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Buying Guide: Infant Toys
The Benefits of Play
Toys and playtime are integral parts of an infant's development. Through play, a baby begins to develop their
senses, hand-eye coordination, a basic understanding of cause and effect, as well as a sense of what they like
and dislike. Enjoying playtime with baby is easy, especially with the right toys. With so many toys to choose
from - how do you know which ones are right for your child's stage of development? Certainly the most important
thing to consider is safety. Our safety tips will help you identify characteristics to avoid when shopping for
the perfect plaything. You'll also want to keep in mind the developmental stages your infant will go through, and
choose toys that are appropriate for your baby's age and ability. Finally, think of what your child enjoys. Look
for signs such as a rhythmic moving of the arms and legs, or cooing and laughter to let you know your baby is
delighted with a particular toy. Regardless of how beneficial a toy may be, if it doesn't hold your child's
interest the potential benefits will be lost.
Developmental Stages
Every child develops at a different rate. Bear in mind that the age recommendations on packaging are offered mainly
for safety purposes, not as an indicator of developmental milestones.
Newborn-2 Months
Touch is one of the first senses to be developed. Rhythmic motions will stimulate this sense, and you'll notice
a strong grasping reflex. Baby will begin to recognize voices and sounds, so you'll be able to calm and comfort
baby with your voice and other soft, rhythmic sounds. Although your baby will soon start to recognize faces, keep
in mind that a newborn can only see clearly 8 to 10 inches away. Focusing will start at 6 to 8 weeks, but full
color vision won't be achieved until about 4 months. While rhythmic motion of the arms and legs can indicate baby's
joy over a new toy, if your baby is naturally active you may notice that baby will become still and pay close
attention to a new toy.
Baby-Appropriate Toys & Features:
- High-contrast colors
- Patterns with geometric shapes
- Toys with faces
-
Baby-safe mirrors
-
Rattles and toys that make noise or music when moved or touched
- Different textures and fabric that crinkles
- Rings to grasp and hold
3-5 Months
Baby's senses have had some time to develop, and now your infant is likely to be more responsive to voices,
sounds, visual stimulation, and interaction with family members. In addition to responding to sights and sounds,
your infant is learning how to cause responses too. Peek-a-boo toys and toys that react to touch with lights or
music will become favorites of your little one. You will start to hear baby's laughter and cooing, and possibly
some rough consonant sounds. Teething can also begin at this stage, so it's very important to remember that toys,
and most other things within baby's reach, will likely end up in baby's mouth. Baby's umbilical cord and
circumcision will also have healed by now, so you can safely bathe baby. Bath time is a wonderful opportunity to
bond with baby. Toys and splashing games are sure to be a delight for everyone.
Baby-Appropriate Toys & Features:
- Electronic voice chips
- Baby-activated lights, sounds, and music
- Peek-a-boo flaps or lids
- Lots of colors
- Big picture books
- Soft, huggable toys
- Teething toys, including teethers that can be frozen to soothe baby's gums
- Textured toys that are safe for baby's mouth
- Bath toys
6-9 Months
At this time, there will likely be big increases in strength and coordination. It won't be long before baby will be
able to sit unassisted for up to 30 minutes at a time. Baby's attention span will also be getting longer, and
you'll notice a newfound curiosity about how things work. Memory is also developing now, so your baby may repeat
new achievements and start to become bored with some repeated games. Speak to your infant as much as possible - at
this stage it is particularly helpful for language development.
Baby-Appropriate Toys & Features:
See infant toys for ages 0-12 months.
Safety Tips
The most important thing about any toy is whether or not it will be safe for baby. Use the following tips to
help you avoid toys that could potentially be dangerous for baby.
- Never leave baby unattended when playing with toys
- Make sure all battery compartments are tightly sealed and cannot be opened by baby
- Avoid toys with small parts
- Choose toys that are smooth without any sharp, jagged, or rough surfaces
- Do not leave any large stuffed toys in the crib with baby
- Choose toys that baby can safely chew on
- Never give baby a toy with strings more than 7" long
Toys are not only fun and entertaining for baby - they can be tools that will stimulate baby's growth and
development. Think of your child's toys as a starting block that imagination and hand-eye coordination can
take off from. Now that you know what to look for, add some infant toys to your registry and help your friends
and family make appropriate, safe, and wonderful choices for baby.
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