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The world of infants is one of boundless curiosity and rapid development.
Through play, they explore their surroundings, discover their senses, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning.
The toys you choose can support their cognitive, physical, and social-emotional growth at every stage.
Popular brands include Lovevery, Baby Einstein, Mattel, Fisher Price, Hasbro among others.
Find helpful videos and expert-backed resources on child development to support your journey.
Table Summery Of Baby Toys by Age Group
Choosing the right toys for your baby can be overwhelming! This simple table guide provides age-appropriate toy suggestions for your little one’s first year.
These toys are designed to support their development, stimulate their senses, and provide endless hours of fun and learning.
| Age Group | Toys |
|---|---|
| 0 to 3 Months | High-Contrast Visual Stimuli, Soft Rattles and Grasping Toys, Teething Toys, Mobiles |
| 3 to 6 Months | Interactive Play Mats, Sensory Balls and Blocks, Musical Toys, Soft Books |
| 6 to 9 Months | Stacking Cups and Rings, Activity Centers, Push and Pull Toys, Bath Toys |
| 9 to 12 Months | Shape Sorters, Pretend Play Toys, Large Blocks, Walking Toys |
A study published in Child Development by researchers Professor Catherine Tamis-LeMonda & others at New York University’s Department of Psychology – Play and Language Lab found that infants don’t play with objects for long stretches at a time. Instead, they engage in frequent, short bursts of exploration. This means that toy rotation is important. Having a variety of safe and age-appropriate toys is important to keep their curious minds engaged.
Popular and Trending Baby Toys & Gifts 3-6 Months On amazon.com
- LOVEVERY Stage-Based Developmental Activity Gym & Play on amazon.com
- Black and White High Contrast Baby Toys on amazon.com
- Baby Teethers Montessori Toys on amazon.com
- Splashin’kids Inflatable Tummy time Premium Water on amazon.com
- Bright Starts Oball Shaker Rattle on amazon.com
- Nuby Floating Octopus bath Toy on amazon.com
- Montessori Stacking Cups & Rings on amazon.com
0 to 3 Months: Stimulating the Senses
Newborns have limited vision and are just starting to explore their world. Toys for 0 – 3 months babies that focus on stimulating their senses are perfect for this stage. Consider:
- High-Contrast Montessori Materials: Black, white, and primary-colored toys with bold patterns help babies focus their eyesight.”
- Soft Rattles and Grasping Toys: Gentle sounds and objects that are easy to grip help babies develop hand-eye coordination and learn about their hands.
- Teething Toys: Babies put everything in their mouths! Safe, textured toys soothe sore gums during the teething phase.
- Mobiles: Overhead mobiles with simple, slow-moving shapes encourage visual tracking and provide a calming focus.
3 to 6 Months: Engaging Exploration
Babies are becoming more active and curious about their surroundings. Toys for 3 – 6 months babies that support their developing motor skills and exploration are key during this time. Look for:
- Interactive Play Mats: These colorful mats have textures, toys, and mirrors that make tummy time enjoyable and encourage movement.
- Sensory Balls and Blocks: Soft, textured balls and blocks of different sizes are ideal for exploration and developing their grasp.
- Musical Toys: Toys that play soft songs or sounds when touched encourage auditory development and introduce cause-and-effect.
- Soft Books: Soft, simple books with bright pictures expose babies to images and the concept of reading.
6 to 9 Months: Practicing New Skills
Babies are on the move! Toys for 6 – 9 months babies that challenge their developing fine motor skills, problem-solving, and encourage movement are perfect now.
- Stacking Cups and Rings: These classic toys help babies learn about sizes, colors, and refine their coordination.
- Activity Centers: Toys with buttons, switches, and textures teach about cause-and-effect, keeping little hands busy.
- Push and Pull Toys: Help your baby learn balance and coordination as they move around with their new wheeled friends.
- Bath Toys: Waterproof toys like squirters make bath time fun and introduce concepts like sinking and floating.
9 to 12 Months: Growing Minds and Bodies
Babies are now becoming little explorers and problem-solvers. Toys for 9 – 12 months babies that engage their cognitive skills and help refine their movements are a wonderful fit.
- Shape Sorters: These toys help babies identify shapes and develop problem-solving skills as they fit them correctly.
- Pretend Play Toys: Simple items like dolls, toy phones, and play food encourage early role-play and imagination.
- Large Blocks: Building and stacking large blocks promotes spatial awareness and helps babies practice gross motor skills.
- Walking Toys: Push toys and walkers can provide support and confidence as your baby takes those first steps.
While toys provide entertainment, interactive activities create lasting memories and strengthen your bond with your baby.
Discover simple and engaging ways to play together in our Play Activities & Crafts for Babies resource.
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes. Always consider your individual child’s interests and developmental needs when selecting toys.
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Resources
- Society for Research in Child Development – Free Play May Help Infants Learn and Develop
- UNICEF Parenting – The Science of Play
- Harvard – Center on Developing Child – Brain-Building Through Play
- UNICEF Parenting – What is free play and why should you encourage it at home?
- Play and Language Lab – Professor Catherine Tamis-LeMonda
- Zero to Three: Building STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) Skills From Birth
- The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) – Why this Toy