by Helium01

Created on: July 17, 2009

Gazing at your little ones eyes light up when grabbing a rattle for the first time is quite a treat. These toys become her first friends, aid her to learn about her surroundings, and provide her with first sounds. The burgeoning market of toys often leaves parents confused. Here is a quick guide to the types of developmental toys your baby will need as she progresses from an infant to a teenager.

Birth to 6 months

During these early months your child undergoes change every day.
Sensory: squeeze toys, rattles
Physical skill: activity mats/gym

6 to 12 months

As your little one sits up this is now time for coordinated leg-arm activity.
Sensory: building blocks, board books
Physical skill: push-pull toys

1- 4 years

As your child moves into the toddler years her toys should encourage imagination and movement. They should cater to his creativity, curiosity and problem solving.

Learning: dollhouses/action figures, games and puzzles
Movement: organizers, outdoor activity toys

4 years through adolescence

Architect? Doctor? Teacher? Musician? Who does your little one want to be? Role playing enables explore feelings, values and sharpens social skills. A wide range of toys are appropriate for toddlers through adolescents, including construction blocks, games, playhouses, bikes, etc.

Below is a list of some popular developmental toys for babies to get you started with your shopping list.

1. Melodies & Lights Deluxe Gym by Fisher-Price
Fascinating lights and hanging animals; easy to put together.
Recommended Age: 3 -12 months

2. Ocean Wonders Aquarium by Fisher-Price
Great as a toy and sleep soother.
Recommended Age: Birth - 24 months

3. Sassy Me In The Mirror by Sassy
An engaging peek-a-boo crib toy.
Recommended Age: 3-12 months

4. Lamaze Freddie the Firefly by Learning Curve
Enthralling crinkler and teether.
Recommended Age: Babies and young children of all ages

5. RaZ-Berry Silicone Teether by Razbaby
Cute take-along teething toy.
Recommended Age: 4-36 months

6. Baby Einstein Takealong Tunes by Baby Einstein
Awesome baby soothing music.
Recommended Age: 4-24 months

7. Fisher-Price Rock-A-Stack by Fisher Price
A classic toy that never fades in style.
Recommended Age: 6-24 months

8. Brilliant Basics - Baby's First Blocks by Fisher Price
Simple yet entertaining sorter.
Recommended Age: 6-36 months

9. DJ Baby Walker in Splash by Chicco
Gender neutral; funky ride with engaging music.
Recommended Age: 6 months and up

10. Learn and Groove Musical Table by LeapFrog
Fantastic toy, great value for money.
Recommended Age: 3-36 months

These are just some tips to help you get started choosing toys for your child. Remember, at all ages, you want to strike a balance between learning and enjoyment. Ideally, the toys that you select will combine the best of both worlds.

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