by Michelle Stein posted in Products & Prizes

When I was pregnant with my first child and creating a baby registry, I filled it with items I would be using right away: A crib and mattress, a play pen, diapers and wipes, a swing.
You know, the obvious stuff.
Looking back now I see that I failed to envision a time beyond my baby's first year. Our registry was seriously lacking in toddler gear. Because we approached the registry process with tunnel vision, my husband and I were thrown for a loop when we woke up one day with a full-fledged toddler.
Don't be like me! If you're a mom- or dad-to-be and working on that first registry, here's my list of must-have toddler items to include.
1. Sippy cups: Whether your busy toddler is playing at home or out and about with you, spill-proof toddler cups like this Dr. Brown's insulated straw sports cup are where it's at -- they are dishwasher-safe or super easy to clean by hand, too.
2. Child-proofing gear: Curious toddlers love to explore the world around them. Unfortunately, the more dangerous the item, the more enticing it becomes for little fingers! To help save your sanity while keeping your child safe, be sure to stock up on the following: cabinet and drawer locks, door handle covers, electrical outlet covers, corner cushions, a stove lock, furniture anchors. Safety gates are another child-proofing essential -- just remember that gates that bolt into the wall are the only safe option for the top of stairways, though pressure-mou...