Over the last 55 years, the signs of puberty have appeared earlier and earlier. In 2024, JAMA Network Open conducted a study that recorded data about menarche from more than 70,000 women. Their findings revealed adolescent females as young as 10 years old experience their first periods.

If you have a daughter who hasn't hit puberty yet, knowing the early signs is important so that you can be prepared to support her when the time comes. Keep reading to find out more about the psychology behind puberty and some of the earliest signs in young girls.

Understanding the Psychology Behind Puberty

Growing up as a girl in today's world is a challenging experience. It feels impossible to distinguish between society's added pressure, social media standards, and the world's perception of who you should be. As a mom, understanding the changes happening in your daughter's body can put you at ease as you help her navigate this important time in her life.

Jordan Conrad, Ph.D., L.C.S.W., and Founder and Clinical Director of Madison Park Psychotherapy, gave us the rundown on everything happening during puberty. “It is sometimes hard to appreciate the significance of this period for kids, and the physical aspects of puberty are just one part,” says Conrad. “Many kids at this age become more responsive to what is ‘cool' and what is ‘popular' and try to model themselves after kids that seem that way. It is a natural time to start engaging in what is sometimes called ‘perception management' — or, controlling how other people perceive you. After all, your body is changing, there are new kids, sports and school are getting more serious – it makes sense to try to reinvent yourself a little bit.”

It’s not uncommon for the first signs of puberty to be psychological. Mood swings, stark changes in self-esteem, and outward behavior toward family and friends are all mile markers. 

During puberty, estrogen, gonadotropins, and adrenal hormones are elevated, causing outward physical changes that can sometimes be obvious. However, many of these changes can manifest as behavioral changes or significant differences in your daughter's personality.

“In middle school, adults start looking more closely, and kids feel that,” Conrad explains. “You may have liked math in fifth grade, but in sixth grade, you might have a teacher trying to sort you into an advanced class or a remedial class; soccer was fun, and you were good at it, but now practices are more serious, and coaches and parents expect more from you.

“As a result, kids tend to form more stratified social groups around this time: you become a smart kid or a jock or a popular kid or the class clown. In many cases, kids move from relatively small elementary schools to larger middle schools, feeding into even larger high schools, meaning that a whole new set of people is also judging you!”

Conrad also details that this can be a time of upheaval for your daughter. Friendships become broken, fitting in is tough, and interests change. From a psychological point of view, this can have an effect on girls that often goes unrealized and even unnoticed.

“That leaves many girls walking on eggshells, needing to manage not only their parent's expectations and classwork, but another whole world of micro-indicators of status,” says Conrad. This perception of how an adolescent girl fits into the social world around her might be a sign that menarche is already in play, and her period is not far behind. 

The Physical Signs of Puberty

Aside from the psychological symptoms and mood changes a young girl might experience, puberty causes a slew of physical symptoms. These changes are often uncomfortable but shouldn't be unexpected. Here’s how each one shows up during the earliest stages of menarche. 

Body Hair

As more hormones in the body are released, peach fuzz is replaced by darker, coarser hair. During puberty, hair can grow anywhere – from the underarms to the genitals. This is an early sign that your body is changing! Girls may want to start shaving, so it’s important to have a conversation on how to do so safely. 

Height Increases or Growth Spurts

The biggest weight increases for girls happen during puberty. This is typically when growth spurts happen, and girls seemingly find they’ve gained several inches overnight. It’s normal to see sudden changes in height since additional growth is rarely seen after a girl’s teenage years. 

More Feminine Curves

Puberty changes many aspects of the human body, including hips and height. Getting taller is perfectly normal but may not happen to every girl, at least not immediately. Girls will also notice their hips widening in proportion to their waist, which may seem smaller. 

Breast Budding

There’s no part of puberty that any girl should be ashamed of, including breast budding. Breasts often grow at different rates and feel sore or achy for some time during puberty. When this happens, it never hurts to have a conversation about bras and other changes that will soon follow. 

Acne and Skin Changes

Unfortunately, acne is a common symptom of puberty due to the increase in hormones and dealing with acne can be incredibly challenging for adolescents. Conversations about good hygiene, face washing, and self-esteem are key to surviving this phase. 

Periods

Perhaps one of the scariest parts of puberty for girls is the day Aunt Flo arrives. No matter how many conversations you have with your daughter about periods, it may still be a surprise on that first day. Creating a safe space with no shame is a great way to be supportive. Despite how uncomfortable it may feel in the moment, this will reaffirm that puberty is a normal part of growing up.

Anxiety is Directly Related to Puberty — Here's How You Can Help

An unfortunate side effect of puberty is often anxiety, which can manifest in many different ways. It rears its ugly head during mood swings or surfaces as your child needs more space than usual. It's normal to experience during this time — but it doesn't need to be a problem without a solution.

Conrad explains that social anxiety is more prevalent among adolescent girls, although it's less recognized. It can also predict academic underachievement, weaker social relationships, and poorer social skills. “Unfortunately, there is substantial evidence suggesting that social anxiety increases as puberty progresses. This is also largely true for depression—it is more common in adolescent girls than in boys and tends to worsen as pubertal development continues.”

While anything can trigger anxiety during puberty, Conrad explains that sometimes it's truly an inevitable part of the process. “Interestingly, unlike social anxiety and depression—both of which are strongly linked to environmental factors such as smartphones, social media, and volatile friend groups—adolescent mood swings are not always related to stress, social problems, or inner turmoil but appear to be a natural part of adolescence.”

This highlights why therapy can play a vital role in navigating puberty. It might even look like regular visits with your daughter's school counselor. “As with many things, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” says Conrad.

Therapy Can Offer Neutral, Yet Steady Support

Mood swings, lashing out, or even girls distancing themselves from family are not uncommon during puberty. Turning to their parents for support might feel awkward or uncomfortable. Therefore, girls naturally gravitate more toward their friends during this time. So, we wanted to know what to do if this behavior seems abnormal or if parents find their daughters isolated.

“Kids, especially when they crest into teenagers, become much more interested in their phones and their friends than their parents, but parents should watch out for their child becoming increasingly isolated,” Conrad says, adding that it can be challenging today since teens are more likely to spend time on their phones or alone in their rooms. However, some subtle indicators are red flags for parents to watch out for.

“If they seem angry or sad more often than usual, or if you hear from your daughter or other parents or teachers about big changes in friend groups, that can give you hints that things aren't going so well.”

Conrad goes on to say that, in any case, therapy can often be a strong support during puberty. It provides a neutral ground on which tweens can express how they feel in a safe space. This also removes societal and peer pressure, which can cause stress.

“A therapist might be the only person in your life at that time who doesn't need you to be any particular way other than who you naturally are,” says Conrad. He adds that the lack of pressure can allow walls to fall away, inviting teens into a space where they can simply be themselves and no one forces them to communicate or behave in any certain way.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Halfpoint/Shutterstock.com.

The post The Signs of Puberty in Girls That Every Mom Needs to Know appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Puberty is one of the most challenging things to go through as a tween. For girls, fights with friends or failed tests are nothing compared to mood swings, body changes, and the anxious anticipation of their period. This time is filled with so much uncertainty, confusion, and even fear that's not only felt by girls, but by parents as well.

When you see the first signs that your baby girl is going through it, your thoughts might start racing. You feel wholly unprepared — and that's normal! It's also why we spoke to an expert in the field so you know exactly what to expect. Here's how to navigate puberty confidently with your daughter.

Navigating the Relationship Between Daughter and Parent

We spoke to Shayna Barksdale, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), founder of Austin Therapy for Girls, and author of Pink Chaos, about the dynamic between teens and moms during puberty. Conversations about puberty can still feel taboo and tainted by a negative stigma – but this makes these conversations even more critical. Girls grow up at a faster rate in today's world, and experts are noticing this change, too.

“These days, many girls are starting to develop breasts and other signs of puberty as early as 6 or 7 — and no one knows why. What we do know is that there’s a correlation between the early onset of puberty and higher rates of depression and anxiety, as well as lower self-esteem and poorer body image,” explains Barksdale.

Despite being educated on menses, she says many clients still hide that they've started their cycle from their parents. While there's never a concrete answer as to why, Barksdale says feeling different from their peers and not wanting to be judged has something to do with it.

This can also cause tension in the relationships between moms and daughters. Barksdale points out they may even be experiencing hormonal changes together.

“The bottom line — as tween girls enter puberty at younger ages, this significantly impacts many areas of their lives, causing their emotions to feel more intense, especially regarding friendships and the desire to fit in,” she says. “Simultaneously, mothers are beginning to experience perimenopause, which also intensifies their emotional experiences. That means the mother-daughter relationship, already one with stormy waters, can also be affected by the shifts in hormones of both tweens and their moms, leaving everyone feeling overwhelmed. This can feel a lot like being on a roller coaster — full of ups and downs and unexpected twists and turns.”

Children might favor one parent over the other as this mother-daughter dynamic changes. It's not uncommon but does require understanding and, above all, patience.

Encouraging Confidence During Puberty, Despite Society's Rules

According to Barksdale, research shows the number of girls describing themselves as confident declines more than 25 percent throughout middle school. She adds from 2017 to 2023, researchers showed a 13 percent drop in girls’ confidence, with fifth-grade girls experiencing the biggest decline.

“Puberty certainly accounts for some of these confidence challenges. However, girls also receive intense messaging — from media and society — but also from family members or other adults in their world who have received this same messaging regarding ideal body shape, size, and image,” explains Barksdale.

Social media hasn't done teenage girls any favors when it comes to accepting, loving, and embracing who they are. Sadly, this is reflected during puberty, which is already the most vulnerable phase of a girl's life.

“It’s also important to note that a growth spurt usually happens right before a girl’s first period, and while she’ll gain strength and coordination, her body will also gain fat in new or different areas, which could bring on body issues,” Barksdale says.

Parents should pay attention to sudden changes in their daughter's mood or confidence, especially surrounding body image.

“While body image is only one aspect of girls’ confidence, I think the complexity of this issue helps show how much girls are navigating these days,” Barksdale explains. “And, like so many things, it's showing up earlier and earlier. I hear statements like, ‘when I look in the mirror, all I see is that my thighs are just too big' from girls as young as third grade.”

Parents may not be pressuring their daughters, but it doesn't mean they don't feel it from other places. Barksdale reveals that societal pressure can come from unexpected places: sports, grades, or social media. “It is crucial for parents to monitor external messaging, particularly for daughters aged 9 to 12. Create an environment where daughters feel comfortable sharing with their caregivers about the messages they encounter,” says Barksdale.

Combatting the Effects of Toxic Beauty Standards

In a study conducted by Dove, nine in 10 girls followed accounts on social media that made them feel “less beautiful.” Add to this staggering 90%, another 56% of girls polled admitted that they feel “unable to live up to those unrealistic beauty standards.”

A whopping 80% of girls expressed a desire to have open communication with their parents about managing toxic beauty standards. Barksdale not only agrees with this but encourages it. “It's essential to address moments when they [girls] begin to judge themselves. This open communication is key to fostering their self-esteem.” She also offers these tips:

• Guide your daughter in reality-checking the messages she receives to strengthen the “bounce back” factor
• Educate your daughter on how companies modify and create idealized (unrealistic) standards, then empower her to critically evaluate the media
• Encourage your daughter to question what she sees and hears, fostering an understanding that not everything presented is a reflection of reality

“This awareness can help her build resilience against societal pressures and develop a healthier self-image,” says Barksdale.

Empowering the Mother-Daughter Dynamic During Puberty

The relationship between moms and daughters goes through many ups and downs when puberty hits. It's not always pretty, but it can be withstood and even empowered in many ways.

“In my practice, I frequently observe that the biggest influence on young girls — particularly regarding their body image and perception of weight — comes from their mothers. Therefore, it's an important moment for moms of daughters to reflect on their own body relationships and the messages they may be conveying,” Barksdale says. She adds that caregivers play a crucial role in helping their daughters navigate these changes.

“Children are like sponges, absorbing not only what caregivers say about their bodies but also paying close attention to how their mothers discuss their own body image. One of our favorite lessons at Austin Therapy for Girls is to remind caregivers of the Brené Brown quote ‘Talk to yourself like you would talk to someone you love.' When it comes to our bodies we must talk to our bodies with respect. Our daughters are listening.”

Shayna Barksdale

Talking Friendships, Menstruation, and Taboo Topics

Menstruation is a topic that still feels taboo for many even though it's a normal part of life. We asked Barksdale when parents should start this conversation with their daughters, and her answer was reassuring: “‘Never too early' is the motto of most parenting experts,” Barksdale says. “Begin teaching your daughter about her body parts at a very early age. Then, once the groundwork is established, talking about menstruation becomes less intimidating.”

Once again, sensitivity will play a crucial role in the dynamic between parents — especially moms — and their daughters. “Empathy is the key for any caregiver who is helping their daughter navigate puberty. Caregivers can show empathy in particular by validating the feelings of the daughter. For example, stating that you understand that they might not feel their best physically or mentally during that time of the month,” says Barksdale.

Relating to your daughter reinforces an understanding of what she's going through, and strengthens the connection she has when seeking comfort during difficult times.

However, Barksdale also cautions that parents should also be prepared to deal with the opposite. Tweens seeking comfort from their friends or peers is not uncommon. This can coincide with menses and all that comes with it, so it's normal for your daughter to crave more space.

“Tweens are going to pull away from their moms, and friendships are going to start to become very important for tweens. That’s normal. Friendships are important and can improve and encourage better mental health,” she says, adding these same friendships can also be a source of anxiety and future mental health problems.

“There is a myth of the Forever BFF, but the truth is that friendships come and go. Over time, we all grow and change in different ways, and we need to teach our daughters to understand and even expect that.”

It's tough for a parent to explain this and even watch it happen, but it's simply part of growing up. As a parent, you may struggle in knowing what is too much when it comes to helping and guiding your daughter through this time. Barksdale explains that knowing when to step in depends on several factors. “The approach may vary based on the issue and your daughter's age. Generally, it's advisable to allow her to navigate friendship challenges independently. Nevertheless, as a caregiver, your role is to provide a safe place to land for her to turn to when these difficulties occur — and they will.”

The image featured at the top of this post is ©DimaBerlin/Shutterstock.com.

The post My Daughter’s Hit Puberty. HELP! appeared first on Moms Who Think.

The struggle to find a diaper bag that's roomy, multipurpose, and durable is all too common for parents. It's an essential item, of course, but the issues are many: One bag is too small, another has awkward compartments, and another feels too cheap. To avoid the hassle of comparing things like durability to storage space when finding the perfect diaper bag, this roundup will save you the effort.

Bags by the Ocean Diaper Bag

• Price: $79.99
• Dimensions: 12”L x 16.5”H x 8”W

For moms who prefer a backpack option to the more traditional shoulder bag, the Bags by the Ocean Diaper Bag unites comfort and an effortless style. Not only is this bag's sky blue and gray color scheme both eye-catching and stylish, but it's also user-friendly for parents. It offers the most storage you're likely to see in a backpack-style diaper bag with multiple compartments:

• Three bottle pockets for longer trips
• Two outer pockets for easy access
• Five inner zippered pockets for safe storage
• Two slip pockets for small items
• Two elastic pockets for easy-to-reach supplies

Bags by the Ocean has considered everything in the design of this bag, even down to an insulated bottle pocket. It's perfect for travel and with a dedicated wipes slot, it makes for a great first-time parent gift, too.

Product of the North Sustainable Elkin Diaper Bag Backpack

• Price: $99.99
• Dimensions: 16.5”H x 11.5”W x 7.5”D

Product of the North prides itself on creating sustainable wares, and the Elkin Diaper Bag Backpack lives up to that eco-friendly promise. It's also oversized compared to the average bag, giving parents an option that's both environmentally forward and abundantly roomy. It also costs under $100, which makes it an affordable option for first-time parents.

From the outside, this bag looks like nothing more than a fashionable backpack that is undoubtedly built to last. On the inside, this bag features a large zippered compartment, various slot compartments, mesh organizers, and even a padded laptop compartment for working parents on the go. Ready for a bonus? The Elkin also features a removable changing pad, making it hard to believe this sustainably-made diaper bag is made of recycled plastic bottles.

Harmony Handcrafted Co. Waxed Canvas Tote Bag

• Price: $104.46 on sale, normally $208.93
• Dimensions: 6.7”L x 13.4”H x 15.7”W

The beautiful thing about this tote bag is not only is it completely handmade, but it also offers versatility in spades. The Waxed Canvas Tote Bag by Harmony Handcrafted Co. is the type of investment you can use for years. First, it's a diaper bag – but it can also become a laptop bag, work bag, or even an everyday purse later on.

By combining the durability of waxed canvas with vegetable-tanned genuine leather, you've got a bag that will outlast most of its competition, if not all of it. The more use this bag gets, the better it will look – and parents will get plenty of use from it with:

• Five total interior compartments
• An interior holder for keychains
• Full convertibility with straps to use as a backpack, tote, or crossbody bag
• A full YKK zipper enclosure

This bag is already top-of-the-line, but parents also have the option for free monogramming with their purchase – practical and sentimental make this a solid investment.

Cowkid Clothing Company Prairie Rose Diaper Bag Backpack

• Price: $59.99
• Dimensions: 16″ x 12″, with 2″-3″ side expansion

Cowkid Clothing Company's Prairie Rose Diaper Bag Backpack may look simple, but you'd never guess that this stylish (and cute!) bag hides 13 pockets. Its price point is tough to beat, but parents will get so much use out of this bag that it would be worth double. Featuring an adorable Western-style design with classic horse and rose patterning on the outside, this bag is a showstopper. A touch of faux leather detailing on the exterior pockets and handles makes this diaper bag sturdy, and a waterproof interior adds to its durability.

Storage is key to the success of this bag, though, and truly allows it to grow with parents vs. just being used for a year or two:

• Two side pockets for easy-to-grab items
• Insulated front pocket for up to three baby bottles
• Interior pockets of varying sizes for a range of items, from clothes to snacks

With a unique side expansion feature, this bag literally grows with your child's belongings.

The Kaitlyn by Sleepy Panda

• Price: $99.99
• Dimensions: 16″H x 13″W x 9″D

The motto for The Kaitlyn by Sleepy Panda is “more space, more convenience,” so you already know that this bag comes with plenty of room to spare. This diaper bag is great for first-time parents but it's also designed to cater to larger families, making it just as unique as it is useful. Its size gives it the edge over other bags competing for large households, while its price makes it a no-brainer for anyone seeking a multi-purpose bag that's also stylish and durable. Some extra features include:

• 15 pockets to store anything from diapers to extra bottles
• Enough space to fit a laptop
• Designed in mind for busy moms with enough space to carry a breast pump
• USB charging hub for on-the-go parents
• “Mommy Zone” for personal items such as your phone
• Grime shield coating to prevent sticky messes and make for easy cleaning

Sleepy Panda has outdone itself with this one and included some bonus items that make this bag a top contender: stroller straps, an insulated bottle holder, a changing pad, a wet bag, and a crossbody strap all come with The Kaitlyn's accessory pack.

Collective Heart Organic Cotton Market Tote

• Price: $35
• Dimensions: 16”L x 12”H x 7”W

When it comes to diaper bags, it's not always the fancier, pricier, fully-loaded option that makes the most sense for parents. Sometimes, all you need is a durable bag with plenty of open storage space that's easy to pack and carry. The Cotton Market Tote and Diaper Bag from Collective Heart is this bag to a T, and features several cute patterns to boot!

Versatility is the name of this bag's game, and it comes at an incredible price point – so much so, that parents could potentially buy an extra bag for backup. The sheer size of this bag offers parents the chance to carry everything they need and then some, making it the best choice for long-distance travel, day trips, overnight stays, and more. Some key features of this bag include:

• Dual-compartment storage for large and small items
• Fun patterns that make this bag stylish as much as functional
• Organic cotton material that's both durable yet practical
• A cotton poplin interior lining and zipper enclosure

Diaper bags don't need to break budgets to be fully functional, and Collective Heart has proven that sometimes the best bag is the one that offers the most options for its use.

The Original Diaper Bag by Fawn Design

• Price: $170
• Dimensions: 13″H x 13.5″L x 7″W

Fawn Design has recreated one of its most popular diaper bags to feature a new, lightweight design, making the bag itself a pound lighter than the old model. For any parent who has carried around a full diaper bag, you'll know how big of a difference this design choice can make! The exterior of this bag features faux leather that comes in six stylish colors, with gold zipper details and a nylon interior. While it's durable and easy to clean, here's where the investment in this bag really pays off:

• 12 pockets total offer easy and versatile storage options
• Six interior nylon-lined pockets for storing personal items
• A second set of straps to take this from a messenger bag to a backpack
• A top handle allows for travel-friendly transportation

Fawn Design's clever restructure of this bag makes it one of the most lightweight options for parents, and its fashionable design doesn't hurt any.

Moogco Baby Neutral Check Diaper Bag

• Price: $59.95
• Dimensions: 13”L x 9”H x 6”W

Moogco Baby is well known for its uniquely-designed diaper bags, and the Neutral Check bag is a mom-approved favorite. From the outside, this bag looks like nothing more than a cool backpack – but inside, it's a parent's dream when it comes to storage and baby organization. This on-trend bag is the utmost in practicality, with several spaces dedicated to storage all squared away in a near-looking package. Taking a closer look, this diaper bag boasts:

• Zippered exterior pocket for easy item-grabbing
• Three insulated interior pockets for bottle storage
• A convenient top handle and comfortable back straps
• Side pockets to hold a phone, water bottle, wipes, or other items
• Easy-to-clean interior with smaller zippered compartments
• A clear, plastic interior pocket good for storing damp or liquid items

While this Moogco diaper bag is one of the most trendy options out there, it also offers versatility throughout the day with cleverly designed storage.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/NataliaDeriabina.

The post This Diaper Bag Features the Ultimate in Essential Storage appeared first on Moms Who Think.

As a new mom, choosing a baby blanket that’s just right for your child is an act of love. When it comes to naptime, playtime, or even a sentimental moment, the only thing that stands between a mom and her baby is a cute, cozy blanket. With so many textures, shapes, and styles, the process of finding a high-quality blanket can be overwhelming – thankfully, this baby blanket roundup will make the process ten times easier for such an essential item.

Momcozy Muslin Swaddle Blankets

Price: $19.99-$36.99

Sometimes, you just need a tried and true baby blanket that has multiple uses but also holds up well over time. Momcozy has thought of it all when it comes to soft and versatile blankets. Although swaddling is their primary use, they're a top choice for moms for several reasons. The oversized measurements make for easy wrapping, the bamboo-derived cotton blend mimics a soft and womb-like feel, and they’ve been made with durability in mind. Purchase options range from 2-packs to 4-packs with eight long-lasting designs to choose from.

Promising Review: “These are super soft and lightweight! Perfect for warmer climates! I received some as a gift and then bought more. They are the perfect size to swaddle baby and they wash up well. They double as a great burp cloth and nursing cover too.”

Custom Catch Personalized Baby Blanket

Price: $19.89

Baby blankets aren’t always about practical use (although this Custom Catch blanket makes for a great swaddling cloth or naptime blanket!) and some have more sentimental value than others. Personalized baby blankets make great gifts but they're also the perfect way to give your baby something comforting and nostalgic. Moms can custom-order this fleece blanket with their baby’s name, along with additional options such as their birthdate and cute designs. It’s the perfect oversized winter blanket that babies can continue to use as they get older.

Promising Review: “This blanket goes everywhere with our boy. We were gifted this at our baby shower, and ever since he’s been able to sleep with things, he’s slept with this. He loves it SO much. It’s nice & light so not too heavy or bulky for him to sleep with or drag around. I just ordered a second as a backup since I can never get our current one away from him to wash!!”

Monica + Andy Coming Home Blanket

Price: $28, occasionally on sale for $13.99

For moms who only want the best for their babies, Monica + Andy created a baby blanket that’s 100% organic cotton, making it perfect for snuggling with your little one. Designed to swaddle newborns until they’re several months old, this is a blanket that you'll continue to use long after you arrive home with your baby. This Monica + Andy blanket is also GOTS-certified (Global Organic Textile Standard) so you’ll always have the reassurance that your baby is being embraced by the best fabric out there.

Promising Review: “I was gifted a Monica & Andy blanket for my firstborn. I loved it so much I decided to buy another for my second child!”

Little Unicorn Cotton Muslin Baby Quilt

Price: $40, occasionally on sale for $19.95

Little Unicorn created the perfect blend of comfort, cozy, and durability with this muslin baby quilt. Featuring an adorable llama design (appropriately called “Llama Llama”), this signature blanket is one that you will cherish for years to come. Made of 100% cotton muslin, your Little Unicorn blanket will get plenty of use even after multiple washes. For the price point, it would be a sweet addition to any nursery, baby bag, or crib. 

Promising Review: “This was my first purchase from Little Unicorn and already, not my last! I just couldn't resist this pattern. I decided on the baby blanket size as I thought it would be great to grab for the stroller or car when it's chilly. It's also the perfect size for my toddler to grab and carry around. I find myself even using it as a lap blanket while watching TV at night. It's a heavier weight than I expected, which I love, but not too hot or heavy. Can't wait to receive my next purchase!”

CuddleBugCrafters Personalized Baby Blanket

Price: Starting at $14.99, depending on customization

If you’re looking for a blanket that your baby can grow into, a personalized option is the way to go. CuddleBugCrafters has created this custom embroidered knit blanket, perfect for babies and toddlers up to 3 years old. Moms have 16 custom font options to choose from alongside 34 stunning colors, truly making this baby blanket a beautiful gift as well as a cozy one!

Promising Review: “This blanket is absolutely perfect! Perfect weight/size and just a wonderful classic style. I would also like to compliment the customer service. The seller went out of the way to help with an issue I had and I could not be more appreciative. 100% recommend!”

Copper Pearl Three-Layer Security Blanket

Price: $11.99-$19.99

Whether you’re a new or experienced mom, your top priority is making your baby feel safe. That’s why Copper Pearl's Three-Layer Security Blanket is truly one of a kind, with a design that's specifically meant to soothe your baby on the go. This baby blanket features slightly smaller measurements, perfectly suited for infants who are traveling with moms. A premium blend of rayon and polyester in this 2-pack provides stretch, durability, and softness. The 21 unique designs also offer a fun theme your baby will grow to love! 

Promising Review: “We initially bought these because my son LOVES Elmo but once we got them we fell in love with the company!! We ordered these and two outfits. All were so cute and so very soft!!! Definitely going to keep ordering.”

TwoBeesBabyBoutique Personalized Green Minky Blanket

Price: Starting at $31.96, depending on customization

It doesn’t get much softer than plush, and the more soothing a blanket is to your baby, the better. The one thing that could put a blanket like this over the top is personalization, which is exactly what TwoBeesBabyBoutique offers for their Green Minky baby blanket. This cozy double-sided blanket features a soothing earth-toned green on one side, and a Herringbone print on the other for just a hint of elegance. Moms can pick from three sizes – Lovey (a mini size for diaper bags and cars) Baby (a full size suitable for toddler years), and Child (perfect for beds and use beyond toddler age) – as well as ten font choices. The best part? This blanket was custom-designed by an independent artist, making this blanket truly unique. 

Promising Review: “The baby blanket is perfect. Well made and adorable. The blanket is nice and heavy and works well on cold days and for the floor to lay the baby. I know it will last and last. Can’t thank you enough for the beautiful product.”

Hanna Andersson Baby Layette Blanket In HannaSoft

Price: $36, occasionally on sale for $18

Hanna Andersson calls this blanket “buttery soft” and that description could not be more accurate. Featuring an eco-friendly design made with TENCEL Lyocell (a semi-synthetic fabric), this blanket is hypoallergenic and eczema-friendly, standing out from many others that don’t offer quite the same softness or comfort. This breathable favorite is also moisture-wicking, making it a great early-age blanket and one that won’t cause discomfort during warmer months! Hanna Andersson also has the OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100-certified seal of approval, bringing an extra level of reassurance to moms considering this blanket. 

Promising Review: “Truly the softest blanket!! Easy to wrap around baby or use as a nursing cover.”

The image featured at the top of this post is ©FabrikaSimf/Shutterstock.com.

The post Parenting Finds: Baby Blankets appeared first on Moms Who Think.