At the start of this stage, babies can do very little
for themselves apart from tracking (follow moving
objects from side to side). When they turn 3 months
old, infants make an important discovery - parts of
them can move like their tiny hands and feet. They
begin to put objects into their mouths. It is important
to be careful in toy selection. Avoid toys with sharp
edges or with loose, small parts and anything else
you consider a hazard. Here are some suggestions of
toys suitable at this stage:
Mobile is an excellent
toy for babies from one month old onwards, especially
the black and white models. Install it 12-15 inches
above the crib. Babies at first month respond positively
to black and white than colorful shapes. This changes
when their vision for colors develop some months from
now. Most mobiles double up as soothers and stimulators.
Music
can be introduced via music box, cds, radio and
mobiles with attached with music boxes. They are
born with a sense of rhythm developed while in the
utero from the heartbeats of their mothers. As such
they have a natural affinity to music. Studies indicate
that lullabies are very much appreciated at this
age and up. Harness this natural tendency by bringing
music to your baby.
Mobile is an excellent toy for babies from one month
old onwards, especially the black and white models.
Install it 12-15 inches above the crib. Babies at
first month respond positively to black and white
than colorful shapes. This changes when their vision
for colors develop some months from now. Most mobiles
double up as soothers and stimulators.
Soft toys with animal or human faces are
another favorite with them. Babies tend to confuse
these toys with living, breathing companions especially
those with wide eyes. Choose those that are pleasant
looking and soft to the touch and watch your baby
gurgle with excitement.
Books made from
cloth and plastic etc enable babies 3 months up to
explore them using all their five senses. Such textures
allow them to look, feel and gnaw on them. It's a
good way to introduce them to reading as well.
Rattles and teething rings,
particularly the smaller ones, are suitable for babies
to hold as they learn to grasp objects. Ensure they
don't hurt themselves when shaking them too close
to their faces. Make sure the plastic versions are
shatterproof.
Safety mirror is
a good way to engage your baby longer in her crib.
Attach the variety made from unbreakable polished
metal to the crib. Babies love faces and their own
face will fascinate them even more
The final word
Familiar toys
just like the familiar face of mum is important in
the first weeks of life as the baby is learning to
focus her eyes and relate what she sees to what she
touches.
Select toys
according to baby's age by referring to the manufacturer's
guidelines attached. Opt for stimulating toys that
will engage 2 or more of baby's senses.
Read washing instructions
The need to wash toys regularly due to spit ups and
drools is a priority.
Recycle toys
to avoid overspending and bored babies; toys are expensive
accessories and overexposure can cause boredom.
Most importantly toys don't replace YOU. You are still
the most important feature in your baby's world for
some time to come.
