Raising an NYC Toddler

Every stage of Chunks's development I learn more and more about what he needs, what makes life easier for him and I, and what extras are helpful when on the go in NYC. I wrote this post about what I learned an NYC baby needed and since then so much has changed, been outgrown, and has become unnecessary that I felt the need to give an update on what a newby NYC toddler would need.


1-A durable stoller!! This will probably always be in the top spot of my lists until he's old enough because in Brooklyn/NYC your stroller IS your car. While I LOVE our Uppababy G-Luxe the snow was a huge challenge for it. Passing over the slightest un-shovled pavement was work or almost impossible! Right now we're on the hunt for a bigger stroller, one that I can still carry up and down subway stairs, cn handle the streets, the snow (since it doesn't seem to want to leave NY), and Chunks's growing frame. So far the contenders are: 

The City Mini

The Orbit Toddler

The Maclaren is the playground favorite here in NY but I remember when I was choosing the Uppababy it was heavier with the bigger price tag and still needed some improvements, I've heard the jogger option in the City Mini was easier to maneuver through a busy crowd and I've always been a fan of the Orbit and love the idea of turning Chunks around to chat with him on some of our windy day adventures and then spinning him back around to take in the sites. We'll test drive this weekend to be sure.

2-The Diaper Bag gets upgraded! When he's with the Mr, our Skiphop still does the trick. He doesn't need as many supplies but what he does need is bigger. Even before I had Chunks I was in love with what I call Mom-bags so when he's with me, both of our things fit in whatever bag I'm carrying that day but his supplies are the real stars:

a-The Sippy Cup: Just like the bottle, depends on the child. Chunks likes the straw and the open and close switch feature on the Playtex Lil Grippers cups and the locking mechanisms on it makes sure it doesn't spill out in my bag either!

b-The Snacks: Bribes, Rewards, Hold Them Overs, snacks are a mom's best friend. Think healthy and balance though when packing and if it's something like an Oatmeal Bar that can hold mom over too, EVEN BETTER! Chunks still loves his Plum Organics and they're great for his grip and a full fruit serving for the day.

c-The Life Savers: Little hands are busy hands and when totting a curious toddler on the train, through museums, up and down the playground, their little hands become a germ wonder world in no time. Baby Sani-wipes (low alcohol contents) and Purell I've found to be best. Also, when the Tide to Go minis are so ideal for the spills and dribbles that get past the bib or mom's napkin.

d-Diapers and Changing pads are still necessary although the amount will diminish a little but still pack 1 more than you think you'll need, just in case.

e-Zip lock bags, change of clothes, and an all purpose balm like Aquaphor, it'll save mom and baby, trust!

3-PRE-SCHOOL!! It's so important that this be discussed early and often and that the ground work be done on where you'd like your child to go and how much you can afford, especially in NYC. I mentioned it in the previous post but as we come closer to that stage, the pressure is ON! No, I'm so serious.

4-Potty Training-A breeze for some, a biggie for others (ME) Find a fun potty and keep tons of fun, if not potty related, books close by, you'll be there a while. Remember to pack you patience also, little one can sense your anxiety and feed off of that. No Good.

5-Flash Cards and goofy voices WORK! I've found that many toddlers, including Chunks, are visual learners and respond to pictures along with high pitch sounds and funny noises, they pick up on things so much quicker. So leave your pride and "chicness" somewhere and get on the the floor and Quack & Moo your heart out, he'll thank you when he get's into Princeton lol

6-Time. Right now the best thing you can do for your toddler is not the newest toy, the latest museum exhibit, or playing in Central Park, it's YOU. When he can see that he has my attention and I'm into what he's doing there's a confidence that grows and different kind of happiness that comes out in Chunks that I don't see otherwise. So I carve time out for more Chunks time, even through my new busy-ness.

Did you learn anything new once your little one got older? or after

having a first child that you use with your 2nd?