Every child loves to cause reactions, make a mess and experiment with different tastes, textures and sounds. Having the appropriate toys on hand will help you to encourage this desire to play, so that they grow, learn and develop to be the best they can be!
My Recommended Toy Companies
If the choice of toys is overwhelming and you want to get it right when it comes to developmental toys then get yourself a subscription from Lovevery. They offer stage-based play essentials from 0-4 that takes the headache out of choosing the right toys for the right age. Well worth the investment.
Love this website for all of its products. Wooden, long-lasting well made. All your top toys in one place.
For an excellent range of toys and more take a look at Wee Gallery. They have an excellent range of toys and baby gear to choose from and I especially like their books etc for newborns.
My Must Have Toys
Building blocks of all kinds are great for your little one but soft blocks are a perfect place to start. This collection has the added benefit of sensory surfaces that are easy for little hands to handle and explore and will grow with your baby.
We all know the importance of tummy time and there is no better way to keep your baby engaged during this essential activity than with a tummy time mirror. This one from Sassy is sturdy but soft and has a large good quality mirror that is guaranteed to grab baby's attention. It also comes in a black and white colourway.
There are so many play gyms out there and lots of them are great but I was especially impressed by this one from Finn and Emma. This company do a great range of toys and baby gear and I often feel that for small babies less is more so really like the simple classy design of this play gym.
This is a great sensory ball from Sassy which I am sure will become a firm favourite. Ideal for little hands and offering lots of different textures and sounds, this is a great little ball.
Babies love rattles and if you only buy one then this one is a great choice. This multisensory teething rattle has so much to offer in one package and I will guarantee that your little one will love exploring this great little toy.
If you want to provide a comfy safe space for your baby to crawl and play then look no further than Wander and Roams floor mat collection. Durable, comfy and easy to clean with lovely designs they will compliment any home.
As shape sorters go you can't go wrong with this sturdy staple from Melissa and Doug. It does exactly what is says on the tin is easy for little hands to handle and will be a great addition to the toy box.
This delightful wooden stacking rainbow toy from Our Littles Co features a timeless and aesthetically pleasing design, making it a delightful addition to any nursery or playroom decor. Crafted from high-quality, child-safe wood, this stacker toy is designed to withstand hours of play for years to come!
Once your little one can sit they will love an activity cube to play with. I really like this Montessori inspired wooden cube with its bright colours. Not overwhelming as some cubes can be but just the right amount of stimulating activities to keep your little one engaged. Made with non-toxic paints, it is sturdy, just the right size and versatile too.
As your baby starts to crawl and beyond they will love a pull toy. Brio have a great range and I especially like this pull along duck.
No nursery is complete without wooden blocks. They provide hours of fun and education through play from honing fine motor skills, improving problem-solving, developing creativity and teaching colours and shapes. My favourite is this colourful set from Melissa and Doug.
All children should have a set of musical instruments to experiment with. As you know I am a huge fan of wooden toys and so this set ticks all the right boxes for me. It will have longevity and is safe for little ones to chew should they feel the need.
A tunnel is a great way to get your baby to practice crawling. This collapsable one from Melissa and Doug can be easily stowed away and brought out when needed to be used indoors and out. I like the fact it allows in lots of light so is not too intimidating for little ones to venture into.
Another toy staple is the baby walker and there are a lot out there to choose from. I really like this one from Le Toy Van. It is eco friendly, safe and sturdy and will be a firm favourite with your toddler before, during and after they learn to walk independently!
Unlock a world of imaginative play with that Tiny Land play kitchen, where young chefs create delicious fun!
Strictly built to the highest standard, play with this toy will put your mind at ease whilst your little one has a fantastic time!
Another favourite from Melissa and Doug. A must have toy for all toddlers. Bold and easy to use your little one will love bashing away at this cause and effect toy that will improve fine motor skills.
All children love a little house and a teepee is a versatile set up that you can use both indoors and out. This is an item tha will grow with your child's imagination and provide hours of fun for you and them. The perfect setting for nursery tea parties and a cosy snuggle spot for hanging out and reading together or alone.