by Tiffany Savener

Created on: January 27, 2007   Last Updated: April 23, 2007

As a parent of two very young daughters, I've chosen many gifts for my girls (ages 17 months and 3 years) as well as received many gifts for them, so I'll share a few of my favorites.

1. Tiny hair accessories are always fun to receive. Small bows on clamps that will cling to thin hair or headbands with larger bows that stay on baby's head work really well. These are available at children's clothing stores, as well as larger stores chain stores and on the Internet. To really delight mom, a matching outfit with coordinating little socks is sure to please.

2. A crib soother, like the Fisher Price Waterfall Soother, helps parents get a few minutes of rest in those first months of long nights.

3. A first baby doll is another great gift for a baby girl. Look for one with a soft body and eyes that are sewn on. The doll should have no parts that might come off.

4. A gift certificate for an enrichment activity to get parent and baby out of the house together would be a welcome gift. Think of things in the family's area, such as children's museums, zoos, art programs, parent and tot gymnastics classes, play and music programs (Gymboree, Little Gym, Heartsong Music and Kindermusic), Baby Signing classes, etc., and purchase a family membership.

5. A Fisher-Price Sweet Sounds Home makes a great first doll house even for the tiniest children. The pieces are large enough for little hands to manipulate, and the house is focused on things common in the environment of young children - there is a potty for play potty-training, a crib is featured prominently, and there are baby accessories, like a high chair, included.

6. Books are always wonderful gifts. Some of my toddler's favorites are "Pat the Bunny" by Dorothy Kunhardt; "No, No, Jo!" by Kate and Jim McMullan; and "Olivia's Opposites" by Ian Falconer. Look for sturdy board books that can endure lots of activity.

7. Children's music Cd's are also appreciated, particularly if they are enjoyable for parents as well as the wee ones. Some of our favorite artists are Joe McDermott and Laurie Berkner.

8. Dramatic play items are fun for young children. Very simple dress up clothes, such as plastic dress up shoes (available at most toy stores) little sunglasses, purses, and tutus are fun and will quickly become favorites with a baby girl. Also, things like big plastic keys and play cell phones get played with again and again.

9. A photo books, filled with pictures of family and friends of the baby, is sure to be enjoyed. Photo books with colorful cover photos and baby-friendly handles can be found in most variety or baby stores with the small toys.

10. A "Tiny Diner Portable Placemat" is an essential for babies on the go. It's a rubber mat with suction cups that stick to the table top of restaurants so that baby always has a clean spot to eat. Also included is a little shelf to catch food that would otherwise drop on the floor. At the end of the meal, it can be rolled and stored until it goes in the dishwasher. It's available in pink for girls.

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