The Best Baby Toys for Developmentally Appropriate Play

One of my most popular printables is a guide to developmentally appropriate play for babies (you can see the original version here and an updated one here). This guide describes what types of activities foster a baby’s development at ages birth-1 month, 2-3 months, 4-6 months, and so on.

This guide describes many activities and mentions some types of toys, but it doesn’t mention specific toys. If you’ve looked at baby toys recently, then you’ve likely noticed that there are so many available that you’ll end up spending a fortune if you’re not careful. Thankfully, babies don’t need that many toys and they don’t need super expensive toys.

Which toys will they enjoy the most? Which support their development? Let’s look at some answers to these questions.

Best toys for babies from birth-1 month

Really young infants don’t need toys as much as they need YOU. At this point, their movements are largely dominated by reflexes and their vision is blurry (they can only fix their eyes on things about 8-15 inches from their faces). However, babies are already learning and developing. It is important that they hear new sounds and see high-contrast objects. Likewise, they need lots of touch (being held, massaged, patted, etc.) and to begin having tummy time (try placing baby on a loved one’s chest or lap with his or her face turned to the side). Useful toys and gear for this stage include the Boppin’ Birdie Developmental Plush Toy, the Hidden in My Heart Lullaby CD, books such as Animals: A High-Contrast Board Book, and the Boba Baby Wrap.

Best toys for babies aged 2-3 months

At this point, babies are beginning to hold their heads higher and steadier. They may even roll over (usually accidentally) when playing on the floor! They will bat at toys that are suspended in front of them and may grasp hold of toys when their hands encounter them. Babies are soaking up information about the word from what they see, hear, touch, and smell. Useful toys and gear for this stage include the 3-in-1 Music, Glow And Grow Gym, the Peek-a-Boo Activity Book, the High Contrast Ring Rattle, and the Freddie the Firefly Clip-On Toy.

Best toys for babies aged 4-6 months

Because of all the tummy time they’ve done previously, most infants aged 4-6 months are able to press up and move around some while on their bellies. Most are able to roll over voluntarily at this point. They also begin intentionally reaching for and grasping objects. Many of these objects end up in their mouths because chewing provides stimulation and helps with cutting teeth. Babies in this stage begin learning cause and effect (shaking toys to hear sounds, dropping toys to watch them fall, etc.). Their vision improves, so they become very interested in faces and patterns (especially circular ones like spirals). Useful toys for this stage include a Tummy Time Floor Mirror, the WOBLII Sensory Ball, the Taggies Hedgehog Rattle, and the Very Hungry Caterpillar Teething Crinkle Soft Sensory Book.

Best toys for babies aged 6-9 months

During this time, most babies begin sitting up independently and are able to scoot around on their stomachs. Some babies begin using furniture to pull themselves up to a standing position. Their fine motor skills improve, so they are easily able to pick up and manipulate (throw, shake, bang together, etc.) a wide variety of objects. Useful toys for this stage include the Wonder Wheel Activity Center, a Textured Ball Set, books such as Bright Baby On the Farm: Touch and Feel, and the Multi-Sensory Soft Taco Fill and Spill Toy.

Best toys for babies aged 9-12 months

Babies aged 9-12 months are very mobile and active. Many can crawl, cruise (walk alongside furniture while holding on for support), and even walk. Most have mastered the pincer grasp (ability to pick up objects between the thumb and index finger). They recognize the names of familiar objects and can often follow simple commands. They begin mimicking actions they see adults do frequently (for example, holding phones up to their ears). Useful toys for this stage include the ABC Block Party Baby Blocks, books such as Babies Love Numbers Lift-A-Flap Board Book, puzzles such as the Safari Animals Jumbo Knob Wooden Puzzle, and the Garden Playhouse for Babies and Toddlers.

Final thoughts

When selecting baby toys, your first consideration should be safety. Follow these guidelines to keep your baby safe (source):

• Follow the age recommendations set forth by the toy manufacturers
• Choose well-made toys
• Examine toys regularly and get rid of those with worn or frayed parts (loose ribbons, peeling paint, etc.)
• Avoid small toys for children under 3 (if a toy is small enough to fit in a toilet paper roll, then it is small enough to be a choking hazard)
• Avoid toys that are so heavy or large that they can cause injury if they fall on baby
• Avoid toys will small magnets, cords/strings longer than 12 inches, and toxic toys (those that contain things like phthalates, lead, mercury, etc.)
• Provide adequate supervision when baby is playing with toys

Have fun picking some toys for the babies in your life! Many of those shown above have been favorites of my three little ones. Also, don’t forget that babies enjoy playing with a number of common household items!

I’d love to hear about your favorite baby toys. Which toys have your babies loved?

Shared at the following:

Tuesdays with a Twist, Busy Monday, Over the Moon, and Encouraging Hearts and Home.