A parent's guide to age-perfect toys

Unleash the magic of play. Find the ideal toys to nurture your child's growth and development, from birth to toddlerhood and beyond.

Content editor

Jayne Cherrington-Cook

Play is essential for your little ones. It's how they learn about the world, develop new skills, and have fun along the way. Choosing the perfect playthings will ensure they don't get frustrated and continue to thrive and grow through every stage of their early development.

Newborns to six months

At this age, it's all about sensory exploration, so choose toys that engage their senses through bright colours, interesting textures and captivating sounds.

High-contrast patterns: Black and white or brightly coloured mobiles and books are easier for newborns to focus on.
Rattles and grasping toys: Soft, textured toys that crinkle or rattle help develop hand-eye coordination and auditory skills.
Soft toys: Babies love to explore textures with their mouths and hands. Soft books, stuffed animals and play mats with various textures will keep them entertained.
Activity mats and play gyms: These encourage tummy time and offer a variety of textures and sounds for exploration.

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The perfect toys for small babies

Six to twelve months

Your baby is becoming more mobile and curious. Look for toys that encourage exploration and discovery.

Stacking Toys: Stacking cups or rings help babies develop fine motor skills and understand spatial relationships.
Teethers: Those teeth really start coming through from six months onwards. Teething toys will help soothe sore gums while also providing sensory input.
Push and pull toys: As babies start to crawl and walk, push and pull toys provide hours of active fun and help them develop gross motor skills.
Balls: Rolling, bouncing and chasing balls promote gross motor development.

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Toys for exploration

12 to 18 months

Your toddler's imagination is taking flight. Choose those toys that encourage pretend play and physical activity. Also try and choose toys that can be used in multiple ways, allowing your little one's creativity to flourish.

Dolls, action figures and soft toys: These toys encourage imaginative play, social interaction, and emotional development.
Pretend play sets: Toddlers love to mimic adult activities and these toys allow them to do so in a safe and fun way. They also encourage role-playing and creative expression.
Building blocks: Wooden or plastic blocks allow toddlers to create towers, castles and whatever their imagination dreams up.
Shape sorters: These classic toys encourage problem-solving as well as help with colour and shape recognition.

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Perfect for toddlers

18 to 24 months

At this age, children are learning to talk and interact with others. Toys that support communication and social development are key to this stage. Keep playtime fresh by rotating your child's toys every few weeks. This prevents boredom and keeps them engaged.

Toy phones and musical instruments: Yes, they’re noisy, but they are great for encouraging vocalisation and language skills.
Lego and construction sets: Not only do these allow your little one’s imagination to run riot, but they also promote cooperation and problem-solving in play with others.
Books and story-telling toys: Enhance vocabulary and communication skills.
Art supplies: At this age, they should be able to hold a chunky crayon. Getting age-appropriate art and craft supplies will help stimulate creativity and self-expression.

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Playtime fun for growing minds