Toddler essentials checklist
1–3 years. Everything to think about, by category, with links to our picks.
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Essentials checklist
A starting point, not a rule. Every child is different. Follow each product's instructions and age limits.
Feeding
- Open cups and sippy cupsPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Munchkin Miracle 360 trainer cup, Munchkin Splash training cups (4-pack)
- Plates, bowls and utensils sized for small handsPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Munchkin Stay Put suction bowls, Elk and Friends toddler utensils
- Snack containersPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Munchkin Snack Catcher cups
- A high chair or booster seat. Use the harness every time.Popular pick on Amazon.ca: Ingenuity 6-in-1 high chair, Ingenuity SmartClean booster seat
- BibsPopular pick on Amazon.ca: PandaEar silicone bibs (3-pack)
Sleep
- A crib that converts to a toddler bed, or a toddler bed when your child is readyPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Dream On Me 5-in-1 convertible crib, Dream On Me toddler bed
- Fitted sheets and sleep sacksPopular pick on Amazon.ca: KeaBabies organic crib sheets (2-pack), Yoofoss cotton sleep sack
- A night light or sound machine (optional)Popular pick on Amazon.ca: Dreamegg white noise machine, Auxmir rechargeable night light
Diapering & potty
- Diapers or pull-ups, and wipesPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Pampers Easy Ups training pants, Pampers Sensitive wipes
- A potty seat or step stool when your child is readyPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Dreambaby EZY-Potty seat, Dreambaby 2-up step stool
- Training pantsPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Pampers Easy Ups training pants
Bath & care
- Bath toysPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Munchkin Fishin bath toy
- A toothbrush and toothpaste made for toddlersPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Dr. Brown’s toddler toothbrush set
- A step stool so they can reach the sink safely, with supervisionPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Dreambaby 2-up step stool
- TowelsPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Hooded baby towels (2-pack)
Clothing
- Everyday outfits that are easy to take off and put on
- PajamasPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Simple Joys snug-fit pajamas
- First walking shoesPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Soft-sole first walking shoes
- Outerwear for the season
Travel & gear
- A convertible car seat. Follow the seat’s height and weight limits and your vehicle’s manual.Popular pick on Amazon.ca: Graco Extend2Fit car seat
- A lightweight strollerPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Ingenuity 3Dquickclose compact stroller
Play & learning
- Blocks and puzzlesPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Melissa & Doug wooden blocks (100), Melissa & Doug vehicle puzzles
- Picture booksPopular pick on Amazon.ca: First 100 Words (padded board book)
- Fine-motor toys. Check for small parts and supervise play.Popular pick on Amazon.ca: Fisher-Price Rock-a-Stack
- Ride-on toys and art suppliesPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Radio Flyer Busy Buggy, My First Crayola palm-grip crayons
Safety & childproofing
- Baby gates. Use hardware-mounted gates at the top of stairs.Popular pick on Amazon.ca: Safety 1st walk-through gate, Evenflo top-of-stairs gate
- Anti-tip straps for furniturePopular pick on Amazon.ca: Furniture anchors (10-pack)
- Cabinet and drawer locksPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Cabinet & drawer locks (10-pack)
- Corner guardsPopular pick on Amazon.ca: Corner protectors (12-pack)
- Window safety devices
Seasonal
- A sun hat for summerPopular pick on Amazon.ca: UPF 50+ kids sun hat
- A warm hat and winter gear
Ready to shop?
See everything we recommend for this stage: Toddler picks. Looking for something special? Browse our Christmas and birthday gift guides.