Home / Shop 6 must-have products for the toddler who says ‘I can do it myself’ Fostering independence in your toddler = #parentinggoals. By Colleen Temple and Cassandra Stone June 21, 2021 Rectangle One of our main goals as mothers is to encourage our children to learn, grow and play. They start out as our tiny, adorable babies who need us for everything , and somehow, before you know it, they grow into toddlers with ideas and opinions and desires of their own. You may be hearing a lot more of “I do it!” or maybe they’re pushing your hand away as a signal to let you know, I don’t need your help, Mama . That’s okay. Your toddler is just telling you they’re ready for more independence. They want to be in charge of their bodies, and any little bit of control their lives and abilities allow. So, instead of challenging your toddler’s desire for autonomy, we found six of our favorite products to help encourage independence—and eliminate frustration in the process. EKOBO Bamboo 4-piece kid set This colorful set includes a plate, cup, bowl and spoon and is just right for your child’s meal experience. Keep them in an easy-to-reach cabinet so they’ll feel encouraged (and excited!) to get their own place setting each time they eat. $25 Buy Now Puj PhillUp hangable kids cups Before you know it, your little one will be asking (okay, maybe demanding) to fill their own water cups. This amazing 4-pack of cups attaches directly to the fridge (or any glass, metal, tile or fiberglass surface) making it easier for your child to grab a cup themselves. Just be sure a water pitcher or dispenser is nearby, and—boom!—one task off your plate. $29 Buy Now Wise Elk puzzle tower blocks These beautiful blocks, made from sustainably-sourced wood and water-based, non-toxic, lead-free paint, will keep your little one focused on their creation while they’re also busy working on their fine-motor skills. The puzzle design will encourage patience as your kiddo creates their own building, fitting one block in after the next. $18 Buy Now Lorena Canals basket This *gorgeous* braided cotton basket is the perfect, accessible home for their blocks (and whatever else you want to hide away!) so your kiddo can grab them (and clean them up) whenever their heart desires. $65 Buy Now BABYBJÖRN step stool Your kiddo might be ready to take on the world, but they might need an extra boost to do so—cue, a step stool! An easy-to-move lightweight stool is the must-have confidence-boosting tool you need in your home so your growing tot can reach, well… the world. $20 Buy Now Play cleaning set Pitching in to help comes naturally to little ones. These kid-sized toys are a great way to get them involved in cleaning up after themselves. $38 Buy Now We independently select and share the products we love—and may receive a commission if you choose to buy. You’ve got this. The latest Shop Push presents: A trend that’s here to stay—or one we should skip? Shop 10 Thanksgiving family games and puzzles to keep everyone entertained this holiday Baby The TJ Maxx of baby gear: How to save big on top of brands for your little one Motherly Stories Donating breast milk saves lives—and is easier than you might think