Cruising Through Playtime: A Guide to Toys for Babies Aged 6-12 Months
Hello again, seasoned and newbie parents alike!
If you've been with us from the beginning, you already know how playtime can be both a joy and a puzzle in your little one's first six months. (Missed our previous blog? No worries! Check it out here: "Toying Around: A Newborn’s Playtime Guide from 0-6 Months.")
Now, let's take a playful leap into the next phase — 6 to 12 months. Your baby isn't just a tiny blob of cuteness anymore; they're becoming a curious explorer, complete with budding motor skills and a growing sense of the world around them. Ready to discover the must-have toys for this stage? Let's dive in!
Month 6-7: Sitting Pretty & Tactile Play
What to Consider: At this stage, your baby might be sitting up without support. They're also starting to explore textures with their little hands.
Toy Tip: Go for soft stacking blocks, stacking cups, stacking rings or cloth balls with various textures. These not only improve tactile senses but also help in mastering the fine art of grabbing and stacking.
Our Top Picks (and they will be relevant even when they are twelve+ months):
Soft stacking blocks
Stacking cups
Stacking rings
Textured cloth balls
Month 7-8: The Crawler & The Cruiser
What to Consider: Is your baby starting to crawl or even trying to stand with some help? Mobility is on the horizon!
Toy Tip: Push or pull toys are your go-to now. These encourage mobility and strengthen those little leg muscles.
Our Top Picks (and they will be relevant even when they are twelve+ months):
Push carts
Activity walkers
Pull-along toys
Month 8-9: Problem Solver
What to Consider: Your baby is becoming quite the problem solver! They love exploring cause-and-effect scenarios.
Toy Tip: Simple puzzle games or toys with buttons that result in a sound or light can be really engaging.
Our Top Picks (and they will be relevant even when they are twelve+ months):
Simple wooden puzzles
Musical activity boards
Light-up keyboards
Month 9-10: Imitation Games
What to Consider: Your baby is watching you and trying to imitate simple actions, be it clapping or making sounds.
Toy Tip: Musical instruments or toys that require interaction can be fun and educational.
Our Top Picks (and they will be relevant even when they are twelve+ months):
Baby drums
Simple xylophones
Interactive storybooks
Month 10-11: Fine Motor Skills & First Words
What to Consider: Your little one might be saying simple words or refining their pincer grasp.
Toy Tip: Look for toys that encourage fine motor skills like sorting shapes or threading large beads.
Our Top Picks (and they will be relevant even when they are twelve+ months):
Shape sorters
Large threading beads
Simple flip books
Month 11-12: Independent Play
What to Consider: Your almost-toddler may start to enjoy moments of independent play.
Toy Tip: Building blocks or simple art supplies like chunky crayons can entertain them while encouraging creativity.
Our Top Picks (and they will be relevant even when they are twelve+ months):
Building blocks
Non-toxic chunky crayons
Simple doodle boards
Beyond Toys:
Just like in the early months, remember that your interaction is irreplaceable. Play peek-a-boo, dance together, or simply snuggle on the couch. Your presence is the most treasured 'toy' your baby can have.
Should You Update the Toy Box Every Month?
While the temptation to continually update toys may be strong, focus on items that encourage skill-building and can be used for several months or even years. Sometimes, the humble cardboard box or the kitchen pot becomes the best toy, thanks to a little thing called imagination!
Final Thoughts:
The first year is a roller coaster of developmental milestones. Toys aren't just for entertainment; they're tools that aid in your little one's growth. But nothing — absolutely nothing — replaces the love, comfort, and security that you provide.
Note: Some of the links you see here are to Amazon.com. For the sake of good order, we are affiliates of Amazon and may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. However, this comes at no extra cost to you. We only share products we genuinely love and believe in. Thanks for your support!
Happy playing!