Clearly, we need more time for recommendations for child care in southern Baltimore County. Instead, here is an off-the-top-of-my-head tip sheet on another topic we batted about briefly -- presents for a first birthday.

 Besides, today is my adorable nephew's first birthday. Happy birthday, Jay!

To me, this is a harder birthday to buy for than you might think. One-year-olds are still sort of babies, yet in another way worlds away from that state -- they're on the move walking (or about to be); they're talking (or about to be). But many toys still aren't quite safe for a 1-year-old. Here are a few ideas. I hope you'll add more:

--I like Dahlink's suggestion of a big, empty box. Low to no cost, high play value.

--A sturdy drum might be a headache for parents, but it's a great, safe tactile and audio experience for the emerging toddler. There's one on this list from a mom on Yahoo!'s Shine, along with some other ideas.

--Simple bath books (waterproof, tearproof) are a great way to get squirmy 1-year-olds to settle down in the tub. We had "One Fish, Two Fish" by Dr. Seuss.

--A sturdy, adjustable basketball hoop with mini ball. This is a gift that keeps on giving, because you can move the hoop higher as the child grows.

--Money for college. I'm no financial adviser, but it seems like stocks are in buying mode at the moment. Your gift could gain great ground by the time your little friend is 17.

--A CD of listenable kids' music. (That should be its own TS Thursday topic soon.) Local band Milkshake's Happy Songs would be perfect for this age.

--Good, old-fashioned, and large (for safety) wooden blocks with letters and/or numbers.

Your favorites?