Day 2: Toys for Babies

OK, so you've got a new baby in the family, and mom and dad seem completely stocked with clothes and diapers.  What do you get for the baby who needs nothing?  Here's a quick list of wonderful toys that focus on baby's developing skills.  The best part?  Four out of five are under $15!  You're welcome.

 Mirror Crib Toy

Babies love looking at other babies, and seeing another baby when they're in their crib offers comfort and distraction for times they might get lonely.  The mirror also transitions nicely out of the crib to incorporate into floor play.

First Blocks and Shape Sorter

Both of my kids STILL play with this toy.  We bought it for Alexandria for her first birthday.  As soon as Marcus could crawl, he was into it.  It's compact, self-contained, and easy to play with.  The box stores nicely. 

Stackable Rings



Oh the classics.  Rings on a post.  I love this one because the base of the toy is curved, so as your baby is attempting to put the rings on the post, their motor skills are challenged with the gentle rocking of the base.  I prefer the Fisher Price version over the wood versions because there are no sharp edges.  In most cases, I LOVE wooden toys, but the wooden post in this toy makes me nervous.  I prefer the rounded edge of this post.

Discovery Mozart Music Cube

I'm breaking my own rule here.  This battery-operated beauty is a Gamble House favorite.  Dave insisted on getting it for Alexandria's birthday, and she loved it.  Marcus got it when he was a wee one, and he still plays with it over a year later.  The cube plays 6 different Mozart tunes, and the baby controls what instruments they want to hear.  He can listen to just the piano or harp, or the entire orchestra.  Basically, it breaks down the contribution of each instrument.  Even as an adult, I think it's kind of cool to hear a piece by the whole orchestra, and then listen to the same piece as played by the harp only.  It's a completely different experience.

Links

This is easily the most un-sexy baby toy of all time, but these rings will get more use than you can imagine.  Mom can attach snack cups, sippy cups, and toys to the stroller and car seat to avoid "loss by toss."  It doesn't matter what kind of links you get, but every child needs these.  As they get older, they become useful in developing hand-eye coordination as the child attempts to link the rings together himself.

There you go!  Happy shopping!