What to Look for in a Toy for a Baby Birth to 6 Months Old
Posted by Ewnice on 17th Mar 2023
During the first six months, babies are learning to control their muscles while their best focusing distance is about 20 cm in front of them. From about five weeks on, they gain new skills that help them discover their bodies and the world around them. Toys that are designed to match baby’s abilities will help stimulate rapid learning, while keeping them happy and interested.
During the first 6 weeks, babies develop the muscle control necessary to support their heads. They love to stare at their mother’s face and focus on objects with high contrast colours. Between 2 and 3 months, babies are beginning to uncurl their bodies, spread their fingers out and unclench their hands. In the first 3 months, babies find their hands and feet and play with them. Their eye sight is poor and they can only see in black and white. During month 2 to 3, babies develop stronger, more deliberate leg and arm movements. They enjoy batting and swiping at objects within reach.
By the time baby is 4 months old, he can easily lift his head and turn it from side to side. These physical developments give him new opportunities to interact with his surroundings. With the control of his arms and hands to bring objects close to his face, and put them in his mouth. He is able to hold and shake objects like a rattle.
During the 5th and 6th month, your baby can sit upright with support. Hand-eye coordination has improved, so they can switch objects from one hand to the other. Baby may start to try and crawl.
Appropriate Toys from Birth to 6 Months Old
Visual Stimulation:
Colourful toys to stimulate focus & vision
Activity toys that can attach to the cot or stroller, such as carseat toys
Auditory Stimulation:
Toys that make sounds such as a musical toy or rattle
Motor Stimulation:
Toys for grasping that are easy to hold & lightweight
Toys that lie flat, perfect for tummy time with baby, such as fold out soft books
Need some ideas still?
We have curated two collections in our gift idea catergories to help with some ideas for those looking for an appropriate present.
We have the Newborn Gifts collection, which are baby safe products, designed for those newborn days. Discover delightful and safe present options, lovingly crafted for newborns to make their first moments extra special. Perfect for celebrating life from day one!
The 3-8 Month Old Gifts section provides ideas for tiny adventurers aged 3-8 months! Let their curious minds roam free with toys designed to bring a symphony of textures, enchanting patterns, and delightful sounds to their fingertips. A wondrous world of sensory excitement awaits your little one!