Have you ever wondered why developmental toys are always available? Many people may overlook toys for their little ones, but toys play an important role in children’s development at every age. The toys that suit each age group differ, so choosing suitable toys for your child is very important.
That is why ABC the Baby has put together this selection of "developmental toys for children" for mums with little ones. What kinds of developmental toys are available? Let’s take a look.
Developmental toys for babies
There are many types of toys and approaches to play that help support babies’ physical movement skills and neurological development.
Suitable toys for babies aged 0-6 months
For babies aged 0-6 months, the following toys can help support development.
- Toys that support vision include high-contrast black-and-white pictures or cards, brightly coloured soft toys and mobiles hung out of your baby’s reach.
- Toys and activities that support hearing include rattles, toys that make gentle jingling sounds, and singing or playing soft music for your baby.
- Toys and activities that support touch include cloth books with different textures, soft toys, baby teethers and tummy time while your baby is awake and supervised by an adult.
Find more toys suitable for this age at newborn toys.
Suitable toys for babies aged 6-12 months
For babies aged 6-12 months, the following toys can help support development.
- Toys that support movement include soft fabric balls, stacking toys, toys for putting objects in and tipping them out, and push-along walkers with handles that babies can stand and push themselves on a level surface. (Sit-in baby walkers are not recommended because they pose a risk of falls and falling down stairs, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.)
- Toys that introduce learning include toys with letters and toys with numbers.
- Toys that encourage creativity include toys children can build with, such as building blocks.
Developmental toys for young children
Developmental toys are important for young children because they play a key role in supporting and encouraging learning and development in different areas.
Suitable toys for children aged 1-3 years
Children aged 1-3 years are often interested in exploring and learning about everything around them. Suitable toys for this age should therefore support different areas of development, such as neurological development and creativity.
- Soft balls and pull-along toys
- Large building pieces
- Building blocks and shape sorters
- Pounding toys, toy musical instruments and picture books
Find toys for this age at toys for 1-year-olds, or read which developmental toys are best for a 1-year-old.
Safety note: Children under 3 still like putting things in their mouths. Choose toys without small detachable parts, beads, small magnets, button batteries or balloons, as these pose choking risks and can cause serious harm. Always check the age recommendation on the packaging and supervise your child during play (HealthyChildren.org).
Suitable toys for children aged 3-5 years
Children aged 3-5 years are often interested in learning and creating. Suitable toys for this age should therefore support different areas of development, such as analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Building toys and blocks
- Age-appropriate puzzles
- Wooden toy trains with connecting tracks
- Pretend-play toys, such as kitchen sets and doctor kits
Find more toys for this age at toys for 3-year-olds.
Developmental toys can help children develop, particularly as their needs and developmental stages change with age. Choosing age-appropriate toys is therefore something parents should pay close attention to. Alongside toys, little ones also want their parents’ time, love and understanding. Playing and talking with your child every day are the best ways to support development (NHS).