Hey there, awesome parents! It might look like your little one is spending their first six months just snoozing, eating, and… well, you know! But trust us, there’s a whole lot of brain power brewing behind those adorable eyes. Playtime is not just for giggles; it’s a fantastic way to support your baby’s growth and learning!
Creating a safe play area for your baby to explore is super important. When you give them age-appropriate toys, it encourages them to practice new skills while having a blast.
Before I became an editor at Babylist, I dived deep into early childhood development and even taught preschool. Now, when I pick toys for little ones, I look for three things: safety (number one priority!), simplicity, and the ability to inspire exploration and open-ended play. Toys like rattles, soft balls, activity gyms, and board books provide a sensory feast and help babies hit those important developmental milestones in their first six months.
Whether you’re adding some fun to your baby’s toy collection or hunting for the perfect gift for a little cutie, here’s our top toy list for babies aged 0-6 months. And don’t forget to check out our guide for what comes next!
Best Toys for Tummy Time
From 0-2 months, your baby will start lifting that adorable little head and noticing the world around them. A play gym is a fantastic spot for them to work on their neck, core, and arm strength during tummy time while checking out their surroundings. Toss in a few high-contrast toys to really get those little eyes working!
Best Toys for Hand-Eye Coordination
Around 2-4 months, your baby will make the exciting discovery that they have hands! Yay! Black and white high-contrast images are great for their vision, but don’t forget to add some fun colors too. Grabbing toys that are easy to hold will motivate those tiny arms to move, helping them work on depth perception and fine motor skills.
Best Soft Books for Young Babies
Reading with your baby not only sparks a love for books but also boosts their language skills. These soft, chewable (and nearly indestructible) books are perfect for little hands to explore and introduce them to new words.
Best Toys for On-the-Go Entertainment
Around the four-month mark, babies really start to wake up to the world! It’s also a great time for parents to venture out with their little ones. Look for bright toys that easily attach to strollers or car seats. They’ll keep your baby entertained on the go—just remember to remove any toys from the car seat before buckling them in!
So there you have it! Get ready for some fun times and fantastic discoveries with these toys that support your baby’s development. Happy playing! ✨
The Best Toys and Gifts to Boost Your Baby's Development (0-6 Months)