Starting a new year at childcare or preschool is a major milestone for both you and your little one. Whether it’s their very first day or they are transitioning to a "big kid" room, being organised is the best way to reduce drop-off anxiety.

One lucky Aussie family will take it all home.

WHAT YOU’LL WIN (Prize Breakdown Section)

✨ The Ultimate Travel Bundle Includes:

• Ergobaby Upsie Baby Carrier — hands-free comfort from airports to adventures

• SlumberPod Privacy Pod — blackout sleep anywhere (hotels, Airbnbs, grandparents' house)

• SlumberPod Mini Fan — extra airflow + comfort for warm destinations

• SlumberPod Inflatable Toddler Bed — cosy, secure sleep on every trip

The bundle designed to take the stress out of travelling with babies, toddlers + preschoolers.

December school holidays are magical… and a little chaotic.

The kids are home.
Christmas excitement is at an all-time high.
You’re juggling wrapping, cooking, work, end-of-year everything... and somehow someone is still bored five minutes after breakfast.

If you’ve ever thought “I just need 20 minutes of quiet”, this one’s for you.

At Peekaboo Baby, we’ve put together a School Holiday Survival Kit (Christmas Edition) — a collection of low-mess, high-focus activities that genuinely keep kids busy while you get things done (or drink a hot coffee for once).

Why December School Holidays Need a Survival Kit

The Christmas school holidays are different to every other break.

There’s:

• More excitement (and sugar)

• More time at home

• Less structure

• A lot of “Mum, I’m bored”

The best school holiday activities for children during December need to be:

• Low mess

• Easy to set up

• Engaging for different ages

• Suitable for independent play

These are the activities parents come back to every year.

⭐Galt Activity Packs

Quiet, Creative School Holiday Activities

Galt activity packs are a school-holiday essential. Compact and engaging, they’re ideal for:

• Quiet mornings at home

• Car trips and travel

• Café visits

• Independent creative play

They support fine motor skills and creativity without creating a mess, making them perfect Christmas school holiday activities for kids who love hands-on play.

?View the Galt Flower Rings Activity Pack

⭐Little Brian Paint Sticks

No-Mess Painting for Kids

Painting is a favourite school holiday activity — but December isn’t the time for paint spills.

Little Brian Paint Sticks offer all the fun of painting with none of the stress:

• No water

• No brushes

• No spills

They’re perfect for:

• Christmas craft activities

• Holiday artwork

• Rainy school holiday days

Parents love them because they’re low-mess art supplies for kids, and kids love them because they feel like “real painting.

? Shop Little Brian Paint Sticks – Day Glow

⭐Aquabeads

Calm, Focused Craft Activities for Kids

Aquabeads are one of the quietest and most engaging kids' craft activities available.

Using water-activated beads (no ironing required), children can design pictures and patterns independently, making Aquabeads ideal for:

• Calm afternoons

• Independent school holiday play

• Reducing screen time during holidays

If you’re looking for quiet activities for kids during school holidays, Aquabeads are a favourite for good reason.

? Check out the Aquabeads Day on the Farm Craft Set

⭐Scratch Art Sets

Easy, No-Prep Holiday Activities

Scratch art is a go-to for instant engagement with zero setup.

The Melissa & Doug Paw Patrol Scratch Art – Marshall set is especially popular for:

• Entertaining kids at parties

• Travel and outings

• Quiet play at home

Kids love the surprise of revealing colours, and parents love that scratch art requires no glue, paint or cleanup.

? Check out the Melissa & Doug Scratch Art

⭐Sticker WOW! Activity Pads

Portable, Low-Mess Fun for Busy Days

Sticker WOW! Activity Padsare perfect for December when you’re on the go. These are my toddlers' absolute favourites.

They’re:

• Reusable

• Compact

• Easy for kids to manage independently

Great for:

• Errands

• Car trips

• Waiting rooms

• Busy Christmas days

If you’re searching for low-mess sticker activities for kids, this is a parent favourite.

? View Sticker WOW! Dog Activity Pad

Why These School Holiday Activities Actually Work

Every product in this School Holiday Survival Kit was chosen because it ticks the boxes parents care about:

✔ Low mess
✔ High engagement
✔ Easy to pull out anytime
✔ Suitable for different ages
✔ Encourages creativity and focus

They’re not just fun. They’re practical. And during school holidays, practicality matters.

A Calmer Christmas Starts with the Right Activities

You don’t need to plan every minute of the school holidays.

You need a few reliable school holiday boredom busters that buy you time, calm and flexibility.

Whether you’re wrapping gifts, preparing Christmas lunch, or simply taking a breather, these kids' activity packs and craft sets make December (and January) more manageable and more enjoyable.

Because a calmer parent usually means a happier Christmas✨

------

Frequently Asked Questions About School Holiday Activities

What are the best low-mess school holiday activities for kids?

Low-mess school holiday activities include sticker activity pads, paint sticks, scratch art, and water-activated craft kits like Aquabeads. These options keep kids engaged without creating a big clean-up — perfect for busy holiday periods.

How can I keep kids busy during the Christmas school holidays?

A simple way is to create a small “school holiday survival kit” with a few reliable activities you can rotate throughout the week. Craft kits, sticker pads and creative sets help reduce boredom while encouraging independent play.

What are good quiet activities for kids during school holidays?

Quiet activities include Aquabeads, scratch art sets, and sticker activity pads. These encourage focus and creativity and are ideal for independent play, travel, or calmer moments at home.

Are paint sticks less messy than regular paint?

Yes. Paint sticks don’t require water or brushes, making them a popular low-mess alternative to traditional paints. They’re easier for kids to control and ideal for school holiday craft time.

What ages are these school holiday activity kits best for?

These activities suit a range of ages, depending on the child’s interests and abilities. Sticker pads and scratch art are often great for younger kids, while Aquabeads and more detailed craft kits work well for older children. Always check the age guide on each product page.

What activities are included in Peekaboo Baby’s School Holiday Survival Kit?

This guide features five parent-approved boredom busters: Sticker WOW! Sticker Stamper & Activity Pad (Dog), Galt Flower Rings Activity Pack, Aquabeads Day on the Farm Craft Set, Little Brian Paint Sticks Day Glow 6 Pack, and Melissa & Doug Paw Patrol Scratch Art (Marshall).

What are good screen-free activities for kids during the holidays?

Screen-free activities like craft kits, sticker activities, scratch art and paint sticks encourage creativity, fine motor skills and independent play while giving kids a break from screens.

Creating a belly cast is a beautiful way to capture a moment in your pregnancy that you’ll never get back. A belly cast creates a 3D mould of your baby bump, turning it into a keepsake you can display, decorate or treasure for years to come.

Whether you’re doing this as a quiet DIY project with your partner or as a fun baby shower activity, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to make a belly cast at home safely and efficiently.

What Is a Belly Cast?

Layering plaster strips makes a belly cast over your baby bump to create a mould. Once it dries, you’re left with a solid cast that captures the shape and size of your bump at that exact stage of pregnancy.

Many mums choose to paint or decorate their belly cast and display it in the nursery as a meaningful pregnancy keepsake.

What You Need to Make a Belly Cast

While it’s possible to buy individual supplies, using a complete kit makes the process much easier and safer, especially during pregnancy.

We recommend using a purpose-made kit like the Pearhead Belly Casting Kit, which includes everything you need.

• Plaster casting strips
• Skin-safe, non-latex lubricant
• Protective drop sheet
• Gloves
• Clear instructions

How to Make a Belly Cast at Home (Step by Step)

1. Prepare your space

Choose a warm, comfortable area and lay down a protective drop sheet to keep surfaces clean.

2. Apply the skin-safe lubricant

Apply the included lubricant generously to your belly and surrounding areas. This prevents the plaster from sticking to your skin and makes removal easy.

3. Prepare the plaster strips

Cut the plaster strips into manageable lengths and dip them into warm water before applying.

4. Apply the plaster strips

Gently place the wet plaster strips over your baby bump, smoothing each strip as you go. Build up several layers to ensure the cast is strong.

5. Let the cast set

Allow the plaster to set for around 15 to 20 minutes. Once firm, carefully lift the cast off your body.

6. Allow to fully dry

Leave the cast to air dry completely for 24 to 48 hours before decorating or sealing.

Decorating Your Belly Cast

Once dry, you can personalise your belly cast by:

• Painting it in neutral or nursery colours
• Adding your baby’s name or due date
• Using ribbons, flowers or decals
• Sealing it for long-term display

Is Belly Casting Safe?

Yes, when done correctly using non-toxic, skin-safe materials. Always choose a kit designed specifically for pregnancy and follow the instructions carefully.

The Pearhead Belly Casting Kit is designed with expecting mums in mind and uses safe materials when used as directed.

Is a Belly Cast a Good Baby Shower Activity?

Absolutely. Belly casting is a popular baby shower activity because it’s interactive, meaningful and creates a lasting memory. Guests can even help apply strips or decorate the cast together.

Where to Buy a Belly Casting Kit in Australia

If you’re looking for a simple, reliable option, you can shop the Pearhead Belly Casting Kit at Peekaboo Baby .

We offer fast Australia-wide shipping and carefully selected pregnancy keepsakes that help you celebrate every stage of your journey.

(Founder-tested. Toddler-approved.)

If you’ve ever tried Christmas shopping for a 1–2 year old, you’ll know it’s equal parts adorable and overwhelming. They’re in that magical little age where they wobble, giggle, explore cupboards they shouldn’t, and suddenly decide that a wooden spoon is the best toy on earth.

As a mum of three, and after years of curating toys at Peekaboo Baby, I’ve learnt which gifts actually get used… and which end up at the bottom of the toy basket by New Year’s Day.

So here it is - a simple, thoughtful guide for Christmas gifts that truly support play, learning, and those beautiful toddler milestones.

1. Active Play & Movement

This is the age where they’re constantly on the move. Waddling. Running. Trying to climb things you wish they wouldn’t.

Gift ideas that burn off the wiggles:

• Ride-on toys and trikes
  At this age, toddlers are mastering balance. A sturdy wooden trike helps build gross motor skills and burns off that pre-nap energy. The Skip Hop Ride-On 3-in-1 is fantastic because it grows with your toddler.
• Push and pull walkers.
  These support the development of gross motor skills and muscle strength, while giving toddlers the freedom to explore at their own pace.
• Soft play blocks and tunnels
  Perfect for crawling, climbing, building and knocking down. These help toddlers strengthen their core muscles and coordination safely.

These help with coordination, confidence, and that toddler “I can do it myself” energy we secretly love.

2. Pretend Play & Imagination

Between one and two, pretend play really blooms. It’s when they start “feeding” teddy, making pretend calls, or copying your kitchen routine (minus the mess… hopefully).

Cute and creative options:

• Mini play kitchens & food sets
  Everyone loves to play cooking and cutting. Let them mimic your cooking or cleaning - a safe way to start understanding everyday tasks while practising fine motor skills. Invest in a wooden pretend food set for durability — these make beautiful keepsakes to pass down through siblings. We love the Melissa & Doug 21 Piece Wooden Food Groups.
• Soft dolls and plush toy friends
  Toddlers love a good cuddly buddy to have adventures with or to sleep with as a bedtime plushie. Gund soft toys are always a classic and have lots of baby-safe toys.
• Dress-up accessories

These gifts encourage language, curiosity, and those heart-melting moments when they hand you pretend tea.

3. Learning & Development

Chunky puzzles, stacking toys — this is the time to add foundations for problem-solving and fine motor skills without making it feel like “learning”.

Top picks:

• Stacking cups & nesting toys
  These are such a great starter toy for any household. Kids play with these from baby age right through to early primary school. These support spatial awareness, cognitive development, fine motor skills, and early problem-solving - such major developmental milestones!
• Wooden chunky puzzles
  Chunky puzzles are great for beginners and little fingers to grasp. Bonus play: toddler loves playing with the chunky pieces separately, too, for double the fun! We love the Melissa & Doug Vehicle Chunky Puzzle Set at our place.
• Shape sorters & activity cubes.
  These Montessori-inspired gifts encourage purposeful, hands-on play and help toddlers explore independently.

Simple, open-ended toys make the most significant difference at this age.

4. Creative & Quiet Time

Toddlers and quiet time in the same sentence? Yes — it is possible. You need the right tools.

Calming and creative gifts:

• First crayons, paint sticks, and toddler-safe art supplies
  Our popular Little Brian Paint Sticks are so suitable for no-mess painting fun inside (or outside) the house
• Busy boards and lacing toys
  Great for encouraging fine motor development and independent quiet play, especially during travel, car rides, or naptime. Lacing wooden sneakers is a great educational toy for toddlers.
• Soft books & interactive sound books
  Invest in soft books or board books for durability, so you don't have to worry about pages ripping, and they make clean up easy (cos toddlers are messy little humans)

Great for plane trips, car rides, or just giving mum and dad five minutes to finish a hot cuppa.

5. Sensory & Exploration

Sensory play isn’t just fun — it’s incredible for brain development. And honestly, watching a toddler splash with bath toys is peak cuteness.

Sensory-friendly gifts:

• Musical instruments
  There’s something magical about watching a toddler discover sound. Simple instruments like shakers, mini drums, and xylophones help little ones experiment with rhythm while strengthening hand–eye coordination. Music also supports early language development — every bang, tap, and jingle becomes a lesson in cause and effect. Plus, toddlers love being part of “family music time,” even if their version is… enthusiastically off-beat. Our Melody Mix Discovery Toy is one of our top selling toys for a good reason!
  
  
• Bath toys & water play
  Bath toys are always so popular for both parents and kids. Bath time isn’t just about getting clean — for toddlers, it’s one of the easiest places to learn through play. Water toys encourage pouring, scooping, filling and emptying, which introduces the earliest concepts of measurement and problem-solving. Bath toys can also double as outdoor water play toys - perfect for the Aussie heat!
• Sensory balls & soft books
  Toddlers explore the world through their senses, and textured balls or soft fabric books give them so much to touch, squeeze, flip, and investigate. These toys help develop fine motor skills and strengthen little hand muscles as they poke, press, and grasp different textures. Soft books also build early literacy skills - even if they’re mostly being chewed on or carried from room to room. They’re safe, durable, and perfect for quiet time, pram rides, and long summer holidays

Expect giggles. Lots of giggles.

6. Cosy & Practical Gifts

Because let’s be real… parents appreciate gifts that are cute and useful.

Everyday essentials that still feel special:

• Soft blankets & sleep sacks
  Everyday essentials for comfort and safety, but still feel like a treat when chosen with care.
• Hooded towels & bathrobes
  Perfect after the bath, beach or pool. Look for soft, absorbent fabrics that keep little ones warm and cosy. We love these hooded towels over here.
• Plush playmats and rugs
  Great as a soft “home base” for toddlers to play safely (and for parents to feel at ease).

These are the gifts that get used long after Christmas is over.

Final Thoughts

Choosing Christmas gifts for 1–2-year-olds doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on items that support their milestones, spark curiosity, and bring joy to everyday routines. And if you’re shopping for a tiny human who already has “everything,” practical gifts always win. 

You can also shop our full collection of toddler toys right here at 1-2 Year Old Gifts  

When I first saw the Ergobaby Upsie Sling, I didn’t expect it to become my go-to carrier for quick errands without the pram, park walks, and those clingy toddler days. But here we are, one stylish sling, five solid reasons I’m obsessed.

1. It’s effortless.
No complicated straps, no origami-style wrapping. Just slip it on, tighten the strap if needed, and you’re ready to go. It’s parenting made simpler, and that’s rare.

2. It looks good (really good).
Soft, breathable fabric meets minimal design. It's definitely a more minimalist carrier that doesn't have any distracting elements.But it has a phone holder, which is like a bonus, a must-have for any parent.

3. It grows with your baby.
From those snuggly newborn days to curious toddler adventures, the Upsie adapts beautifully. One investment that actually lasts the journey, and I love good value like that! Because, toddlers want to be carried a lot too...and they're heavvyyyyy.

4. It’s lightweight but strong.
No bulky padding or sweaty layers, just supportive, soft comfort that makes you forget you’re even wearing it (until your baby drifts off to sleep on your chest… and your heart melts a little). It didn't feel too heavy and awkward. My toddler can pop in and out easily, and I can just wear the sling around until I know they wanna pop back in again.

5. Both parents can use it easily.
No tricky adjustments or one-size-fits-one setups here. The Upsie Sling is simple to share between partners, grandparents, or carers, making it the most versatile carrier in the house. Again, effortless and simple to get going and share the load of parenting.

Discover the Ergobaby Upsie Sling Carrier at Peekaboo Baby

There’s a reason musical toys have stood the test of time (and toddler tantrums). Beyond the cute singalongs and toe-tapping tunes, these little instruments pack a serious developmental punch. Whether it’s a gentle shaker or a mini xylophone, here’s why musical toys deserve a spot in your toy rotation.

1. They Boost Brain Development
Research shows that musical play supports early brain development, especially in areas linked to language and spatial awareness. Simply banging on a drum or pressing a musical button can help build neural connections — all while your bub is just having a boogie.

2. They Help With Fine Motor Skills
From grasping maracas to tapping tambourines, musical toys encourage movement and hand-eye coordination. Over time, these small actions help toddlers develop better control of their fingers, wrists, and hands (hello, future piano player!).

3. They Encourage Self-Expression
Even the tiniest tots love to make noise — and musical toys give them a fun, creative outlet to explore their emotions. Whether they’re feeling excited, calm or just plain cheeky, giving them a chance to express themselves through sound is a win for everyone.

4. They Build Listening & Focus Skills
Musical toys introduce concepts like rhythm, tempo and cause-and-effect, all of which help with active listening. And let’s be honest — anything that helps toddlers improve their attention span (even for a few minutes) is gold.

5. They Make Playtime Screen-Free & Meaningful
Looking for a screen-free activity that won’t result in chaos across the kitchen table? Musical play ticks all the boxes. With our range of musical toys — including sweet pull-along instruments, sound-making plush toys and sturdy wooden classics — your child can stay happily entertained while developing core skills.

Final Note?
Musical toys don’t just make noise — they make memories. So next time you’re thinking of a gift or toy box update, reach for something with a beat. Your little one’s development (and dance moves) will thank you

Sip Smart: Why Stainless Steel Bottles Are a Game-Changer for Families

As a parent, I’ve gone through my fair share of water bottles—plastic ones that cracked, glass ones that gave me a mini heart attack when they slipped from tiny hands, and those dodgy ones that left water tasting… off. But then, I discovered stainless steel bottles, and let me tell you—it was a total game-changer.

If you’re still on the fence about making the switch, here’s why stainless steel bottles are an absolute win for Aussie families.

1. Tough Enough for Tiny Tornadoes

Kids are basically little scientists testing the laws of gravity 24/7. One minute they’re happily sipping away, the next—boom! Their bottle is rolling across the floor (or worse, down a flight of stairs). Stainless steel bottles can take the hits and keep going. No cracks, no leaks, no stress.

2. No More Funky Smells or Tastes

Ever taken a sip from a plastic bottle and thought, Why does this taste like last week’s juice? That’s because plastic absorbs odours and flavours over time. Stainless steel? Not a chance. Water stays fresh, and there’s no lingering aftertaste.

3. Keeps Drinks Hot or Cold for HOURS

Whether it’s warm milk on a winter morning or icy water for a summer arvo at the park, stainless steel bottles do the job right. Say goodbye to lukewarm disappointment and hello to drinks that stay just the way your little one likes them.

4. Safer for Little Sippers

Plastic bottles can contain all sorts of questionable chemicals (looking at you, BPA). With stainless steel, there’s zero risk of nasties leaching into your child’s drink. It’s peace of mind in bottle form.

5. A More Eco-Friendly Choice

Every time we choose a reusable bottle over a disposable plastic one, we’re doing our part for the planet. Stainless steel bottles last for years, meaning less waste and fewer bottles ending up in landfill or our oceans. Plus, they just look way better.

6. Easy to Clean, Easy to Love

No one has time for fiddly bottle cleaning. Stainless steel bottles are super easy to clean—just rinse, wash, and you’re good to go. Most are even dishwasher-safe (aka, a lifesaver for busy parents). I also feel like stainless stain don't get as gunky as other bottles. But that could just be my experience over the last 10 years with my kid's bottles.

Our Top Picks for Stainless Steel Bottles

Ready to make the switch? We’ve got some stylish and practical options that kids will love!

• Skip Hop Wander Stainless Steel Water Bottle - Ombre Pink – Stylish, durable, and perfect for on-the-go hydration.
• Skip Hop Stainless Steel Canteen Bottle - Pink – Insulated, easy to use, and keeps drinks just the way your little one likes them.

The Next Step: A Bottle That Grows With Your Child

If your little one is growing up and starting to want what Mum and Dad have, then you’ll love the new Wanderer range by Skip Hop. With its sleek ombre design, it’s the perfect choice for older kids who are after a more sophisticated look—just like Mum and Dad’s trendy coffee flasks. It’s the ideal mix of style and function, making hydration cool for kids who are too grown up for cutsey bottles.

Check out the Wanderer range now and grab one before they’re gone!?

Introducing "Trellis" – a nappy bag brand inspired by the way parents support and nurture their children’s growth, just like a trellis to a plant. Our nappy bags are your sidekick, practical and comfortable for your parenting journey. We know parenting is full of challenges and joy so our bags are here to make every moment easier, so you can focus on what really matters – watching your little one grow. With Trellis you have the support you need, just like your child has in you.

--------

We chose the name "Trellis" to represent the nurturing role of a parent and the supportive nature of a trellis. A trellis is a structure that supports the growth of a plant, allowing it to reach its full potential, just like parents support and guide their children through the early years.

Much like a trellis cradles a climbing vine, providing the structure and stability for it to flourish, parents provide the love, care and guidance for their children to grow. The trellis doesn’t dictate the direction of the vine’s growth; it simply provides a steady framework for it to find its own way to the sun. In the same way parents encourage their children to explore the world, to learn and grow in their own way.

These nappy bags are your sidekick, holding all the essentials you need to care for your little one. They are designed to support you in your daily tasks, practical and comfortable so you can focus on what matters most.

We hope our nappy bags are a gentle reminder to you, that no matter what life throws at you, you have the support you need to help your little one grow. Just like a trellis to a vine.

Shop our nappy bag range now: Click Here