Your little one will transition from simple rattles to more complex stacking toys within their first year. However, one constant remains: the box will always be their favorite toy.
When Do Babies Start Engaging With Toys?
Although infants can engage with suitable toys, like shaking a rattle, it’s typically around the 6-month mark that they begin to interact with toys in a more traditional manner—such as knocking over blocks or rolling a ball. By the time they reach 9 months, babies often develop preferences for certain toys, showing the ability to transfer items between hands or search for hidden toys.
Here’s a breakdown of how play evolves in the first year and what types of toys are best suited for each stage:
Playing With Toys: Birth to 2 Months
During these early weeks, your baby’s primary “toy” is you. Interaction with caregivers is crucial, as it lays the foundation for emotional and social development.
Playing With Toys: 2 to 4 Months
At this stage, babies begin to show interest in objects around them. Soft toys and rattles are perfect for holding and shaking, as they help develop hand-eye coordination.
Playing With Toys: 4 to 6 Months
As they grow, infants start to reach for toys and explore them with their mouths. Toys that are safe to chew on and brightly colored will keep them engaged.
Playing With Toys: 6 to 12 Months
In this period, you’ll notice increased curiosity. Babies will start to crawl or scoot towards toys, enjoying activities like stacking blocks and cuddling with stuffed animals. They might also enjoy toys that make sounds or have different textures.
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Summary
During the first year, babies evolve from needing only human interaction to actively engaging with toys. Understanding these stages can help you choose the right toys to foster development and curiosity in your little one.