Play is not just a fun pastime for infants; it’s crucial for their development. Through playful interactions, your little one explores the world, learns new skills, and lays the foundation for future learning. Sensory stimulation, exploration, and discovery are all essential elements of healthy infant development, and the right toys can nurture these experiences in a safe and engaging way.

As your little one embarks on their exciting journey of development, choosing the right toys can be both fun and overwhelming. Fear not, fellow parents and caregivers! I’m here to guide you through the ever-expanding world of infant toys, based on my experience as a product testing expert and mom of three.

This curated list features a blend of classic favorites and trending picks that will spark your baby’s imagination, nurture their senses, and support their developmental milestones:

1. Oball Classic Ball:

This colorful, easy-to-grasp ball is a timeless treasure for a reason! Its large size and multiple openings are perfect for tiny hands to explore, promoting grasping skills and hand-eye coordination. The Oball also introduces the concept of cause-and-effect as your baby bats and rolls it around.

2. SmartNoggin NogginRings:

These soft, stackable rings are more than just teethers! They boast a variety of textures, vibrant colors, and crinkling sounds, engaging multiple senses and encouraging exploration. The NogginRings also help with motor skill development as your baby reaches, grasps, and stacks them.

3. Pipsquigz:

These colorful, suction-cup toys have taken social media by storm, and for good reason! They stick to almost any surface, providing endless entertainment for little ones. Pipsquigz can be attached to highchair trays, car seats, and even the bathtub, sparking curiosity and promoting fine motor skills as your baby pulls, pushes, and pops them.

4. Lovevery Play Kits:

These subscription boxes deliver age-appropriate play essentials tailored to your baby’s developmental stage. Each kit features high-quality, open-ended toys made from safe, natural materials. Lovevery Play Kits encourage exploration, discovery, and sensory play, fostering cognitive and physical development through engaging activities.

5. Sassy Wonder Wheel Activity Center:

Constructed with durable, easy-to-clean materials, the Sassy Wonder Wheel stands up to the rigors of enthusiastic play. The Wonder Wheel supports developmental milestones. The spinning action teaches cause-and-effect, while the various textures encourage tactile exploration, and the bright colors stimulate visual development.

Other great picks:

• Best Teether: Nuby Bubbly Textured Silicone Teether: This BPA-free teether features multiple textured surfaces and a massaging design, providing soothing relief for sore gums.
• Best Bath Toy: Sassy First Shots Stack & Splash Buckets: These colorful stacking buckets come with a friendly whale character and pour spout, encouraging pouring, stacking, and water play during bath time.
• Best Sensory Toy: Edushape Sensory Balls (4 Pack): These brightly colored, textured balls come in various sizes and are easy for little hands to grasp and manipulate. They provide tactile stimulation and encourage exploration of textures.
• Best Tummy Time Toy: Fisher-Price Play Gym: This classic play gym features a variety of hanging toys, a soft play mat, and a mirror, encouraging babies to push up, reach, and bat at the toys, strengthening their neck and back muscles.

Remember:

The best toy for your infant is the one that sparks their curiosity and encourages exploration. Observe your baby’s interests and choose toys that cater to their individual developmental needs. Don’t be afraid to rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh and engaging.

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Your Questions, Answered

• What are the safest toys for infants? Look for toys made from safe, non-toxic materials that are age-appropriate and free of small parts that could pose a choking hazard. The United States has a mandated toy safety standard, ASTM F963 that requires all toys intended for use by kids under the age of 12 be third party tested and certified.
• How many toys do I need for my baby? A few high-quality, age-appropriate toys are sufficient. Rotate them regularly to keep things fresh and engaging.
• How often should I rotate my baby’s toys? Every few weeks or when you notice your baby losing interest in their current selection.
• What are some good educational toys for babies? Open-ended toys that encourage exploration, creativity, and problem-solving are great choices.
• What are some good travel toys for babies? Look for compact, lightweight toys that are easy to clean and keep your baby entertained on the go.

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