA free! I also bet it won't kill him. That's the country in me talking!

I opened my mind this week and found some gems. My little man turned one. He got some cute new little toys and we all celebrated with him for days. Too bad he won't remember a thing of it!