Your little one will transition from simple rattles to engaging with stacking toys in their first year, but one thing remains constant: the box will always be a favorite! As your baby grows, their curiosity about the world will expand, turning everyday objects into toys.
When Do Babies Start Playing with Toys?
While infants can interact with toys, like shaking a rattle, they truly begin to engage with playthings around the age of 6 months. By this time, they’ll start to explore toys more actively, like knocking over blocks or rolling a ball. By 9 months, they may even have favorites, moving toys between hands or searching for hidden ones.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect as your baby grows and starts playing:
Birth to 2 Months
In these early weeks, your baby doesn’t really need toys. The most stimulating experience for them is you! They’ll enjoy looking at your face and hearing your voice.
2 to 4 Months
At this stage, your baby may begin to reach for toys. Soft rattles or colorful plush toys can capture their attention. They’ll start to explore textures and sounds, but still primarily rely on you for engagement.
4 to 6 Months
As your baby approaches six months, they’ll start to grasp toys and bring them to their mouth. Toys with different textures will intrigue them, and they may enjoy shaking a rattle or playing with soft blocks.
6 to 12 Months
Once they hit six months, it’s time for more interactive play! Your little one will enjoy rolling balls, stacking blocks, and even cuddling with a teddy bear. By nine months, they’ll likely be able to transfer toys from hand to hand and may even search for hidden toys, showcasing their growing cognitive skills.
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In summary, your baby’s playtime will evolve significantly in their first year, transitioning from simple interactions to more complex play. Embrace this journey of exploration and growth, and remember: the best plaything is often you!