As an occupational therapist, I use music and rhythm every week to support kids' development and it works just as well at home. Here are 5 ways musical toys support your baby's brain, body, and emotions, plus why wooden instruments are my top pick over plastic or electronic ones.

When winter shuts the garden and the kids start climbing the walls, your home is already a gross motor gym. Here's how to build muscle tone, balance, bilateral integration, midline crossing, and ball skills with nothing more than masking tape, couch cushions, sock balls, and a balloon, plus a few Tiny Tree pieces (Wobble Stones, Balance Board, Giant Daisies, Stepping Stones) to extend the play when you're ready for more.