The golden rule: safety always comes first. Babies love to explore the world with their mouths, so any toy you choose must be completely safe to chew, hold, and cuddle. Look for toys that:
- They are non-toxic and BPA-free
- Don’t have small detachable parts
- Are free from sharp edges
- Meet certified safety standards
Even when you buy toys from trusted sources, such as My Gigi’s Place, always supervise play, especially with newborns and infants.
2. Choose Age-Appropriate Toys
Toys should match your baby’s developmental stage. Always check the manufacturer’s age recommendation; it’s there for safety and engagement reasons.
- For newborns (0–3 months), soft crochet toys, rattles, and plushies are perfect.
- For 3–6 months: toys that crinkle, squeak, or have mirrors stimulate the senses.
- For 6–12 months: stacking toys, baby-safe musical instruments, and shape sorters help develop fine motor skills.
- For toddlers (1+ years): Activity cubes, puzzles, and push-pull toys promote movement and problem-solving.
Choosing age-appropriate toys ensures your baby is both safe and stimulated.
3. Pay Attention to Materials & Build
Let’s be honest, babies put everything in their mouths. That’s why material and construction matter.
Opt for toys made of:
- Natural wood – like our wooden car toys or spinning latte, they’re sturdy, safe, and chemical-free.
- Crochet cotton yarn – soft and gentle on delicate skin, with engaging textures.
- High-quality BPA-free plastic – easy to clean and safe for bath time or messy play.
Avoid toys with flimsy construction or glued-on parts. Durable design = longer playtime and fewer hazards.
4. Look for Educational Value
The best baby toys double as learning tools. Educational toys encourage:
- Problem-solving (think shape sorters and puzzles)
- Language development (toys with sounds or words)
- Cause and effect understanding (press a button, hear a sound!)
At My Gigi’s Place, we focus on multi-functional toys that help babies learn while they play. Whether it’s recognizing colors, understanding motion, or mimicking sounds, learning should always be part of the fun.
5. Engage the Senses
Babies experience the world through their senses. Choose toys that stimulate:
- Sight – bright colors and patterns
- Touch – varied textures like crochet, rubber, and wood
- Sound – gentle rattles, bells, or music
- Taste (safely!) – teething toys made of food-grade materials
For example, our crochet toys offer tactile textures that soothe and stimulate, while wooden toys are perfect for both touch and safe mouthing
6. Think Long-Term Value
Let’s face it, babies outgrow things fast. So, how do you get more value from the toys you buy?
Choose toys that grow with your baby:
- A beach munchkin bucket can start as a simple fill-and-dump toy, then become a tool for imaginative play.
- Stacking toys can evolve from sensory objects to building challenges.
- Simple puzzles go from parent-led play to independent problem-solving.
Look for versatile toys that offer new ways to play as your baby develops.
7. Easy to Clean = Peace of Mind
Babies and messes go hand-in-hand, so always consider how easy a toy is to clean.
- Look for machine-washable plush or crochet toys.
- Choose smooth, wipeable surfaces for plastic and wood toys.
- Avoid toys with hard-to-reach crevices that can trap dirt or moisture.
At My Gigi’s Place, our curated baby toys are designed for real life, meaning they’re both adorable and easy to maintain.
Conclusion: Make Every Toy Count
Buying toys for your baby is one of the most joyful parts of parenting, and also a responsibility. Every toy you choose shapes your baby’s learning experience, development, and even emotional well-being.
When shopping for baby toys:
- Think safety first
- Choose age-appropriate items
- Check materials and construction
- Look for toys that educate
- Engage your baby’s senses
- Buy toys that grow with your child
- Make cleanup a breeze
Whether you’re buying a soft crochet doll, a wooden spinning latte, or a versatile beach bucket, you can shop confidently at My Gigi’s Place, knowing that every toy is designed with love, care, and your baby’s development in mind.