How to Choose the Right Toys for Every Stage of Childhood

Toys play a vital role in a child’s life—not only as a source of joy, but also as a powerful tool for learning, development, and emotional growth. Thoughtfully selected toys foster fine motor skills, emotional intelligence, and healthy interaction with the surrounding world. Through play, children explore reality, grasp cause-and-effect relationships, unlock their creative potential, and develop at their own natural pace.

Moreover, toys are instrumental in a child’s psychosocial development. Playing with dolls, for instance, helps children develop empathy, while building blocks and construction sets enhance logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Shared playtime with parents strengthens emotional bonds and supports a child's harmonious development.

This leads us to an important question: how can we choose age-appropriate toys that are not only safe and engaging, but also developmentally beneficial?

In this blog, we’ll explore the key principles of selecting best toys for different age stages, helping parents make well-informed choices.

0 to 6 Months – First Sensory Experiences

During this stage, a baby’s focus is primarily on tactile sensations and sound perception. They begin exploring their body, listening to ambient sounds, and tracking movement. The world is discovered through hands, mouth, and eyes. Thus, toys must be safe, soft, easy to grasp, and offer rich sensory stimulation.

Ideal toys for this age:

Stroller toys – Bright and mobile, often with gentle rattles or chimes, these toys capture the baby’s attention and support visual tracking, focus, and coordination.

Soft toys – During the early months, lightweight toys made from soft materials are best. Free from hard parts, they help develop tactile sensitivity by encouraging babies to explore different textures and become aware of their own body.

Soft dolls – These often become a baby’s first “friend,” offering comfort, emotional security, and a sense of familiarity. A child’s attachment to a favorite doll brings calm and reassurance.

At this early stage, safety, sensory variety, and meaningful interaction with caregivers are key, as these first impressions lay the foundation for future development.

6 Months to 1 Year – A Time of Active Discovery

As babies become more aware of the world around them, they gain better control over their hands and start responding actively to movement and stimuli. Toys during this period should be multifunctional, stimulating various senses while remaining safe and engaging.

Recommended toys:

Developmental play mats – Multi-textured mats with mirrors and detachable elements promote movement coordination and cognitive development through interactive play.

Puzzle mats for foot massage – These textured mats help strengthen developing feet while transforming playtime into a beneficial and enjoyable experience.

Soft animal toys – Plush animals provide comfort and a sense of security. Often, they become a child’s first true companion—one to play with, snuggle, and sleep beside.

1 to 2 Years – Independence and Movement

At this stage, children begin walking, handling objects more confidently, and exploring their surroundings with increased curiosity. Toys should encourage logical thinking, independence, and imaginative play.

Top picks from Labebe:

Wooden toys – Timeless and eco-friendly, wooden toys are cherished by both children and parents. Their natural materials, aesthetic appeal, and durability make them an ideal choice for early development.

Wooden toys often serve as a child’s introduction to constructive play. As they stack, rearrange, and build with wooden blocks, children refine their fine motor skills, spatial thinking, and creativity. This is a fun and intuitive way to grasp basic concepts of logic and problem-solving.

Beyond function, wooden toys also create a warm and natural play environment, contributing to emotional well-being. Their texture and weight offer a rich sensory experience that plastic toys often lack.

In essence, wooden toys are more than mere entertainment—they represent a thoughtful investment in lasting quality and holistic development.

2 to 3 Years – Imaginative Play and Self-Expression

Children at this age begin engaging in pretend play, exploring roles, and expressing emotions through storytelling and imagination. They recreate familiar situations, experiment with characters, and communicate their feelings and interests.

Toys that inspire creativity:

Soft dolls – Children delight in caring for their dolls—bathing, feeding, and tucking them in—mirroring the adult world. Such play fosters empathy and becomes an essential part of daily life.

Themed wooden toys – Items like toy kitchens, trains, or miniature houses encourage imaginative scenarios while supporting intellectual and emotional growth.

3 to 5 Years – Independent Thinking and Social Skills

During this period, children begin interacting more actively with peers—learning to share, collaborate, and negotiate. Toys should support both individual and group play while fostering independent thinking.

Labebe recommends:

Soft building sets – Blocks and soft construction kits not only enhance logical thinking and patience, but also strengthen fine motor skills. A set of soft bricks, for instance, is ideal for safe play and sensory stimulation.

Core Principles for Choosing Toys

Regardless of your child’s age, there are a few key factors to keep in mind when selecting toys:

Safety – Avoid small, sharp, or detachable parts. Choose toys made from non-toxic, BPA-free materials with safe dyes and finishes.

Sustainability – Wooden toys and fabric dolls are excellent choices due to their natural, non-toxic qualities that support a child’s health and the environment.

Developmental value – A quality toy should spark imagination, refine motor skills, and support problem-solving abilities.

You can conveniently find the perfect toys from the comfort of your home - Labebe Boutique offers a wide selection of high-quality, certified European-brand toys. From soft dolls and wooden toys to stroller toys, activity mats, and more, we provide everything your child needs to grow, learn, and thrive through joyful play.