Age-appropriate, stimulating toys that engage, rather than entertain your baby, can help boost their cognitive, physical and social development.
During the First 6 Months
During the first 6 months, the best toys for your baby will be geared towards her sensory and motor development. Toys that are black and white or bright and boldly colored will greatly interest your baby. Once your baby begins to reach and grab for things and put them in her mouth, textured toys are a perfect choice.
Some of the best toys for babies under 6 months of age include:
- Rattles
- Soft balls and blocks
- Plastic links or rings
- Plush toys that make noise or have textured parts
- Textured balls, blocks and toys
- Teething rings and teething toys
- Unbreakable mirrors and cloth books.
6 – 12 Months
Between 6 and 12 months of age, toys that promote cause and effect and hand-eye coordination are a great option. Basically, anything that has buttons, makes noise, can be dropped, knocked over, stacked up, opened or shut will be of interest to your baby.
Some of the best toys for babies 6 to 12 months of age include:
- Basic musical instruments (like egg shakers)
- Shape sorters
- Pop up toys
- Nesting cups
- Stacking toys
- Soft blocks
- Pull toys
- Push toys that make noise and plastic cell phones.
The Importance of Tummy Time
When playing with your baby, it’s always important to remember to make time for tummy time. Since parents are now encouraged to put their babies to sleep on their back, it’s important that they spend time on their stomach each day to promote muscle development and to prevent flat spots from developing on the head.
When choosing toys for your baby, it’s important to remember that the more the toy does by itself, the less your baby can do with it. During the first year your baby will develop a host of new skills. Playing with age-appropriate toys can help foster these skills and help your baby grow and develop on track.
