The Go-To's Section
Sportball
Offers a wide variety of non-competitive sports programs for children 16 months – 12 years. Locations across Canada.
Where to buy: sportball.ca
Code Ninjas
With locations across Canada, kids learn to code in a fun, safe, and inspiring learning environment, with a game-based curriculum that they love. Parents love it too because their kids make real progress and gain valuable skills while having a great time.
Where to buy: codeninjas.com
DEJSA Table Lamp
Ikea’s really bringing it with this minimalist table lamp that draws inspo from iconic design elements. It’s simple and casts soothing light, perfect for that meditation spot or home office you recently outfitted. Something pretty, something useful. That’s worth shining a light on.
Where to buy: $40, ikea.com
Double Hammock with Tree Straps
Sorry, couldn’t hear you, we were napping in this take-anywhere hammock. Roomy enough for two, it’s made using nearly zero waste production. It’s lightweight and perfectly portable.
Where to buy: $105, mec.ca
Pictus 3-Month Floral Subscription
There’s nothing better for brightening a day–yours or someone else’s–than a flower delivery. A three-month (or more!) subscription to a floral delivery company guarantees a cheerful mail day at least once a month! Each arrangement is crafted specifically for the recipient, and you can even specify if there are certain blooms you do or don’t want included.
Where to buy: $150, pictusgoods.com
The Go-To's Section
FÖRNUFTIG Air Purifier
IKEA’s new air purifier works hard to filter out the likes of dust, smoke, pollen and chemicals (plus it’s so stylish you’ll barely notice it in with the rest of your décor!).
Where to buy: $70, ikea.com
Burt’s Bees Matte Stick
Every makeup bag and purse needs a moisturizing, lightly tinted chapstick, and this one delivers. With rich, natural colour available in 12 different shades, this option made from 100% natural origin ingredients delivers long-lasting moisture.
Where to buy: $11, Shoppers Drug Mart
Philips One Travel Toothbrush
Available in multiple colours, this sleek electric toothbrush can be purchased in both battery-powered and rechargeable versions. Each product comes with a handle, a brushhead and a handy travel case, to make packing simple. In the case of the battery-operated model, one 90-day AAA battery is included; with the rechargeable product, a USB charging cable is provided.
The Questioneers Collection of books
If you’ve never heard of the Questioneers collection, you need to click “add to cart” ASAP. With inquisitive kids at the heart of every book–kids who aspire to be an architect, a scientist, an engineer and even the president–they role-model for every child that no dream is out of reach. Plus the stories rhyme, so they’re super-fun for bedtime reading.
$63.88, chapters.indigo.ca
Loulou Lollipop Bubble Silicone and Wood Teether
Those tiny chompers fighting to poke through are often painful for weeks–even before they pop through the gumline! This teether offers two textures for maximum relief–the squishy, food-grade silicone and the hard beechwood rings both help your little one to alleviate the pressure and pain of teething.
Where to buy: $32 louloulollipop.ca
Better Nights, Better Days program
COVID-19 has affected the sleep schedules of many Canadian families. Better Nights, Better Days is an evidence-based online program to support parents of children aged 1-10 years who experience sleeping problems including difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking too early.
Where to register: http://btfollow.com/bnbd
Willful Wills
Willful can help you and your loved-ones create a legal will from the comfort of home this holiday season – no lawyer required!
Where to buy: From as low as $99, willful.co
Color Buddies™ Moisturizing Bath Bombs & Toy Dispenser Set
Colorful bath water is a fun trick for getting even the most bath-averse toddler into the tub. A brilliant addition to the bath routine, Color Buddies™ are kid-friendly bath bombs that infuse water with clean, multihued fun. Made with natural skin-loving ingredients like Vitamin E and shea butter, our colorful bath bombs are moisturizing and safe for kids (grownups, too!). Simply drop the bath tablets into the dispenser of choice, fasten the safety cap, immerse in water and watch as colors fizz and bloom. With 20 included bath bombs, you can teach little ones how to combine colors to make new ones. The nontoxic formula is super easy to clean and won’t stain tubs or skin. And the adorable whale and puffer fish dispensers double as floating bath strainers, extending playtime even more. Color us captivated!
Where to buy: $14, Babies R Us – Amazon – Shoppers Drug Mart
New Medela Pump In Style® with MaxFlow™ Technology
The completely new Pump In Style® with MaxFlow™ Vacuum Technology provides effective stimulation for increased milk flow. Its modern and compact design is easy to carry for convenient portability. It also includes our PersonalFit™ Flex breast shields for added efficiency and comfort to provide 11.8% more milk faster.
Where to buy: medelastore.ca
Disney Baby Collection
Just Delivered! New Mickey, Minnie and Winnie the Pooh adorable baby outfits and accessories for your littlest ones. Bodysuits, sleep ‘n play and accessories all made of soft 100% cotton.
Where to buy: walmart.ca
Earthology Beeswax Food Wraps
Litterless lunches are easy with these colourful, food-safe wraps. Use them exactly as you would plastic wrap.
Where to buy: $30, prettycleanshop.com
President’s Choice Dark Chocolate Almond Crunch
The perfect sweet treat or snack, crunchy almonds are coated in toffee before going for a dip in dark chocolate that’s been mixed with toasted coconut shreds. The result? An addictive pop of flavour that just won’t quit.
$5, loblaws.ca
High Sierra Outburst Backpack
Cute, stylish and mega roomy, there’s space for school supplies, lunch and a laptop in the padded sleeve. Dual side pockets hold water bottles while mesh-lined straps offer cool comfort.
Where to buy: $50, samsonite.ca
Remedywear™ Washable Face Mask
Specifically designed for sensitive skin, this washable zinc face mask offers anti-bacterial, anti-microbal and anti-odour properties.
Where to buy: $26, yonaturals.com
Kid’s Shampoo and Body Wash
This two-in-one formula is perfect for sensitive skin and all hair types. With organic coconut, marshmallow root and aloe, the smells-so-good formula softens, moisturizes and soothes.
Where to buy: $8, hellobello.ca
Cool Beans: The Ultimate Guide to Cooking with the World’s Most Versatile Plant-Based Protein by Joe Yonan
As the food editor at The Washington Post, it’s safe to say that Joe Yonan knows his way around the kitchen and, apparently, beans. With 125 pantry-staple recipes for the slow cooker and the stove top, you’ll find yummy eats like Harissa-Roasted Carrot, White Bean Dip, Smoky Black Bean and Plantain Chili, Crunchy Spiced Chickpeas and even some bean-themed desserts.
$40, amazon.ca
Melon Lunch Box
“I carried a watermelon” takes on a whole new meaning with this cute lunch box! It’s insulated to keep food fresh and waterproof so you can wipe it clean with ease.
Where to buy: $40, cocovillage.ca
Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Eye Cream
Ideal for all skin types, this lightweight eye cream works hard to smooth and depuff tired eyes. When used daily, it can help with uneven texture, dullness fine lines and wrinkles.
$59, sephora.com
First Response Pregnancy Test
Find out if you’re pregnant sooner with this early response test that tells you six days before your missed period. Using sensitive digital technology, the test is easy to read with clear “Yes+” or “No-” results.
Where to buy: $18, walmart.ca
Nature’s Way Omegasea
Omega-3 fatty acids help with brain function and cognitive health, so taking it is a no-brainer. OmegaSea offers a combination of pure omega-3 plus vitamin D (which helps with teeth and bones) in tasty flavours for kids and families like lemon, chocolate and bubblegum bonanza. With no fishy aftertaste, one teaspoon a day is all you need. If straight off the spoon is a no-go for your family, try adding it to a smoothie.
Where to buy: $14, well.ca
Philips Built-In Bluetooth Sonic Electric Toothbrush For Kids
Getting your kids to brush their teeth doesn’t need to be a drag. With the interactive Philips Sonicare toothbrush oral hygiene can be fun. The brush, which comes with several interchangeable sticker plates to customize and an interactive app that syncs with the brush and shows kids proper techniques via a fun game. Parents can keep track of brushing time and the multi grip handle allows for a comfortable hold for little ones and grownups offering help.
Where to buy: $60, walmart.ca
Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids Sunscreen Spray SPF50+
Have fun in the sun knowing that you’re protected. With an SPF50, this spray-on, water-resistant formula uses minimal ingredients, making it perfect for sensitive skin and contains no added fragrance or oil. It’s tear-free and easy to rub in, too, protecting you from a slew of conditions like, ocean water, pool water, sweat, wind and high heat.
Where to buy: $11, walmart.ca
Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes
You know that your kid’s grubby hands are going to leave handprints everywhere including your kitchen counters, the fridge door, cupboard handles… you name it, they’re gonna touch it. Enter Seventh Generation: Their disinfecting wipes kill 99.9 percent of household germs with no rinsing required. You can even cook on more surfaces you’ve wiped down with them because the active ingredient is thymol—it’s a component of thyme oil and safe for widespread use.
Where to buy: $5, seventhgeneration.ca
Nexcare Brights Soft Fabric Bandages
Sometimes a bandage makes everything better, and these bright TKs are no exception. They have a natural feel that bends and moves, perfect for fingers, knees and elbows. The soft material is thin, stretchy and breathable, allowing for sweat to evaporate. Comes in teal, yellow, purple and red.
Where to buy: 3mcanada.ca
Cuisinart 2-In-1 Baby Food Maker And Bottle Warmer
This multi-purpose baby kitchen appliance chops and steams in the same four-cup BPA-free work bowl so you can feed your baby a healthy meal in no time. A handy bottle heater compartment allows you to heat Baby’s milk or formula to just the right temperature.
Where to buy: $120, walmart.ca
The Girls’ Guide To Growing Up Great
By Sophie Elkan, Laura Chaisty, Maddy Podichetty
Ages 10+
It’s all about thriving during those sometimes trying tween and teen years and this book covers everything girls need to know about puberty, feelings, cyberbullying, relationships and even sex (but don’t worry—it’s very age appropriate).
$24, indigo.ca
The Cardboard Kingdom
By Chad Sell
Ages 8-12
This colourful graphic novel follows a group of kids who transforms cardboard boxes into cool costumes and their neighbourhood into a cardboard kingdom while on summer vacation. The importance of imagination and friendship are celebrated in this fun story.
$18, indigo.ca
Something From Nothing
By Phoebe Gilman
Ages 5-11
When Joseph was born, his grandfather made him a beautiful blanket. But over time it got tattered and torn, so his grandfather turned it into something else time and time again. Until one day, there’s no fabric left to make anything.
$9, indigo.ca
Iggy Peck, Architect
By Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
Ages 4-8
Part of the Innovator series, meet Iggy, who loves to build. When his teacher declares that she doesn’t like architecture, Iggy faces a dilemma—should he keep doing what he loves or stop to please someone else? Parents and kids alike will love the rhyming scheme of this one.
$23, indigo.ca
I Want My Hat Back
By Jon Klassen
Ages 4-8
When Bear can’t find his hat, he turns to his fellow animal friends for help. None of them have seen it, until a deer poses a question that sparks Bear’s memory and reignites his search.
$21, amazon.ca
Back To The Future
Illustrated by Kim Smith
Ages 4-8
Great Scott! Marty McFly is back, this time in a picture book. Introduce your kids to Marty who travels to the 1950s (with mad scientist Doc in tow) and meets his teenaged parents. Fans of the flick will get a kick out of the adorable illustrations (Doc’s so cute!)
$20, indigo.ca
Complete Mathsmart
Complete MathSmart provides plenty of interesting and systematic practice for developing and improving your child’s math skills. Through Complete MathSmart, your child not only understands the concepts better and masters the necessary skills, but he or she will also be able to apply them in solving math problems in real-life situations. Complete MathSmart is available for grades 1-12.
$17, popularbook.ca
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
This gentle, soap-free cleanser won’t bug your skin or its natural PH, so it’s safe for daily use. Great for sensitive skin (the fragrance-free formula is even safe for baby) and can be applied wet or dry, as in, when you only have two minutes to get out the door.
Where to buy: $20, well.ca
Kamik Boots Bailee
Combining fashion with functionality, the Bailee boot will keep your feet toasty up to -30°C. With a 100 percent promise to keep your feet dry all winter long using a special waterproof membrane that lets your feet breathe but keeps any kind of weather out, you can feel good about trekking in these comfortable, faux-shearling lined boots.
Where to buy: $110, kamik.com
Q and A a Day Journal
Keeping a journal is tough at the best of times, but once you have kids? Haha, forget about it. Enter this sweet five-year book. Every date comes with a specific question to answer. After you fill it in for a year, start over! It’s fun to look back and compare your responses.
Where to buy: $20, indigo.ca
Under Armour Mid-Crossback Sports Bra
Good support is always important and this crossover-strap sports bra fits the bill. Made from material that dries quickly and wicks away sweat, it’s soft, breathable and has removable cups. Double-layer HeatGear fabric feels great against your skin and four-way stretch construction allows for easy movement in all directions.
Where to buy: $40, underarmour.com
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Full Coverage Anti-Aging Waterproof Concealer
Puffy eyes and dark circles are a pain point for many. Enter this long-wearing concealer that’s geared towards mature skin and developed with plastic surgeons. Anti-aging peptides, hydrolyzed collagen, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid work to hide dark circles, redness, bags, age spots and broken capillaries while also improving the appearance of wrinkles. Available in 48 shades.
Where to buy: $35, itcosmetics.ca
Dermalogica Calm Water Gel
Dry, sensitive skin will be quickly transformed with this skin-quenching gel. It creates a weightless barrier against environmental elements while locking in moisture. Apple fruit extract and glycerin help soften and hydrate while cactus pear extract adds water-binding properties and helps to support your skin’s moisture balance.
Where to buy: $65, dermalogica.ca
Nutri-Grain Fruit And Nut Medley Bars
Real fruit makes up half of these tasty bars (and you can actually see it), the rest is puffed rice and whole grain gluten-free oats. It’s a substantial snack that will curb their hunger. Available in Orchard Cherries and Almond and Harvest Blueberries and Mixed Nuts.
Where to buy: $4, walmart.ca
Sodastream Source Sparkling Water Maker
If you struggle to get your 8 to 10 glasses a water of day, a SodaStream can help. With the ability to control just how fizzy you want your sparkling water, this sleek, countertop machine doesn’t use electricity so you can bring it anywhere (like glamping or to the backyard barbecue!). Powered by a CO2 cylinder, fill your bottle with tap water and easily lock it into place then fizz it up with a push of the button. Comes with one-litre carbonating bottle and a CO2 cylinder. Syrups for making soda sold separately.
Where to buy: $150, canadiantire.ca
Ayurvedic Teas From Tetley
Ayurveda is a 5000-year-old system of holistic knowledge which teaches that balancing the mind, body, and spirit is essential for holistic well-being. Sit back and let one of the three caffeine-free flavours help you unwind. There’s Vigor Kapha, a blend of ginger and mint; Cool Pitta, which is mint and subtle lemon and Poise Vata, a warm cinnamon and orange medley.
Where to buy: $5, amazon.ca
Potato Ricer
Meet your new must-have gadget. It sort of looks like an oversized garlic press, with a perforated basket on one side, where you put a cooked potato, and a flat disc on the other side. When pressed together, the disc pushes the potato through the holes of the basket (this is a great job for a small sous chef, if the potatoes aren’t too hot and kids can be trusted to keep their fingers out of the way). The result? The smoothest mashed potatoes in the land.
Where to buy: $13, canadiantire.ca
Enjoy Life Soft Baked Mini Cookies
If a soft-baked cookie in handy little packages strikes your fancy, lean in. These portable, gluten-free, school-safe snacks come in a variety of flavours from double chocolate brownie, snickerdoodle, chocolate chip and double chocolate. They’re non-GMO, vegan, and come individually wrapped with six 28g bags per box.
Where to buy: $6, enjoylifefoods.com
President’s Choice Smoky Bacon Flavoured Maple Syrup
This bacon-infused maple syrup has your back on busy mornings, offering the smoky flavour of bacon without all the work or splatter that comes with the real deal.
Sure, it’s delicious drizzled over pancakes or French toast, but it also comes in handy as a glaze for chicken and salmon, poured over ice cream or whisked up in your fave homemade salad dressing.
Where to buy: $5, presidentschoice.ca
Yvolution Neon Scooter
Get ready to take the sidewalk by storm with this flashy scooter. Along with the sharp performance handling and the lightweight frame, this deck comes with motion-powered, ultra-bright LED lights in the wheels.
Where to buy: $80, canadiantire.ca
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera In Ice Blue
Selfies are more fun with a cute, retro-inspired camera. Instantly printing photos, it has a built-in selfie mirror for perfectly framed shots. The automatic flash and brightness dial makes for vibrant photos in various light. Using credit-card-sized film your photos will pop out instantly with a white frame, just like old school Polaroids.
Where to buy: $90, amazon.ca
LG 4K 50-Inch HDR Smart Tv
Short for high dynamic range, 4K HDR dramatically enhances the picture quality of existing 4K technology. For viewers, 4K HDR results in a picture that is clearer, richer and more vibrant. Objects on screen have more depth and appear more immersive, creating a life-like experience that will delight viewers of all ages.
Where to buy: $650, bestbuy.ca
Thermos Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Food Jar With Folding Spoon
There’s a reason Thermos has been around since 1904: The century-old technology is still reliable. These popular vacuum-seal containers do their job keeping cool things cool and warm things warm, which opens up a whole new set of lunchbox possibilities. You can do everything from cold overnight oats and hot oatmeal topped with dried fruit for breakfast, to soups, chili or macaroni and cheese for lunch.
Where to buy: $20, walmart.ca
Planetbox Rover With Two Dippers
Made of high-quality stainless steel (making it an eco-friendly, safe alternative to plastic) this bento box is easy to wash and keeps food fresh for ages. It comes in three sizes and every box comes with two dippers, which create a leakproof compartment for yogurts, thick soups and stews. There’s also a small spot for a little treat.
Where to buy: $70, cutekidstuff.com
Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute Vacuum
This vacuum really sucks, literally. In fact, it has the most powerful suction of any cord-free vacuum on the market thanks to a V10 motor. Special acoustic engineering means it’s not aggressively loud, which good news for kids with sensory issues or skittish pets. It’s made to fit your needs with three settings and morphs into a handheld vacuum in a single click. Wall-mounted drop-in docking means you can easily and neatly charge and go.
Where to buy: $800, dysoncanada.ca
X-Shot Flying Bug Attack
Flying targets are no match for you with this motorized launcher that can shoot 10 darts quick as can be. Step on a pedal to release a disc as the included flying bug soars into view. Those pests are no match for you.
Where to buy: $30, toysrus.ca
Click here to see the toy in action.
Little Tikes Stem Jr. Wonder Lab
It’s never too early to teach STEM. Your budding scientist will love this lab which features 20 hands-on experiments that use common household ingredients. Make slime, vampire blood and bubbles using the illustrated instructions. It even includes trial and error solutions if something goes awry. Features a light-up circuit board, plays 40-plus sounds and includes 20 lab accessories like test tubes, stirring spoons, goggles and an eyedropper.
Where to buy: $150, indigo.ca
Nintendo 2DS XL
Game on the go with this lightweight, powerful 2DS XL. It’s compatible with Nintendo 3DS and most Nintendo DS games. Featuring a screen that’s 82 percent larger and more controls than previous 2DS models, this system has a fast processor for smooth-moving graphics. With hours of fun to be had, it’s a good thing the fold-up clamshell design is comfortable for small hands. AC adaptor included.
Where to buy: $200, bestbuy.ca
Moonlite Storybook Projector Starter Pack
Moonlite is an fun-to-use device that turns your smartphone into a projector. Easily clipping on, it uses your phone’s flashlight to project storybook images onto any surface, like the wall or ceiling. The free app features all the story’s words so you can read along. Starter pack comes with projector, Goodnight Moon and Sago Mini on Vacation. The best part? No batteries required.
Where to buy: $30, mastermindtoys.com
Enfamil A+ Infant Formula
Did you know that your baby’s brain more than doubles in size during the first year? Consuming DHA—which is a type of Omega-3—formula is an important part of your baby’s brain development. Enfamil A+ formula is DHA-enriched, easy to digest and contains a blend of two dietary fibres, polydextrose and GOS. In fact, it’s the brand’s closest formula to breast milk.
Where to buy: $33, walmart.ca
Baby Snug By Mamas And Papas
The Baby Snug is a comfortable, supportive and ergonomically designed place for your baby to sit up and play. Lightweight and easy to clean, this seat will easily adjust with your child as he grows (from three months to 12 months and up). The removable tray is a great surface for baby to eat or play, and its lightweight design lends itself to easy transportation.
Where to buy: $100, amazon.ca
Fisher-Price Woodland Friends Space Saver Jumparoo
Your little one’s jumping and bouncing is rewarded with lights, music and sounds. The whole thing folds down flat for portable play or easy storage.
Where to buy: $65, walmart.ca
Huggies Little Snugglers
Designed for even the teeniest baby, Huggies Little Snugglers have a gentle cushioned liner that works hard to absorb while also protecting baby’s soft skin. Colour-changing technology lets you see when the diaper is wet, and the breathable outer cover is comfortable and shaped to protect the healing belly button. Ranging in size from preemie to newborn, these diapers are lotion and fragrance-free.
Where to buy: $38, walmart.ca
Mustela Gentle Shampoo
Gentle enough for even NICU babies, this no-tear formula (it won’t sting little eyes) shampoo is made in France and lightly scented. Geared for babes from birth to one, it’s dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic, making it the perfect thing to detangle and clean your wee one’s fine hair without drying their delicate scalp. Made of 93 percent natural ingredients, it’s free from paraben and phthalate.
Where to buy: $16, amazon.ca
Baby Brezza Formula Pro
Say goodbye to the time and hassle of manually preparing baby’s bottles. The ease and simplicity of the Baby Brezza Formula Pro mixed makes nurturing a breeze. The machine, which works with most major brands of formula, takes mere seconds to make warm bottles. And there is no fussing with mixing and measuring, either. It’s got you covered.
Where to buy: $200, amazon.ca
Angelcare AC417 Baby Breathing Video Monitor
Angelcare’s Baby Breathing Monitor with Video tracks activity and reports directly to concerned parents, giving them the ultimate peace of mind. The AC417’s touchscreen movement, video and audio monitor offers the only wireless breathing Sensor Pad on the market and features activity tracking, which reports on baby’s movement levels. Rest assured knowing that you will be alerted if no movement is detected after 20 seconds. Ideal for newborns and those starting to reach and explore.
Where to buy: $280, bestbuy.ca
Milkmakers Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookie Bites
Munchkin Milkmakers Cookie Bites are packed with all the delicious and natural ingredients lactation consultants routinely recommend for supporting and increasing a mama’s milk supply. These yummy little bites, packaged individually for easy snacking, include oats (which are packed with whole grains, fiber, iron, and an abundance of healthy vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants); brewer’s yeast (a traditional remedy, rich in B-vitamins and amino acids essential for nursing moms); and flax seed (which provides an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids necessary for baby’s brain development). Oh, and there are chocolate chips – and you can’t really go wrong with chocolate.
Where to buy: $30, bedbathandbeyond.ca
Nursh Silicone Pouch Bottle
It’s the best thing to happen to feeding since nipples. The revolutionary air-free feeding design of our NURSH™ Silicone Pouch Bottle features a 100% silicone pouch that collapses as your little one drinks, squeezing out the nasty gas-inducing air that causes colic. No straws, vents or valves here—so it’s a snap to clean and assemble. The silicone can even be boiled, sterilized, microwaved, and frozen.
Where to buy: $29.99, toysrus.ca
Nursery Water
Trusted by parents for over 70 years, this isn’t just any regular water. Purified using steam distillation, this process removes impurities in the water. Next an infusion of ozone is added to remove any remaining bacteria so you can add it to formula or a sippy cup with confidence.
Where to buy: nurserywater.com
Maple Leaf Natural Top Dogs
Forget the parent guilt associated with feeding your kids hot dogs. Maple Leaf Natural Top Dogs are made with premium meat and natural ingredients, nothing artificial. So let your kids have the food they love made with ingredients that parents love. With five varieties including Original, BBQ, Chicken, Less Salt and Singles, they’re available at grocery stores across Canada. Visit MapleLeaf.ca/TopDogsFacts to learn more.
Where to buy: $4, Loblaws.ca