Welcome to 2012. Now that the revelry is over, it’s time to prepare ourselves for the next 365 days of adventures in parenting. To that end, check out what our on-the-pulse panel of experts has to say about the most noteworthy subjects of the year.

Before we take a week off to enjoy the holidays with our little ones, we wanted to spend a moment celebrating our favorite Scoops of the year—and wishing you the happiest of holidays (with apologies to Clement Clarke Moore):

Presents are fun, but they aren’t the only things that make this season special. Party pro and creative genius Amy Atlas shares a few festive ways to get into the spirit with your kids.

—Photo by JellyBean Pictures

We thought about doing a gift guide for everyone on your list, but then decided it’s the kids’ gifts that are the most fun. With that in mind, here are our top 12 holiday gifts for babies and toddlers. You’re on your own to find the perfect something for your spouse. And your sitter. And your mother-in-law . . .