7 Mom Must-Haves to Diffuse Meltdowns This Summer

Bluey Lights & Sounds Bubble Wand ($15)

Any toddler parent knows the importance of traveling with bubbles. This tiny bottle of magic can mean the difference between a peaceful park visit and a public meltdown of epic proportions. Don't get caught up in the latter. Instead, level up your game with this bubble wand. Not only is it spill-proof (a game-changer in itself), but it also plays music and produces a continuous stream of bubbles — perfect for capturing short attention spans sans screen.

Well Market Unsweetened Freeze-Dried Bananas and Strawberries ($5)
Spudsy Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries ($4)

A hangry toddler is a beast you do not want to meet. Stay ahead of the storm by keeping an arsenal of snacks on hand — ones that satisfy their cravings and meet your health standards. For something sweet, try freeze-dried bananas and strawberries. Unlike fresh fruit, they're virtually mess-free, and with zero added sugar, you won't have to worry about an inevitable sugar rush. For a crunchy, potato chip–style fix, go for these lightly salted sweet potato fries. With three grams of fiber per serving, they'll help keep little tummies fuller for longer.

OFF! Familycare Bite & Itch Relief First Aid Antiseptic Pen ($9)

Bug bites happen, and with them comes the inevitable can't-stop-won't-stop itch. Little ones are especially prone to scratching and picking, which can sometimes make things worse. That's why a handy relief pen is a must-have. Designed to soothe bites and stings on the spot, it helps stop the discomfort before it spirals.

ZURU Snackles Series 2 Plush, Blind Capsule ($13)

Warding off a meltdown is sometimes as simple as introducing a distraction. When your three-year-old is begging for yet another popsicle, or a 37th turn on the slide when you're already running late, turn their attention to this blind capsule. Each one contains a soft, squeezable plush toy that comes with an origin story comic and stickers. They're cute, collectable, and practically guaranteed to turn a frown upside down in a pinch. Plus, the sheer excitement of unwrapping and discovering which of the 14 Snackles they've scored is enough to stop almost any tantrum in its tracks.

Welly Large First Aid Kit ($30)

Nothing kills a summer vibe faster than an injury. Even a minor cut or scrape can send little ones into a tear-filled tailspin. When accidents happen, make sure you're equipped with a stocked first aid kit. Armed with ointments, cleansing wipes, ibuprofen, and over 100 colorful bandages (because fun options matter), you'll have everything you need to save the day — not to mention the rest of your afternoon — in a flash. And once you've used up everything inside, the tin transforms into a colorful collectible your kid will love for storing toys and knick-knacks.

Homedics SoundSpa On-the-Go ($25)

When nap time rolls around, a reliable sound machine is clutch. The soothing lull of white noise can not only help little ones drift off, but it can also help them stay asleep. A portable option is a sanity saver when you're traveling or just on the go. This one features four sound settings (shush, heartbeat, lullaby, and white noise), downward-facing speakers for a more immersive experience, and a built-in clip for easy attachment.

Little Tikes 7-Piece Playground Value Pack ($15)

When boredom strikes, pull out this handy pack of outdoor-ready goodies. The set, which includes a bouncy ball, chalk, a bean bag, a puck, and a game sheet, creates endless opportunities for fun. Whether you're at home, the park, or on the go, it'll quickly become the lifesaver you didn't know you needed.