INFANT & BABY TOYS

Choose baby toys for the way your child likes to play: reaching, grasping, shaking, looking at pictures or exploring textures. Browse rattles, soft activity books, teethers, plush and activity toys at baby enRoute, then check the age label and instructions on the individual item. A place in this collection is not a newborn-use recommendation.

Match the toy to the activity

• Grasp and shake: compare the size, grip and sound of rattles. Look for a shape your child can hold without choosing small detachable pieces.
• Look and explore: soft books, textured toys and play-gym activities offer different ways to interact together. Choose features your child enjoys rather than expecting a particular developmental result.
• Cuddle or chew: plush companions and teethers have different intended uses. Check materials and care on the exact product rather than assuming all baby toys are silicone, wooden or suitable for mouthing.

Can I use a rattle or plush toy as a teether?

Only if the manufacturer identifies that item for teething. Check for wear, loose seams and detachable parts before play. Pacifiers, feeding items and clips shown alongside toys have their own instructions and are not interchangeable playthings.

Can every soft toy go in the washing machine?

No. Check whether the care label permits machine washing, surface cleaning or another method, and whether sound units or other components must be removed. Choose a cleaning routine you can follow rather than assuming a soft outer fabric makes the whole toy washable.

Follow age warnings even when a toy looks simple, and keep small parts intended for older children away from babies.

Buying a gift or unsure about a label? Read how to read a toy age label before buying, then match the item to the child and the way it will be used.