Selecting the best infant toys for grandparents can be a delightful and rewarding experience. As grandparents, you have the unique opportunity to create lasting memories and foster meaningful connections with your grandchild through thoughtful toy choices.
When it comes to infant toys, the key factors to consider are educational value, safety, engagement, intergenerational appeal, and adaptability. Look for toys that promote cognitive and motor skill development, with features like textured surfaces, movable parts, and multiple colors. Ensure that the toys are age-appropriate, non-toxic, and durable, with no small parts that can be swallowed or easily detached. Choose toys that stimulate multiple senses, providing a rich and interactive play experience for both the infant and the grandparents.
Opt for timeless toys that can be enjoyed by both the infant and the grandparents, creating shared moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Consider toys that can be used in various ways, growing with the infant's skills and interests, providing long-term value and ensuring that the investment in the toy is well-spent.
Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Musical Toy: Engaging Musical Discovery Toy
Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes, 3M+ -- $8.99(Amazon)
Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Musical Toy, Ages 3 Months + Birthday Gift -- $13.99(eBay - lrsseller)
Take Along Tunes Musical Toy, Ages 3 months + -- $8.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Musical Toy is an excellent choice for parents and caregivers looking to introduce their infants to the world of music. It plays a variety of classical melodies, which are not only enjoyable but also beneficial for auditory development. The toy is designed with small hands in mind, making it easy for babies to hold and explore. Additionally, it features an off/low/high volume switch, allowing you to control the sound level to ensure it's safe for your baby's hearing.
Who It's For
This musical toy is perfect for infants aged 3 months and up who are beginning to explore the world around them. It's especially suited for parents who value early music education and want to foster an appreciation for classical music in their children. The volume control feature also makes it a great choice for those concerned about protecting their infant's hearing.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Plays a variety of classical melodies for auditory development | ❌ Limited variety of melodies compared to other toys |
| ✅ Easy-to-grasp caterpillar handle designed for small hands | ❌ Requires batteries for operation |
| ✅ Volume control (Off/Low/High) for hearing protection | ❌ May not hold the attention of older toddlers as they grow |
Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick 'n Play Piano Gym: Versatile Developmental Play Gym
Baby Playmat Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym & Maracas with Smart Stages Le... -- $49.1(Amazon)
Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym in Blue -- $54.99(Babylist)
Fisher-Price - Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym -- $24(eBay)
Gift Set Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym & Maracas, Playmat & Musical Toy w... -- $59.99(Amazon)
Fisher Price Deluxe Kick Play Piano Gym, Girl -- $34.99(Little Luxury ny)
Why We Picked It
The Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick 'n Play Piano Gym is an engaging, multi-functional toy designed to grow with your baby through various stages of development. It combines physical activity with educational content, thanks to its Smart Stages technology, which adjusts the learning content as your baby grows. This toy not only promotes motor skills development through kicking and reaching but also stimulates auditory and visual senses with its music, lights, and colorful design. The inclusion of detachable toys and maracas adds variety to playtime, making it a versatile choice for parents looking for a toy that entertains and educates.
Who It's For
This toy is perfect for parents of newborns and toddlers who are looking for a safe, stimulating play area that encourages physical activity, motor skills development, and sensory stimulation. It's also ideal for those seeking a toy that can adapt to their child's growing abilities and interests, providing educational content tailored to different developmental stages.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Adaptable learning content with Smart Stages technology | ❌ Must ensure it's placed on a flat surface to prevent tipping |
| ✅ Encourages physical activity and motor skills development | ❌ Requires 3 AA batteries (included) |
| ✅ Includes a variety of detachable toys and maracas for extended play | ❌ Machine-washable mat, but other parts may need spot cleaning |
Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle & Sensory Teether Toy: Best Sensory Teether and Rattle for Infants
Winkel Elephant Rattle & Sensory Teether -- $13.7(Amazon)
Year of The Tiger Winkel Rattle and Sensory Teether Toy Multicolor -- $18(Amazon)
Manhattan Toy Winkel -- $9.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle & Sensory Teether Toy is an excellent choice for parents looking to provide their infants with a multi-functional toy that engages their senses and offers relief during teething. Its unique design, combining a rattle and teether in one, makes it a versatile and essential item for any baby's development and comfort.
Who It's For
This toy is best suited for newborns and babies up to 4 years old who are experiencing teething discomfort or are in need of sensory stimulation. The lightweight and colorful design is easy for little hands to hold and manipulate, making it ideal for engaging gross motor skills and auditory exploration.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Doubles as a teether and rattle, offering both sensory play and gum relief | ❌ Regular inspection is necessary to check for wear and tear to prevent choking hazards |
| ✅ Lightweight and easy for little hands to grasp and shake | ❌ Hand wash only; cannot be submerged in water or steam cleaned |
| ✅ Can be refrigerated for additional soothing comfort for sore gums | ❌ Some parents may find it a bit pricey compared to other teethers |
Lamaze Freddie The Firefly: Best Sensory Toy for Infants
Cloth Book, Peek-A-Boo Forest and Play and Grow, Freddie the Firefly -- $30.74(Amazon)
Freddie the Firefly Clip On Car Seat and Stroller Toy - Soft Baby Hangin... -- $17.75(Amazon)
Lamaze Freddie the Firefly -- $17.79(Target)
Lamaze Freddie The Firefly Buggy Toy 0mths+ -- $26.41(Brit Super Store)
Why We Picked It
Lamaze Freddie The Firefly is an engaging and multi-sensory toy designed to stimulate a baby's development through a variety of textures, sounds, and high-contrast colors. Its thoughtful design encourages exploration and sensory play, making it an excellent choice for parents looking to support their baby's early growth.
Who It's For
This toy is best suited for infants from 0 months and up who are beginning to explore the world around them. It's ideal for parents who want to provide their child with a toy that promotes sensory development and can be easily attached to car seats, strollers, or used during tummy time.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Variety of textures and sounds to stimulate sensory development | ❌ Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain hygiene |
| ✅ High-contrast colors to captivate and hold baby's attention | ❌ May not be as engaging for older toddlers who have outgrown early sensory toys |
| ✅ Easily clips onto car seats and strollers for on-the-go entertainment | ❌ Not eligible for international shipping, limiting availability for some customers |
Sassy Developmental Bumpy Ball: Developmental Sensory and Motor Skills Enhancer
Developmental Bumpy Ball | Easy to Grasp Bumps Help Develop Motor Skills... -- $14.33(Amazon)
Sassy Developmental Bumpy Badger -- $9.5(Walmart)
Sassy Bumpy Ball, 6-24 Months - 1 count -- $14.33(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Sassy Developmental Bumpy Ball is an exceptional toy designed to support infants' sensory and motor skill development. Its variety of textures and materials stimulate tactile sensitivity, while the chunky bumps encourage essential motor skills like reaching, grasping, and transferring from one hand to another. The gentle rattle sounds it produces are not just entertaining; they also play a crucial role in creating neural connections in babies' brains, which is vital for their cognitive development from birth through 3 years. This toy has been safely tested to infant standards, ensuring it's a secure choice for your little one.
Who It's For
This toy is perfect for infants aged 6 months and up who are in the stages of developing their tactile sensitivity and motor skills. It's especially beneficial for parents who want to engage their babies in activities that support early developmental milestones, including visual and auditory sensory development. However, it's important for parents to ensure that all parts remain securely attached to prevent any choking hazards.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Multiple textures and materials engage baby's developing tactile sensitivity. | ❌ Parts need to be checked regularly to ensure they are securely attached to prevent choking. |
| ✅ Chunky sized bumps encourage essential motor skills development. | ❌ Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning. |
| ✅ Gentle rattle sounds support cognitive development by creating neural connections. | ❌ Color and pattern variety may vary, which might not meet everyone's preference. |
Skip Hop Explore and More Roll-Around Rattle: Best Developmental Rattle for Infants
Skip Hop Explore & More Roll Around Fox Rattle -- $10.29(Toy Street)
Baby Rattle Toy, Explore and More Roll Around Rattle, Hedgehog -- $8.99(Amazon)
Skip Hop Explore and More Roll Around Baby Rattle Toy, Hedgehog -- $8.99(Amazon)
Baby Crawl Toy 3-Stage Developmental Learning Crawling Infant Toy, Explo... -- $26.99(Amazon)
Skip Hop Explore & More Roll Around - Hedgehog -- $9(Skip Hop)
Baby Stacking & Nesting Toy, Explore & More Fox Stacking Toy -- $15.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Skip Hop Explore and More Roll-Around Rattle is a thoughtfully designed toy that not only serves as a playful rattle but also promotes motor skills development. Its roll-around design encourages babies to crawl after it, and the easy-to-grasp openings help in developing dexterity. The combination of teething surfaces, colorful beads, and a flexible body makes it a multi-sensory toy that aids in the overall developmental play.
Who It's For
This rattle is perfect for infants aged 3 months and up who are beginning to explore the world around them with their hands and mouth. It's especially suited for little ones who are starting to develop their fine motor skills and need a safe and engaging toy to help them along. Parents looking for a BPA-free, PVC-free, and Phthalate-free toy will appreciate the safety aspects of this rattle.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Encourages crawling and motor skills | ❌ Must be monitored to prevent over-insertion in mouth |
| ✅ Easy to grab and hold for little hands | ❌ May not be as entertaining for older babies |
| ✅ Safe and engaging with teething surfaces | ❌ Limited play options compared to electronic toys |
Fisher-Price Soothe & Glow Seahorse: Best Bedtime Musical Companion
Fisher Price - Soothe & Glow, Seahorse Pink -- $13.59(Target)
Musical Baby Toy, Soothe & Glow Seahorse, Plush Sound Machine with Light... -- $16.99(Amazon)
Fisher-Price Soothe & Glow Seahorse Blue -- $16.99(Amazon)
Fisher-Price Soothe & Glow Seahorse, Blue -- $13.1(eBay - crn1519)
Ocean Wonders Soothe & Glow Seahorse, Pink -- $17.34(Amazon)
Fisher-Price Soothe & Glow Seahorse - DGH85 -- $21.04(Walmart - YOUR VOICE YOUR CHOICE INC)
Why We Picked It
The Fisher-Price Soothe & Glow Seahorse is selected for its ability to provide a comforting and sensory experience for infants. Its soft, cuddly form factor, combined with the soothing music and gentle glow, make it an ideal sleep companion for babies. The inclusion of volume control and the option to play continuous music for 5 minutes, featuring 8 lullaby and classical tunes along with ocean sounds, enhances its appeal as a sleep soother.
Who It's For
This plush toy is best suited for newborns and up who require a calming presence to help them drift off to sleep. Parents looking for a safe, soft, and musical toy to soothe their baby during bedtime or naptime will find the Soothe & Glow Seahorse to be an excellent choice. It's also a great option for those who prefer a machine-washable toy for easy cleaning.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Soft, cuddly, and comforting design | ❌ Regular battery compartment checks needed for safety |
| ✅ Plays soothing music with volume control | ❌ Limited to 5 minutes of continuous play |
| ✅ Machine-washable with removable electronics | ❌ May require frequent battery replacements depending on usage |
Melissa & Doug Flip Fish Baby Toy: Best Sensory Development Toy for Infants
Melissa & Doug Flip Fish Soft Baby Toy -- $14.99(Amazon)
Flip Fish Soft Baby Toy - Tummy Time Sensory Toy with Taggies for Infants -- $14.99(Amazon)
Melissa & Doug Flip Fish 9195 -- $16.99(Yame)
Why We Picked It
The Melissa & Doug Flip Fish Baby Toy is an excellent choice for parents and caregivers looking to stimulate their baby's development. It's designed to enhance fine motor skills and sensory exploration through its variety of textures, colors, and interactive features like squeakers and hidden pictures. This toy supports early childhood development in physical, cognitive, and social areas, making it a valuable addition to any baby's playtime.
Who It's For
This toy is best suited for infants and toddlers who are in the stage of exploring their senses and developing their fine motor skills. It's ideal for tummy time and interactive play, making it a great choice for parents who want to engage their baby in activities that promote learning and growth. However, it may not be as suitable for older children who have moved beyond sensory exploration toys.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Squeaker tail encourages grasp and finger strength | ❌ Fabric toys require regular washing to maintain hygiene |
| ✅ Peek under the scales to find hidden pictures | ❌ May not be as engaging for older children |
| ✅ Includes shatterproof mirror to engage baby's interest in faces and light | ❌ Limited play options for advanced developmental stages |
VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker: Best Interactive Growth Companion Toy
Vtech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker Deluxe - Multi Color -- $34.97(Walmart)
Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker (Frustration Free Packaging) , Orange -- $39.99(Amazon)
Vtech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker (Frustration Free Packaging) Blue -- $39.99(Amazon)
Sit-To-Stand Ultimate Alphabet Train (Frustration Free Packaging), Red -- $49.99(Amazon)
Vtech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker (Frustration Free Packaging) -- $22.8(eBay)
Why We Picked It
The VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker is an excellent choice for parents looking to invest in a versatile and educational toy that adapts to their child's growth stages. It offers a multitude of activities that not only entertain but also contribute to the development of motor skills and cognitive abilities. Its design encourages babies to transition from sitting to walking, making it a valuable tool for developmental milestones.
Who It's For
This walker is ideal for babies and toddlers aged 9 months to 3 years who are learning to walk and need engaging activities to enhance their motor skills and sensory development. It's also great for parents who want a toy that combines fun with educational value. However, it's important to note that close supervision is necessary to ensure the child's safety during use.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Removable play panel for versatile use | ❌ Requires constant supervision to prevent falls |
| ✅ Over 70 sing-along songs and fun phrases for educational entertainment | ❌ Batteries included are for demo purposes and need replacement for regular use |
| ✅ Adjustable for different developmental stages from sitting to walking | ❌ May not be as stable on uneven surfaces |
LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book: Best Bilingual Educational Toy
LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book -- $14.97(Amazon)
Leapfrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book -- $19.99(eBay - dalesbigdeals)
Learning Friends 100 Words Book, Green -- $14.97(Amazon)
LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book Frustration Free Packaging / Le... -- $25(Techmania54)
Why We Picked It
The LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book is an interactive educational tool that introduces children to a wide range of vocabulary across various categories. It's designed to enhance language skills through a bilingual experience, offering both English and Spanish options. This makes it an excellent resource for early language development and bilingual education.
Who It's For
This book is ideal for toddlers and young children who are beginning to learn words and expand their vocabulary. It's especially beneficial for those in bilingual households or for parents who wish to introduce a second language early on. The interactive nature of the book makes it engaging for kids, encouraging them to explore and learn at their own pace.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Teaches over 100 age-appropriate words across 12 categories | ❌ Sound level may need to be monitored to ensure it's appropriate for baby's ears |
| ✅ Bilingual audio in English and Spanish enhances language learning | ❌ Requires batteries, which may need frequent replacement with regular use |
| ✅ Interactive touch features with words, songs, and fun facts | ❌ May not be as durable as some other educational toys |
Thanks for checking out the best infant toys for grandparents! If you have any more questions or need further recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy shopping!