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What toys are best for young children?

Here are some lists of toys that are beneficial for infants and toddlers. Remember safety is the number one concern!


Birth to 6 Months
Toys are mostly for looking, listening, sucking, grasping or fingering:
  • Unbreakable crib mirror
  • Toys to bat or kick, mouth or manipulate
  • Toys on suction cups attached to high chair tray.

7 to 12 Months
Toys that can support their interest in exploring, practicing and expanding their skills:
  • Soft, lightweight blocks
  • One-piece push toys
  • Grasping toys that require variety of manipulation

1 Year Old
One year olds are increasingly mobile and want to practice motor skills, such as carrying toys, or moving them from place to place.
  • 3-5 piece puzzles with knobs
  • Push and pull toys
  • Sturdy books to "read" together

2 Years Old
Two year olds love active, physical play.  They enjoy manipulating and exploring objects with more deliberate experimentation.  They are very interested in interactive dramatic play.
  • Crayons, paints, markers, play-dough, sturdy paper beads for stringing
  • Matching/sorting toys
  • Dress up clothes

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