Toys for the First Three Years

FAMILY · GLOBAL

Toys for the First Three Years

What suits each stage, safety marking, how many, and what to skip

Babies and toddlers develop quickly, and toys that suit one stage are ignored a few months later, which is why buying ahead rarely works.

The first six months

High contrast images, rattles, soft toys with different textures, a play gym and a mirror. The point is looking, reaching and grasping rather than anything the toy does.

Supervised tummy time on a mat matters more than any toy.

Six to twelve months

Stacking cups, simple posting toys, board books, and anything that can be banged together. Everything goes in the mouth at this stage, so wipe-clean and large enough not to choke on.

One to two years

Shape sorters, simple puzzles, push-along toys, blocks, crayons and a ride-on. Movement and cause-and-effect are what hold attention.

Two to three years

Pretend play — a toy kitchen, dolls, animals, a doctor's set — plus construction toys, sand and water, and messy play. Open-ended toys can stay useful through several stages of childhood.

Safety

Check for a CE or UKCA mark and the manufacturer's details. The under-three warning is about small parts rather than ability. Check button batteries sit behind a screwed compartment, and keep magnets away from small children.

Books

Board books from the first months, sharing them daily. Reading to a child is the single best-evidenced thing to do for language, and repetition of the same few books is how it works rather than a large library.

Libraries lend for nothing and run free sessions for babies and toddlers.

Screens

Guidance for under-twos is to avoid screens other than video calls, and to keep it limited afterwards. Playing alongside a child matters more than what they are playing with.

Gifts from others

Grandparents and friends frequently ask what to buy, and a suggestion saves everyone. Books, experiences, memberships and craft materials are welcome in houses already full of plastic.

Include a gift receipt, since duplicates are common.

Safety at home

Anchor furniture to the wall, secure blind cords and keep button batteries and small magnets well out of reach.

Second-hand

Baby and toddler toys are barely used before they are outgrown, and local groups and charity shops are full of them. Check for damage, missing parts and any recall before giving something to a small child.

Wash soft items and check eyes and noses are firmly attached.

Store toys somewhere a child can see them, since they play with what is visible.

How many

Fewer available at once, rotated, produces deeper play than a full room. Store the rest out of sight.

Second-hand toys are excellent value; check for damage and recalls.

WHERE TO BUY

Ready to shop Tinney's Toys? Use the link below to visit the official store.

→ Shop Tinney's Toys — official site

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