When finding the best toys for newborns, you want to look for something that will help their development and still be fun. After all, newborns are only little for a short time.
You want to make sure they get the best start in life possible, and that includes finding the best toys. From wooden baby toys to soft plush rabbits, you should consider a few things before purchasing.
Here are some of the best toys for newborns:
1. Wooden toys
Wooden toys are recently becoming more popular for babies and toddlers. They are safe, eco-friendly, and durable. If you are looking for a toy that your baby can use for years, wooden toys are the best option.
In terms of benefits, wooden toys are great for developing your baby’s fine motor skills. They also help with cognitive development, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination.
How do wooden toys achieve this?
Wooden toys like wooden rattles or even wooden teeth soothers help with developing your baby’s fine motor skills. As they try to grip the toy, they use the muscles in their hands and fingers, which helps them develop strength and control.
Cognitive development is also achieved as your baby starts to understand that they can make the toy make noise or move. This is a great way for them to start understanding cause and effect.
Finally, hand-eye coordination is also improved as your baby learns to track the toy with their eyes and reach out to grab it.
2. Soft plush toys
While the firmness of wooden toys is beneficial for developing muscles, soft plush toys have their own set of benefits. These are great for developing your baby’s sense of touch as they explore the world around them.
Soft plush toys are also a great way to help your baby calm down and feel comforted as you dress them in baby clothing and get them ready for bed. The act of hugging a toy can help release oxytocin, the “cuddle hormone” that makes us feel good.
What to look for in a plush toy:
When looking for a soft plush toy, you want to ensure it is baby-safe. That means no small parts that can be swallowed and no hard edges.
A good option is a soft bunny or bear toy. Look for something that is hypoallergenic and machine-washable.
3. Activity mats
An activity mat is a must-have for any newborn baby. These mats provide a safe place for your baby to play and explore their surroundings, hence why they’re one of the best toys for newborns. They are also great for tummy time, helping your baby develop the muscles in their back and neck.
Activity mats can have different features, such as mirrors, toys, and textures. This variety helps to stimulate your baby’s senses and keep them entertained.
What to look for in an activity mat:
When choosing an activity mat, you want to make sure it is firm yet cushioned. Check to see if it is easy to clean as well. Some activity mats even come with a removable cover for easy washing.
Stay away from mats with small parts or anything that can be easily ripped, as your baby will put everything in their mouth.
4. Baby books
Introducing your baby to books at an early age is a great way to stimulate their minds and help them develop a love for reading. Of course, baby books aren’t the same as the books you would read to an older child.
They are often made of soft materials and have large, easy-to-grip pages. The best baby books will have bright colors and simple illustrations.
What to look for in a baby book:
Choose a baby book that is made of durable and safe materials. The pages should be thick enough that your baby can’t rip them. Pick a book with bright, bold illustrations and easy-to-understand text.
If the book has textures or other features, make sure they are baby-safe and can’t be easily removed. Avoid books with small parts that could be swallowed.
5. Musical toys
Dreaming of your baby becoming the next Mozart? While that might be a bit of a stretch, musical toys are a great way to stimulate your baby’s mind and help them develop an appreciation for music.
In fact, research has shown that exposure to music can have a number of benefits for babies, including improved brain development, increased language skills, and enhanced social skills.
Musical toys come in all shapes and sizes, from simple rattles to complex instruments. They can also be used to help soothe your baby when they are upset.
What to look for in a musical toy:
When choosing a musical toy, you want to buy something age-appropriate. What do we mean by that?
For newborns, simple rattles and shakers are best. Look for something that is easy for your baby to grip and hold. As your baby gets older, you can introduce more complex musical toys, such as xylophones and drums.
When choosing a musical toy for an older baby aged 6-12 months, look for something that has multiple sounds and can be played in different ways. For example, a toy xylophone with colored keys that plays different notes when struck.
6. Bath toys
Now that your baby is all clean and fresh from their bath, it’s time to have some fun! Bath time is the perfect opportunity to introduce your baby to water and help them develop a love for swimming.
Bath toys also help promote cognitive development and fine motor skills. They are a great way to keep your baby entertained during bath time, and you won’t have to worry about them getting bored.
When choosing bath toys, it is important to pick ones that are safe for your baby. Look for toys made of non-toxic materials that can’t be easily swallowed.
What to look for in a bath toy:
The best bath toys are made of soft, flexible materials that are mold and mildew-resistant. They should also be easy for your baby to grip and hold. Look for bath toys that float or squirt water, as these are great for keeping your baby entertained.
Avoid bath toys with small parts that could be swallowed. Also, stay away from toys that have sharp edges or pointy tips.
7. Teether toys
Newborns love putting everything in their mouths, including their hands and fingers. Unfortunately, this can lead to a lot of drooling and discomfort for your little one.
Teether toys are a great way to help soothe your baby’s sore gums and keep them entertained at the same time. They come in all shapes and sizes, from simple teething rings to more complex toys with different textures.
What to look for in a teether toy:
When choosing a teether toy, you want to pick one that is made of safe, non-toxic materials like food-grade silicone. The toy should also be soft and flexible so it is gentle on your baby’s gums.
You also want to make sure the toy is easy to clean and disinfect. Think about getting a teether toy that can be put in the dishwasher or sterilized in the microwave.
Conclusion
Babies are born explorers. From the moment they’re born, they are constantly learning about the world around them.
Toys are a great way to help your baby develop new skills and reach important milestones. They also provide a great opportunity for bonding and quality time with your little one.
When choosing toys for your baby, never forget about safety first. Make sure the toys are made of non-toxic materials and don’t have small parts that could be swallowed. Also, avoid toys with sharp edges or pointy tips.
