Since we are on the eve of Christmas, and we know that many of you are busy thinking 'what toys to buy for your children', we want to help you a little, giving a series of tips to choose; We start today with the age stage that goes from 0 to 3 years old. I clarify that babies need little in terms of play with toys, since contact with adults (and with the outside world), coupled with a respect for the rate of growth (depending on which they are allowed to crawl or crawl), they greatly facilitate development; without counting on the possibilities we offer to take them with you anywhere, visits to the playground, and the manipulation of natural elements such as earth or pineapples.
Between 0 and 36 months a lot happens, at all levels; Regarding play, a newborn does not need toys while a 3-year-old can do short rides on a bike without pedals, for a 4-month-old baby, movement games with his mom or dad may be enough, a 24-month-old will carefully follow the little ones short stories when read.
Children's play is more than studied, and it is known that evolves with growth; game theories establish various stages These stages appear to occur in all children, although their onset varies from child to child. These stages include the sensorimotor stage (related to functional play), the preoperational stage (symbolic play), and the concrete operational stage (which doesn't begin until around age 6 and is characterized by the ability to play with rules). It is also known that, around 12 months, the so-called 'construction play' emerges and continues throughout the years, adapted to the aforementioned stages. Understanding these stages helps in selecting toys appropriate for each stage..
For a child, playing should be the main occupation, and fulfills two very important functions: supporting development and providing happiness, increasing the latter when the game is free (that is, without rules imposed by adults). Playing is a necessary activity, and parents should 'force' ourselves to facilitate play, regardless of age; In other related posts we will remind you, since today we will focus on babies, and no one doubts that their life should revolve around games (and perhaps toys). Your presence, the floor, and everyday materials are often the best "toy".
How to choose toys for babies from 0 to 3 years: safety tips
First of all, I must remind you that when buying, you must verify that the product has the CE mark, ensuring that it has passed some tests to verify that the toy does not have small parts that could be inhaled or ingestedFurthermore, the box must clearly state that it is suitable for the age we are talking about (0 to 36 months); which explains why other toys state just the opposite: 'that it is not suitable for children under 36 months'. The age label is not a guideline; it is a safety requirement..
European regulations are very strict, and that is how it should be, because a piece that comes off could cause asphyxia by chokingand a toy painted with toxic products, can cause irritation. Always check the labeling and CE conformity.
In addition to the CE marking, it is worth considering non-toxic materials and finishes (lead- and phthalate-free paints), rounded edges, strong seams on plush toys, and that batteries (if any) are in screw-on compartments. Avoid strong magnets and button batteries in toys for children under 3 years oldSafety also includes stability and solidity of the toy so that it does not break into small pieces during use.
It is convenient to remember safety also when unpacking: boxes, seals, plastic and wrapping papers, should not be left within the reach of a small child, to avoid trapping or swallowing an object. If the baby has older siblings and they are over 7 years old, they will be explained the importance of collecting and storing their things, so that the baby cannot pick them upIf they are still young, we must become even more involved in the play of all the children, participating and at the same time ensuring that accidents do not occur. Check the condition of the toys regularly and remove any damaged ones..
Other practical criteria that add to safety and enjoyment, inspired by the best guides, are: do not overuse “smart” toys who do everything for the child, prioritize open toys that allow for different uses, and not to be conditioned by sex From the child's perspective: symbolic play is for everyone. moderate amount It helps them concentrate; too many toys can overstimulate them.
How to choose toys for babies aged 0 to 3 years: what toys to give as gifts?
Babies from 0 to 6 months
If you have a baby at these ages, you are surely amazed at how quickly they have developed the ability to follow with their eyes, move their little hands and recognize them. Their play is sensory and physical..
Are advised rubber dolls, rattlesToys with mirrors, mobiles, or tactile mats. Add soft plush toys made of hypoallergenic fabrics. silicone or natural rubber teethers and high contrast (white/black/red) books that stimulate the eyes. The activity gyms They encourage kicking, grabbing and turning the head, promoting eye-hand coordination and head control.
Key benefits: sensory stimulation (sight, hearing, touch), teething relief and the beginning of hand-eye coordinationLook for lightweight items, varied textures, and soft sounds; avoid bright lights and loud noises. Supervised prone time Using bright objects in front of you strengthens your muscles.
Babies from 7 to 12 months
Children begin to enjoy throwing objects (an activity that lasts for quite some time), and also show interest in different voices and sounds, as well as textures and colors. Crawling and the first steps toward movement also arrive.
That is why you can give away sound, stackable toys (which will make more sense from the year on), soft books with large images, boxes with holes in different shapes, the first rag dolls, and objects that can roll. Soft balls, rocking horses, and toys that encourage movement They are very positive because they accompany exploration and crawling.
It includes bathroom solutions (transfer cups, floating toysand simple circuits for pushing. This is the moment for exploratory gameThey manipulate, hit, move, and discover cause and effect (press, turn, open-close). Choose large, sturdy pieces that won't come apart.
Babies from 13 to 18 months
Most babies start walking before 16 months, are very active and have a lot of energy; many adopt experimentation as a way of life. They need movement and simple challenges.
Pull toys, balls, mini climbing structures (if you have a garden) like slidesShape and color sorting games, hard wax crayons (thick for easy gripping), large dolls… are among the favorites. Add large blocks for building, fitting and knocking down, soft mallet hitting benches and trolleys for transporting objects.
This period inaugurates the constructive playThey understand basic properties of objects (size, weight, fit). Toys that strengthen gross motor skills (pushing, pulling) and fine motor skills (fitting, inserting) are ideal. Use sturdy books with large flaps and scenes of everyday life.
Babies from 19 to 24 months
Since their curiosity leads them to want to know names and details about people outside the family, they are useful stories that recreate everyday stories, but still with many large images and little text. You can also try tricycles, puzzles, dolls, more sophisticated sound toys (such as telephones) and toys for the sandbox in the park. 8-10 piece lace sets They begin to make sense and strengthen attention and problem-solving skills.
It favors materials that allow classify by color and shapeStacking and matching are great activities. Towers of hoops, boxes with large locks, and ball tracks with ramps fascinate them. Name what they do and see enriches language.
Babies from 2 to 3 years
Their interest in gestures and imitation intensifies, and the print in books begins to capture their attention. This is why they enjoy double-sided boards (with chalk and magnetic letters, which you can save for when they're older). They also refine their motor skills and become more adept at riding small bicycles or other wheeled toys. role-playing toys (doctors, cooks) They are also a good option, provided they are age-appropriate. The symbolic game It expresses how they understand the world and enhances social skills.
Play kitchens with safe utensils, baby dolls with large accessories, plastic tool sets, and telephones and cash registers without small parts are excellent. Introduce wooden constructions More varied, 2-12 piece puzzles, simple musical instruments, and stories with short sentences. Avoid gender stereotypes: All proposals are valid for everyone.
More tips for choosing toys
- Take into account the interests of your baby, that although he is still very young, he will surely show them. Watching their game is the best guide.
- Think of toys that are fun and entertaining, not just for educational purposes. Motivation is key to learning.
- The child must be the protagonist of the game. Prevent the toy from doing everything "by itself".
- Make agreements with the family so that the amount of gifts is not excessive. Less is more for concentration.
Other aspects worth remembering: Don't be swayed by the price. (more expensive doesn't mean better), rotate the toys periodically by putting some away and bringing them out later to renew interest, and offer open materials that allow for multiple uses (blocks, fabrics, figures). Avoid overwhelming with stimuli; a small and varied selection fosters imagination.
So far, the tips for buying toys for babies from 0 to 3 years old, I hope they have been useful to you, for the next few days we will continue to recommend you types of toys for older children. Remember that the best gift is you playing with your little one and that the quality of timeshare multiplies the value of any material.
Extra security and quality features that make all the difference
Before giving a gift, go over a short checklist: Recommended age visibleCertified materials, instructions in your language, and manufacturer information. Although the CE marking already implies conformity, also look for references to EN 71 standards in the packaging (mechanical/physical, flammability and substances). Always maintain supervision with new products.
Preventive Maintenance: washes plush toys and textiles Following the instructions, check that no eyes or buttons come loose, tighten screws on tricycles and wheeled toys, and discard any deformed parts. Save by sets (boxes with complete pieces) avoids losses and frustrations.
Accessibility and order: create a play environment with low shelves and open baskets, where the child can choose and pickRotating toys every few weeks reduces clutter and renews interest without buying more. Less accumulation equates to more deep play.
Open-ended toys that grow with your baby
Open toys allow for multiple uses depending on the stage: wooden blocks, fabrics, large interlocking pieces, simple figuresAt 10 months they are used for hitting or carrying things; at 2 years they become houses, cars or imaginary food. You invest once and it accompanies years of play.
Sustainable materials: certified wood, food-grade silicone, and organic cotton fabrics contribute durability and pleasant feelChoose finishes with water-based paints and avoid added fragrances. Less noisy plastic and more real texture It promotes calm sensory exploration.
How to adjust the quantity and rotation of toys
“More is better” doesn’t apply in early childhood. Too many toys can be harmful. overload and scatter attentionKeep some of the material out of sight and perform bi-weekly rotationsYou will observe how they "rediscover" what they had stored away. Variety is achieved through rotation, not accumulation..
Family agreements: if you are going to receive gifts from several people, share one indicative list by stages (2 or 3 ideas per family) to avoid duplication and excess. Introduce non-material experiences (a trip to the park, a story time session) as alternatives. Games are also experiences.
Personality and preferences: adapt the toy to the child
Observe temperament and interests: a small explorer and active will enjoy movement circuits, balls and dragging; a more advanced profile artistic and sensitive He'll immerse himself in soft playdough, finger paints, and music; the youngest child sociable They may prefer dolls, toy kitchens, and caregiving games; and the one who is more quiet Maybe I love looking at books or silently stacking them. There is no single right way to play.
Respect their choices: offering options without labeling them (“this is for boys/girls”) allows them to explore new areas. The toy does not define identitiesIt opens up possibilities. If a toy breaks easily, it doesn't mean the child "doesn't know how to play": at these ages, exploration is intense; choose. robust and simple materials.
Quick questions to always get it right
How often should I change the toys? You don't need constant updates. Alternate what you already have (save/take out) every few weeks. Rotation renews interest without spending more.
Does the number of toys matter? Yes. Too much can be bad. to overwhelm and distractA small, well-chosen set enhances imagination and deep play.
Which toys best promote development? Those of open function: blocks, fabrics, figures, art materials, simple instruments. They force us to invent, interpret, and build.
Should I avoid “smart” toys? Use them in moderation. To learn, a child needs intervene actively, not looking at an object that does everything. Less button and more action.
Images - (Third) dannyelbrazi, (Last) Lars Ploughman.