20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (2024)

During their first year, your baby will be reaching important milestones and developing new skills. When searching for the best baby toys, it's crucial to choose toys that are age- and development-appropriate.

In the first few weeks, your beautiful new baby will show little interest in anything other than cuddles and milk. However, in a surprisingly short space of time, they will turn their heads toward music, high-contrast colours and patterns. Not long after that, they will start to make excited grabs at sensory toys within their reach.

When they get a little older, and have outgrown their baby bouncer (usually at around six months), they'll be building up their strength ready for crawling and cruising or even a little jumping in their favourite jumperoo. They’ll also be getting more dexterous by the day and will love grabbing toys and passing them from one hand to the other.

Babies learn and develop so much during that all-important first year and the best infant toys will help boost their development and understanding. “Toys support various aspects of physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. They provide opportunities for sensory exploration, fine and gross motor skill development, and creativity. Educational toys can enhance problem-solving abilities, encourage critical thinking, and promote language and communication skills,” explains child development expert, Danielle Baron.

“Overall, toys serve as valuable tools for stimulating a child's holistic development, helping them acquire essential skills and knowledge while also promoting joy and fun in the learning process.”

When it comes to finding the best baby toys for newborns and the 6-12 month stage, you want to look for toys that will help them practise these emerging skills, as well as keep them engaged for the months to come. From bath toys and play mats to the best baby walkers for those first adorable, wobbly steps, our guide to the best baby toys has you (and your little one) covered through every fun stage of their first year.

Best baby toys at a glance

How we chose and tested the best baby toys

When it comes to choosing the best products in our line up, we used a combination of recommendations, product testing and reviews to help us find the best baby toys around. With 8 million users per month, if anyone knows about the best toys on the market, it's the parents in our trusted Mumsnet community.

  • To get their independent feedback on this topic, we scoured the Mumsnet forums to find the toys for babies that real mums and dads have tried, tested and loved.

  • In addition to honest recommendations from real parents, we also visited a range of retailer sites, such as Amazon, Argos and John Lewis, and searched through the consumer reviews there to make sure all the toys came highly recommended.

  • We also did our own in-depth testing with parent testers to make sure the toys in our list are robust, high quality and worth spending your money on.

  • Finally, to make sure we chose the best and safest toys for your infant, we also researched the thoughts and opinions of child development experts. All of this helped us pick the 20 best baby toys for keeping your baby entertained.

Find the full list of the top 20 baby toys from newborn to 12 months below.

1

Best overall baby toy

1

TOMY Toomies Hide and Squeak Eggs

Best overall baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (1)

TOMY Toomies Hide and Squeak Eggs

What we like

  • Encourages shape and number recognition

  • Boosts fine and gross motor skills

  • Portable

What we don't like

  • Easy to lose the eggs and shells

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from John Lewis Buy now from Argos

Key specs

RRP: £11 | Suitable from: Six months+ | Best for age: From six months to three years | Size:‎ 20.9 x 8.3 x 14.6cm | Batteries: None | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

Who would have thought that eggs could be so much fun? Tomy’s Hide and Squeak Eggs are a huge hit with babies and toddlers, and come recommended by lots of parents thanks to the bright colours, fun expressions, and different ways you can play with them.

Younger babies from six months can have fun holding them, taking the eggs out of the shell and exploring the different colours. As they get a bit older, the toy also works as a shape sorter with each egg having a different shape on the bottom that slots into its own unique spot in the egg carton, boosting your child's developing problem-solving skills.

For an extra bit of fun, when you press each egg you hear a cheerful cheeping sound that babies absolutely love. This is a toy that can be enjoyed from six months up to three years - an egg-cellent (sorry!) in addition to your child’s toy box.

Our tester Laura says, “My daughter is almost 2 years old and the Hide and Squeak Eggs are still one of her favourite toys to play with - we bought them for her when she was around nine months old. She particularly likes colour-matching the faces on the eggshells with egg colour.”

Read next: Best baby changing mats

2

Best budget baby toy

2

Bright Starts OBall

Best budget baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (2)

Bright Starts OBall

What we like

  • Colourful

  • Easy for little hands to hold

  • Good for teething and fine motor skills

What we don't like

  • Quite big so not ideal for entertaining on the go

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from John Lewis

Key specs

RRP: £5 | Suitable from: Birth | Best for age: Six weeks+ | Size: 10.2 x 10.2 x 10.2cm | Batteries: None | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

TheLovleyChebbyMcGee · Recommended My son loved an OBall when he was really young. It’s easy to grip and colourful. Cheap too. See Post

Our verdict

The Bright Starts OBall is one of those cool baby toys that both babies and toddlers love. It’s a simple concept - a flexible and soft ball with holes in it. However, the high contrast bright colours and easy-to-grab shape make it the ideal toy for infants.

As your new baby grows, they will enjoy using the OBall as a teether and a fun shape to wrap their mouth around. It can also be rolled, chased and thrown. When squeezed, it has just enough flex to be satisfying and is robust enough to provide years of fun.

“This was a great toy that both my children enjoyed, especially when my son could sit up as he loved to roll the ball away and reach for it which was great for helping him develop his hand-eye coordination,” says our tester, Gemma.

Read next: Best toys for nine-month-olds

3

Best travel baby toy

3

Lamaze Freddie the Firefly

Best travel baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (3)

Lamaze Freddie the Firefly

What we like

  • Soft toy with bright colour and different fabrics

  • Aids sensory play to help babies learn through touch

  • Clip for attaching to pram when out and about

What we don't like

  • Not machine-washable

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from John Lewis Buy now from Boots

Key specs

RRP: £16 | Suitable from: Birth | Best for age: Birth | Size: 6 x 25 x 30cm | Batteries: None | Material: Polyester, plastic, rubber

What Mumsnet users say

waitingforwinter · Recommended How could I forget about the the Lamaze toys? Captain Calamari and Freddie the Firefly are the favourites in this house! See Post

Our verdict

Freddie The Firefly is a popular toy for keeping babies entertained whether at home or out in the pushchair. The colourful cuddly toy is made from soft velour material so babies can squeeze and cuddle it, with different textures and sounds to aid sensory development.

Each part of Freddie’s body is made from a different coloured and patterned fabric with extra features for your baby to explore, such as a mirror to look at themselves, crinkly wings and a squeaker. There’s also a teether for them to bite and chew on which is kept in a little pocket and a clip on Freddie’s head to attach him to your buggy

Two rings hang off the bottom so your baby has something to reach for when you’re out and about which helps develop fine motor skills. The toy also encourages tactile stimulation to help babies learn through their hands and mouths.

It’s a toy that can be squeezed and cuddled from birth but still has plenty to offer as your baby grows up. Our tester Laura says, “Freddie was a big hit with my daughter from birth, especially due to his bright colours and crinkly wings. While she’s less interested in this toy now that she's a toddler, it was used everyday, particularly on stroller walks, for almost a year.”

Read next: The best pram toys for babies

4

Best tummy time baby toy

4

Mamas & Papas Tummy Time Roll

Best tummy time baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (4)

Mamas & Papas Tummy Time Roll

What we like

  • Suitable for a variety of ages

  • Soft, comfy material

  • A variety of textures to encourage babies to push up and use their hands

  • Mirror encourages facial recognition

  • Can be used for tummy time and sitting

What we don't like

  • Lighter colour might show dirt quicker and be harder to clean

  • The cushion should only be used under close supervision

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Boots

Key specs

RRP: £16 | Suitable from: From birth (Three months is optimal) | Best for age: Six months | Size: ‎18x 41 x 20cm. | Batteries: None | Material: Polyester

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

While tummy time is important for helping to strengthen your baby's muscles, not all babies are fans of it and may quickly start to cry, becoming irritable and tired. You can make tummy time more comfortable and engaging by giving your baby something fun to roll on and look at, like this Tummy Time Roll from Dream Upon a Cloud.

The soft, tube-shaped design is perfect for helping your baby prop themselves up on their arms, promoting shoulder and neck strength. It features engaging sounds and textures, including crinkles, squeaks, and rattles, as well as a side mirror to capture your little one’s attention.

Even babies who aren’t fond of tummy time will be tempted to push themselves up to see and explore the soft toys on the pillow. At under £20, we think it’s great value, especially since you can also use the pillow to help prop your baby up when practicing sitting.

Read next: Best ear defenders for babies and toddlers, as recommended by parents

5

Best baby toy for teething

5

Sophie La Girafe

Best baby toy for teething

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (5)

Sophie La Girafe

Key specs

RRP: £16 | Suitable from: Birth | Best for age: First signs of teething | Size: 3 x 9 x 18cm | Batteries: None | Material: Natural rubber

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

Sophie La Girafe is an award-winning classic that has been loved by babies and parents for decades. A cross between a squeaky toy and a teether, Sophie is crafted from natural rubber that has been sourced from the Hevea tree and has soothing properties for teething babies (don’t forget, when those first pearly whites finally appear, it'll be time to invest in a good baby toothbrush too).

Sophie’s smiley face is adorable, and her high-contrast spotted pattern is great for eyes that haven’t yet developed fully. She is soft to the touch and easy to grab. In addition, when squeezed gently, she makes a gentle bleat which helps with hand-eye coordination and teaches action and reward principles.

Our tester Gemma says, “My daughter loved squeezing Sophie and playing with her and moving the toy from hand to hand. Most of all, she enjoyed chewing on Sophie’s head, legs and arms, which helped when she was teething, especially when it was particularly bad.”

Read next: Best baby nail clippers

6

Best baby toy with lights and sounds

6

Baby Einstein Glow & Discover Light Bar Musical Activity Station

Best baby toy with lights and sounds

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (6)

Baby Einstein Glow & Discover Light Bar Musical Activity Station

What we like

  • Colours and lights for fun sensory play

  • Good for encouraging tummy time

  • Stand props up the bar when baby can sit up and play

What we don't like

  • Some reviewers found the stand to be quite flimsy

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from John Lewis Buy now from Argos

Key specs

RRP: £22 Suitable from: Three months | Best for age: Three months | Size: ‎14 x 32 x 22cm | Batteries: 3 x AAA | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

With music, lights, colours and animals, this musical toy by Baby Einstein has been designed to make tummy time more fun and keep babies engaged for longer. The toy bar lies flat on the ground so that babies are encouraged to lie on their tummy and lift up their neck.

The bar lights up by touching the coloured buttons or spinning the rattle so babies can get plenty of sensory stimulation. There are three sound modes: animals, colours and xylophone so that your baby can learn as they play. It also has a stand to prop up the bar for when your baby can sit up. For this reason, the toy bar can grow with your child so it will still get plenty of play when they are moving around.

Thanks to the noises and colours, the Glow & Discover Light Bar is a toy that promotes learning through sensory play and also encourages fine and gross motor skills, such as hand-eye coordination, and building up strength for moving around.

Read next: Best tummy time toys

7

Best versatile baby toy

7

Bright Starts 5-in-1 Your Way Ball Play Activity Gym and Ball Pit

Best versatile baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (7)

Bright Starts 5-in-1 Your Way Ball Play Activity Gym and Ball Pit

What we like

  • Grows with your child, with plenty of features

  • Detachable toys

  • Machine-washable and wipe-clean

What we don't like

  • Pricey

  • One reviewer found the foam shrunk after washing

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from John Lewis Buy now from Argos

Key specs

RRP: £80 | Suitable from: Birth | Best for age: Birth | Size: 113 x 52 x 76cm | Batteries: Yes (3x AAA) | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

The Bright Starts 5-in-1 Your Way Ball Play Activity Gym and Ball Pit is a toy that has been designed with versatility in mind, offering different options as your child grows. It offers a comfortable and fun place to play when your baby is small, with five different options, including a ball pit (with 40 balls), for when your baby moves into toddlerhood.

Younger babies can lie on the 48-inch mat during tummy time or play with the seven hanging toys, which include an elephant music player, crinkle toy, mirror, flashcards, hanging leaf toy and bead rattle. The mat even has adjustable walls so you can be sure your baby stays safe during playtime. Turn on the elephant and it will entertain your baby with over 20 minutes of melodies.

Toys like this encourage babies to develop their motor skills as they reach and grab for toys as well as aiding physical development through tummy time play. Although it can be washed, one reviewer did say the mat shrank when machine-washed.

Read next: Best baby play mats

8

Best sensory baby toy

8

Infantino Textured 6-Piece Multi Ball Set

Best sensory baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (8)

Infantino Textured 6-Piece Multi Ball Set

What we like

  • Portable and lightweight

  • Sensory textures

  • Easy for little ones to grasp

What we don't like

  • Good bath toys but they need to be cleaned to prevent mould

Key specs

RRP: £11 | Suitable from: Birth | Best for age: From six weeks | Size: 9 x 23 x 23 cm | Batteries: None | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

sohypnotic · Recommended Sensory balls and flashing balls are also good. See Post

Our verdict

Newborn development toys should have a range of textures, and these clever A-Z Sensory Play Balls are perfect for small hands and mouths to explore. They are excellent value, and babies will love to squish, throw and roll them. They also make fab bath toys to distract a reluctant child while you are washing their hair with baby shampoo too.

The six balls have come with textures that are interesting to feel and easy for small hands to hold and make a squeaking sound when squeezed. The different shape, size and textures help babies learn about spatial awareness, improve their hand-eye coordination as well as colour and shape recognition.

In addition, they are useful teethers. To keep them hygienic, wash them in hot, soapy water – just make sure they are dried carefully so they don’t go mouldy.

Our parent tester Laura says, “This ball set was one of my toddler’s favourite toys, especially around the six-month mark. The different textures and sizes are really appealing to little ones, and the balls are an excellent way to practise throwing when they get a bit older too.”

9

Best soft baby toy

9

Clementoni Baby Stitch Musical Plush

Best soft baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (9)

Clementoni Baby Stitch Musical Plush

What we like

  • Grows with your baby, offering fun from 0-36 months.

  • Engages multiple senses with songs, sounds, and textures.

  • Two modes: play for fun and calm for soothing moments.

  • Bright, colourful design supports visual development.

  • Includes a removable pineapple rattle for added play.

  • Features songs, textured ears, a squeaky tail, and more for interactive fun.

What we don't like

  • Limited number of educational songs compared to similar toys

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Very

Key specs

RRP: £15 | Suitable from: Three months | Best for age: Six- 12 months | Size: ‎23 x 16 x 30cm | Batteries: 2 x AAA | Material: ‎Polyester

Our verdict

Hailed as one of the most beloved Disney characters for babies and toddlers, the Baby Stitch Musical Plush is a cuddly and entertaining toy destined to become your little one’s best friend. This soft plush toy is perfect for snuggling, making it a comforting companion during naps or bedtime. Beyond cuddles, Baby Stitch offers interactive fun with features that both soothe and engage your baby.

With a simple touch of its foot, Baby Stitch plays age-appropriate songs and nursery rhymes, providing a musical experience that little ones will love. While it doesn’t offer as many educational songs as other soft toys like the Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Smart Stages Puppy, it still holds its own as a source of delightful entertainment. The removable pineapple rattle adds an extra layer of play, ensuring plenty of variety to keep babies engaged.

Designed with sensory exploration in mind, Baby Stitch boasts textured, crinkly ears for tactile stimulation and a cute squeaker on the tail for auditory fun. Its soft, large design also doubles as a cushion for tummy time, encouraging babies to lie down and strengthen their muscles.

10

Best baby book

10

Meg and Mog by Helen Nicoll

Best baby book

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (10)

Meg and Mog by Helen Nicoll

What we like

  • Colourful illustrations

  • Textures to touch on every page

  • Range of books to help babies learn language and sensory skills

What we don't like

  • No textures or sensory objects on the pages

  • Children might outgrow the book quickly

Key specs

RRP: £7 | Suitable from: Birth | Best for age: Six - 12 months | Size: 22 x 0.38 x 22 cm | Batteries: No

What Mumsnet users say

DoraChance · Recommended Meg and Mog was the first book my son loved, learning to clap when 'there was a flash and a BANG'. See Post

Our verdict

It’s never too early to start reading to your baby. Even as a newborn nestled in your arms, story time can be a lovely bonding experience for you and your little one. The Meg and Mog series of books have been around for years and are a great introduction to books for babies and toddlers, as well as helping them to develop language and sensory skills.

Author, Helen Nicoll has a special way of mixing everyday objects, animals, and insects into her stories, making Meg and Mog magical and easy for little ones to relate to. Babies and toddlers enjoy spotting familiar things like eggs, milk, and jam in Meg’s cauldron, which makes the story playful and exciting. This special 50th-anniversary edition of Meg and Mog is full of humour and charm, as one of Meg’s spells goes hilariously wrong at a Halloween party.

The story is told simply and clearly, with big, descriptive text and colourful pictures over 28 pages. The bright illustrations encourage babies to look at the pages and point out different things. The combination of fun words and eye-catching images makes this book perfect for little readers.

If your child loves Meg and Mog, there’s more to enjoy! The Complete Collection: Meg and Mog Magical Adventures has even more stories about their adventures. One Mumsnetter, onemouseplace, says, "Meg's Eggs, Meg's Castle, Meg at Sea, Meg's Car, and Meg at the Zoo are all brilliant."

Read next: Best toddler books

11

Best soothing baby toy

11

Sweet Dreamers Ewan the Dream Sheep

Best soothing baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (11)

Sweet Dreamers Ewan the Dream Sheep

What we like

  • Soft cuddly toy

  • Calms baby at bedtime with soothing sounds

  • Soft pink night light

What we don't like

  • Some users feel the timer cuts off too early

  • Hand wash only

Key specs

RRP: £30 | Suitable from: Newborn | Best for age: Newborn | Size: 7.1 x 5.9 x 3.9cm | Batteries:3 x AAA | Material: Plush fabric

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

It’s likely that even if you don’t have a Ewan The Dream Sheep, you’ve heard of it. A cuddly toy which works as a sleep aid and a calming night light, Ewan has helped many babies (and parents) get a better night’s sleep.

The toy plays soothing white and pink noise, including a womb and heartbeat sound to help calm your baby at bedtime and lull them into sleep. Other sounds include rainfall, a vacuum cleaner and a harp melody which are all combined with the sound of a parent’s resting heartbeat to help replicate the comfort of the womb. Combined with the soft pink nightlight, it can help calm restless babies. He can even be taken out in the pram or car for soothing on the go.

Some users find the 20-minute timer is too short and Ewan also isn’t machine-washable which isn’t ideal for a baby toy, but handwashing could be a small price to pay for a good night’s sleep.

Read next: Best white noise machines for babies

12

Best baby toy for 6 months-plus

12

Fisher-Price Roarin' Rainforest Jumperoo

Best baby toy for 6 months-plus

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (12)

Fisher-Price Roarin' Rainforest Jumperoo

What we like

  • Develops sensory, gross motor and curiosity skills

  • Reliable brand

  • Mixture of lights, sounds and textures

What we don't like

  • Large

  • Pricey

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from ASDA

Key specs

RRP: £75 | Suitable from: Manufacturer recommends babies should be able to hold head independently but not able to walk yet (up to 11.3kg) | Best for age: Six months+ | Size: 19 x 61 x 59.5cm | Batteries: 3x AA | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

The Jumperoo has been a firm favourite with babies and parents since Fisher-Price first released it in 2004 and has been awarded the best overall jumperoo title on our Best Jumperoos Buyer's Guide. It has so many features that will keep babies entertained while also helping them develop key skills - love that the seat spins through 360 degrees so that your baby can reach all the different toys. As they bounce and move around they’ll be advancing their gross motor skills too, making this great for sensory play.

The toys on the Jumperoo include spinners, clickers, a mirror and a bead bar which all help babies learn about cause and effect, develop their fine motor skills, and stimulate their senses. It’s incredibly safe too, thanks to the sturdy steel frame and soft spring covers to keep little fingers safe. The seat pad is also machine-washable and can be popped in the washing machine and tumble dryer, so any little accidents can be sorted out quickly and easily.

“Be warned this is not a small toy,” says our tester, Gemma. “However, if you have the space for it, you won’t regret it. Both of my babies had lots of fun jumping up and down in the Jumperoo and spinning round in the seat to play with the different toys.”

13

Best budget toy for 6 months-plus

13

MTS Baby Stacking Cups

Best budget toy for 6 months-plus

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (13)

MTS Baby Stacking Cups

What we like

  • Multiple ways to play

  • Stacking cups are also one of the best bath toys

  • Improves fine and gross motor skills

  • Good for problem-solving

What we don't like

  • Smaller cups can be lost easily

Key specs

RRP: £7 | Suitable from: Manufacturer recommends 12 months+ (but many reviewers have used them from six months with supervision) | Best for age: From six months | Size: 20.6 x 18 x 8cm | Batteries: None | Material:Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

Dipsydoodlenoodle · Recommended My eight-month-old likes stacking cups. She has no idea what they are but she loves knocking my towers down, looking at them and chasing the loose cups around. See Post

Our verdict

They might seem simple, but stacking cups are one of the best baby toys from six months old when it comes to development. They help build fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as babies turn them in their hands and try to build their own towers. They also help to teach cause and effect as they knock down towers you build for them, and gross motor skills as they reach for the fallen cups.

These stacking cups from MTS also help with early colour and number recognition and are the perfect size for little hands. As your baby grows, stacking cups are sure to stay a favourite, with many toddlers and older children enjoying them, especially in the bath.

14

Best baby walker

14

VTech First Steps Baby Walker

Best baby walker

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (14)

VTech First Steps Baby Walker

What we like

  • Activity panel can be removed for further play

  • Lots of features to entertain and engage babies

  • Prepares them for walking independently in the future

What we don't like

  • They may get more out of it when they're starting to properly walk

  • It's advised that you limit baby walker use to no more than 20 minutes at a time

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Argos Buy now from Early Learning Centre

Key specs

RRP: £43 | Suitable from: Six months+ | Best for age: From nine months | Size: ‎46 x 45 x 40cm | Batteries: 2x AA batteries | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

DuneFan · Recommended Baby walkers - everyone seems to have the VTech one. My nine-month-old loves pressing the buttons although she's nowhere near walking yet. My three-year-old still plays with it too. See Post

Our verdict

Although a baby at six months old most likely won't be at the first-steps stage yet, learning to walk is a huge milestone from approximately 10 months onwards, and the VTech Baby Walker is the ideal aid. For babies closer to six months, the activity panel on the front can be removed and played with on the floor, making for a brilliant interactive toy before they pull up to stand.

It has a shape sorter, gears to turn, animal buttons and a toy phone for endless fun. As your baby gets older and starts to pull themselves up, the baby walker provides support to help them strengthen, balance and prepare for the taking of those first wobbly steps. The interactive fun also appeals to toddlers far older than those learning to walk too - meaning you could be getting years' worth of fun for under £50.

Read next: Best baby walkers

15

Best baby bath toy

15

Nuby Fun Watering Can

Best baby bath toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (15)

Nuby Fun Watering Can

What we like

  • Appeals to a wide range of ages

  • Great toy for the paddling pool

  • Cheap and cheerful

What we don't like

  • Some reviewers have said it's smaller than expected

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Boots Buy now from Nuby

Key specs

RRP: £6 | Suitable from: Six months | Best for age: Six months | Size: ‎‎15.5 x 13.5 x 9.5cm | Batteries: None | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

BlueEyed · Recommended Plastic jug, cups, watering can and a colander are favourites here! See Post

Our verdict

Toy watering cans are always one of the best bath toys, providing hours of entertainment from the simple action of scooping water, tipping the can and watching it sprinkle back out.

Suitable for babies aged six months and above, the Nuby Fun Watering Can has a bright and engaging design with an easy-grip handle that’s perfectly sized for little ones to hold.

Enhancing their sensory development, the Nuby Watering Can helps build hand-eye coordination and teaches children about cause and effect as they watch the bubbles wash off their skin by tipping or tilting the can. In the warmer months, it will make a brilliant addition to the paddling pool too.

Read next: Best baby thermometers

16

Best baby toy for gross motor skills

16

VTech Crawl and Learn Bright Lights Ball

Best baby toy for gross motor skills

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (16)

VTech Crawl and Learn Bright Lights Ball

What we like

  • Good toy to help babies learn how to crawl

  • Colours and lights to help stimulate hand-eye coordination

  • Plays music as it rolls

What we don't like

  • Doesn’t roll easily on carpeted floors

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Argos

Key specs

RRP: £20 | Suitable from: Six months | Best for age: Six months | Size: ‎16.4 x 16.4 x 17.7cm | Batteries: 3 x AA | Material: Plastic

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

If your child is at crawling age, from around seven months, the VTech Crawl and Learn Ball will provide plenty of fun as they get on the move. If your baby is reluctant to start crawling, the ball rolls around to gently encourage them to move.

The ball has lots of fun features, such as bright colours and lights, to capture your baby’s attention, and big buttons that can be easily pressed by small hands to help them learn about numbers, animals and more. Not only has it been designed to help babies start crawling, but as they learn to reach out and push the toy along the floor, press the buttons and slide the turtle, it helps babies to develop fine motor skills as well as introducing cause and effect.

During playtime, babies can also listen to the 12 melodies and four sing-along songs that are sung by the animals: the dog, cat, bear and rabbit. Be warned though, users say it doesn’t roll easily on carpeted floors.

17

Best wooden baby toy

17

Jaques of London Wooden Rainbow

Best wooden baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (17)

Jaques of London Wooden Rainbow

What we like

  • Excellent quality

  • Rainbow coloured crescent encourages sorting and stacking

  • Montessori toy that will last into the toddler years

What we don't like

  • Can only really be used from 10 months plus

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from OnBuy

Key specs

RRP: £14 | Suitable from: Six months | Best for age: 10 months+ | Size: 19.8 x 10 x 3.8cm | Batteries: None | Material: Wood

What Mumsnet users say

Letsallscreamatthesistene · Recommended Another vote for Jaques of London. Good quality and reasonably priced. See Post MidnightOnceMore · Recommended All mine loved this wooden rainbow, it got so many years' use. See Post

Our verdict

If you want a break from the usual plastic toys, this rainbow stacking toy makes a gorgeous fun and educational toy for babies. Shape stacking toys like this one from Jaques of London help babies develop problem-solving skills.

While at first your baby may simply enjoy looking at the colourful crescent arches of the rainbow and exploring them with their hands, this is a toy that can be played with again and again as they get older and work out how to stack the different shaped arches to make the rainbow. Stacking the crescents together helps them to develop fine motor skills, as well as resilience as they keep trying to balance them and put them in the correct order. Stacking toys also help children develop logic and reasoning skills.

A gorgeous wooden toy that will look lovely stored around your home, this is a great option for babies, and will no doubt be played with for months and even years after.

18

Best classic baby toy

18

Manhattan Toy Skwish

Best classic baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (18)

Manhattan Toy Skwish

What we like

  • Encourages reaching and grasping

  • Sensory toy

  • Suitable for teething

What we don't like

  • Tricky to clean

Key specs

RRP: £14 | Suitable from: Birth | Best for age: All ages | Size: ‎‎‎‎15 x 15 x 15cm | Batteries: None | Material: Wood

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

The Manhattan Skwish is as unique and intriguing as its name! It’s suitable from birth, and babies of all ages will be drawn to its lovely bright colours and interesting shape. It's small enough for them to grasp and bright enough to hold their attention while you brush their teeth or trim their talons.

Babies from the age of six to 12 months will love turning this toy in their hands and exploring the beads that gently rattle and slide along the wooden dowels. It's also one of the best teething toys for babies as well.

19

Best baby toy for on the go

19

Jellycat Jungly Tails Book

Best baby toy for on the go

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (19)

Jellycat Jungly Tails Book

What we like

  • Simple story with colourful illustrations

  • Soft crinkly book with different textures

  • Velcro loop for playing with in the pram

What we don't like

  • Sponge clean only

Buy now from John Lewis Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

RRP: £15 | Suitable from: Birth | Best for age: Birth | Size: 21 x 12cm | Batteries: None| Material: Not stated

What Mumsnet users say

GETTINGLIKEMYMOTHER · Recommended The Tails books by Jellycat are lovely for babies past the tiny stage. See Post

Our verdict

Made from soft materials that crinkle when touched, the Jellycat Jungly Tails Book is very popular with babies. With colourful animal illustrations and tails that stick out of the pages for children to touch and squeeze, the book provides lots of fun and learning through sensory play.

The book can be enjoyed by babies as they begin reaching and grabbing for things and older babies will enjoy finding out which tail the animals belong to.

We like that there is a Velcro loop for attaching to your pram or infant car seat so your baby can be entertained while on the go. Unfortunately, it can’t be machine-washed which isn’t ideal when it’s likely to end up in your baby’s mouth.

Our parent tester Laura says, “The Jellycat Jungly Tails book is such a fun sensory toy for newborns and beyond. My daughter loved the bright colours and different textures for each tail. We regularly clipped it onto the buggy for outings, and it was the ideal stimulating read when she was small.”

20

Best musical baby toy

20

Baby Einstein Hape Magic Touch Piano

Best musical baby toy

  • 20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (20)

Baby Einstein Hape Magic Touch Piano

What we like

  • Good quality

  • Plays a wide variety of tunes and music

  • Includes animal sounds (dogs and cats)

  • Musical cards are durable and easy to use and clean

What we don't like

  • Not ideal for babies who want to stand while using it

  • Only the keyboard is made of wood

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from John Lewis Buy now from Argos

Key specs

RRP: £20 | Suitable from: Six months | Best for age: Six months | Size: 17.7 x 5.7 x 12.7cm | Batteries: Three AA batteries | Material: Wood and plastic

What Mumsnet users say

Our verdict

With Montessori-inspired designs and STEAM-focused content, Baby Einstein creates high-quality products designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and adapt to your child’s growing skills and interests. The Baby Einstein Hape Magic Touch Piano is a semi-wooden toy that allows children to explore musical creation. Equipped with a keyboard featuring magic touch technology, this piano plays six popular melodies, including lullabies and nursery rhymes, at the touch of a button.

The toy includes two instrument sounds (piano and xylophone) and two animal voices (dog and cat), providing variety to engage young children. With five bright buttons, children can easily switch between sounds, helping them understand cause and effect. On successful playing of the included music cards, the rest of the tune is automatically played, and the piano even applauds your little one’s efforts!

The music cards are durable, wipeable, and designed for long-lasting use. It offers good value for money, is a convenient size, easy to play, and is a great choice for a baby’s first instrument. However, some parents find that it's not an ideal shape for babies who like to play with toys while standing up, unless it's placed on an activity table.

What to look for in a baby toy

If you’re choosing a toy for your baby, here are a few tips on what to look for:

  • Age: Each toy is given an age grading by the manufacturer. While it can be tempting to buy a toy because it looks fun or lasts longer, bear in mind what age it has been recommended for. For instance, a toy for a one-year-old may not be interesting to a three-month-old, and toys that are for age three plus may have small pieces that are choking hazards so should be avoided for babies. Age recommendations don’t mean that’s the only time they will be interested in it - some toys may last for years. It’s more of a guide to help you understand whether your baby will be interested in it and if it is safe for their age.

  • Safety: Make sure it has been made by a trusted manufacturer that complies with safety standards and is suitable for your baby's age.

  • Material: Baby toys are often plastic, but you can also get them in more natural materials like wood. Bear in mind that from approximately three months old, babies put everything in their mouths to help them learn. For this reason, plastic is easier to clean and sterilise. Try to give your baby a range of toys with different shapes and textures for them to explore.

  • Contrasting colours and patterns:A young baby doesn’t have fully developed eyesight and high-contrast images, with defined edges, are much easier for them to see and interact with. Black and white toys may seem boring, but they will capture a newborn's attention more than pretty pastels.

  • Music and sounds:Babies love tracking fun sounds and they will build head and neck strength as they look around. Music, nature sounds, crinkly fabric, and squeakers are all fascinating for little ones.

  • Action and reward:Interactive elements in a toy are educational and gratifying, even for the smallest babies. As they play, make sure you give plenty of loving encouragement too. Place the rattle in their hand, press the buttons that play music together and show them their gorgeous little face in the activity mat mirror.

  • Budget: Babies don’t need lots of toys, two or three that they love will do. Your attention as they play is more important. Singing, gently dancing, and talking to them about what they are seeing are lovely ways to encourage your baby and show your love, and they don’t cost anything. If you do invest, choose toys that will last. Activity toys with several modes of play, sensory toys, and books are all great ideas.

  • Age-appropriate challenges: While at first your newborn baby will simply look at toys from afar, as they get older, age-appropriate toys will provide the right kind of stimulation and learning. From about three months, look for toys that encourage your baby to reach and grab, as well as offering different textures for them to explore.

    “This can include smooth and hard surfaces which are ideal for teething infants, providing relief and promoting oral exploration, and crinkly materials can create auditory and tactile excitement when squeezed. Textured surfaces, featuring bumps, ridges, or raised patterns, encourage tactile exploration and stimulate the sense of touch,” child development expert Danielle Baron explains. “These diverse textures enrich a child's early developmental experiences.”

    Toys that encourage tummy time are also worth considering as they aid physical development for babies. “They strengthen their muscles and foster essential motor skills. These toys include tummy time mats and baby-safe mirrors which motivate infants to raise their heads, enhancing neck and upper body strength. Toys that encourage reaching and grasping improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, while rattles, squeaky toys, and activity gyms encourage babies to move their arms and interact with the toys, furthering their gross motor skills," Danielle adds.

    As babies reach the six-month mark, they’ll enjoy toys that they can spin and build, then by around eight or nine months they will like toys which they can sort, hide and stack. Shape sorters and stacking toys can be ideal around this time.

What toys should a newborn have?

Sensory toys with sounds, music, colours, textures, and patterns will aid your baby's mental and physical development. They will also delight throughout their first year, so they are good value. Look for lightweight toys designed to be grabbed, held, and gnawed too.

What toys should every 6-month-old have?

There are no hard and fast rules about what toys your baby should be playing with, as long as they’re safe and age-appropriate. We do love theFisher-Price Jumperoothough for all the features that it offers. It is so much more than just a bouncer, with interactive toys for babies to explore and enjoy. They also last really well as they’re so sturdy and well made, so they can easily be passed on to family or friends when your baby outgrows it.

And you can’t go wrong with a classic set ofstacking cups that will keep babies entertained for ages. They’re also really easy to pop in a bag to take to the grandparents if they offer to babysit for you.

Read next: The best Montessori toys for babies and toddlers

How to use baby toys safely

Safety is always a parent’s top priority when it comes to their baby. So naturally you want to make sure that the toys you pick out for them are safe and that you and your baby use them properly.

When it comes to choosing toys for your baby, here are the three key things to keep in mind:

Trustworthy toys

Only buy from reputable retailers and brands you trust. Consumer reviews are a good indication that a toy is authentic and high quality too.

Safety standard checks

Check that the toy you want to buy has the UKCA or the CE mark. These marks show that the toy has been made to certain health, safety, and environmental standards. Also look for the British Toy and Hobby Association’s mark on the label. This shows the toy was made by a member of the British Toy and Hobby Association and that the manufacturer has made a commitment to making good quality, safe toys.

Suitable for your child's age

Always check the manufacturer’s recommended age for any toys you buy and double check for any small parts that could be potential choking hazards.

Once you’ve got your new toys home there are some things you can do to make sure you and your baby play with them safely. Firstly, you should only let your baby use their toys when you’re there to supervise. It's also essential that you follow sleep safety advice from The Lullaby Trust: keep their cot clear, and never put your baby down to sleep with toys in their cot.

Another thing to be aware of is faulty toys, as they could be potentially dangerous. Regardless of how trustworthy the brand or retailer is, you should assess your baby's toys regularly for threads coming loose on fabrics, stuffing coming out of soft toys, sharp edges, damage, and general wear and tear.

About the author

Gemma Wilcock is a freelance writer and copywriter. At Mumsnet, she creates content providing useful parenting advice, information and top products to make life easier – as a mother of two children herself, Gemma knows how important it is to get the right advice.

After working on women’s weekly magazines for nine years, Gemma turned to freelance writing to fit around family life, writing for a range of online and print publications, charities and small businesses. She loves writing about subjects that will be helpful to the reader – and herself! - including recommending top products on Mumsnet that help parents in their day-to-day life.

She knows how important online reviews are when it comes to making a purchase so she always makes sure to thoroughly research every product so we are recommending the best ones on the market. With a young daughter and a son, she has played with lots of different toys over the years so drew on her own personal experience to ensure the best baby toys on this list were up to scratch.

About the author

Tammy Jacks has over 20 years of experience in the publishing industry, holding key roles such as Managing Editor and Health & Beauty Editor for Woman & Home magazine in South Africa, and Assistant Editor for Living and Loving—a parenting title focused on children's health and development.

She has also contributed to various lifestyle publications (including magazines, journals, and newspapers) and edited books for fitness influencers and health professionals. As a researcher and writer, Tammy specialises in children's development, wellbeing, and safety. Over the years, she has reviewed countless toys and developmental aids for children.

20 Best Baby Toys from Newborn to 12 Months 2024 | Mumsnet (2024)

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