Donna Eshelman joins us from Stellar Catipillar to expand on her article about stocking stuffers for baby.
This holiday season, choose simple toys that invite motor skill and speech development. Suggestions below include baby’s first doll, a lightweight ball, a new and improved version of the sippy cup, and a favorite teether. Sometimes the most simple objects require the most use of baby’s body, which facilitates the development of motor skills. That is the real DIY! Skip the expensive and space-consuming jumper and exersaucers and choose to “keep it simple and developmental.”
1. Chick-ita Shaker 3.99
This is the perfect first rattle for baby. The simple stick handle on this maraca rattle is perfect for their tiny hands to hold. They can hear the swoosh of the grains of sand inside as they develop the coordination of their hand and arm for the motor skills of grasping and reaching.
2. Classic Dumbell Rattle (made of pewter or sterling silver). Prices vary depending on material with pewter being much less expensive. The simple stick handle makes it easy to hold and the added weight of the pewter or silver develops baby’s strength. This classic endures and makes a lovely family heirloom.
3. The O’Ball, under $10 Baby’s first ball is lightweight and has holes with small lines to hold onto. Perfect for practicing her skill of dropping objects off of her high chair and learning to throw a ball. Available in a variety of colors and sizes.
4. Sophie the Giraffe Natural Rubber Teether, about $20. This classic baby teether from France is beloved by many babies. The long neck is easy for baby to hold onto and Sophie makes a sweet squeaky sound when squeezed. The rubber is non-toxic and safe for teething. The action of chewing on toys develops the use of the jaw as well as soothes her gums, which is important for speech development.
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5. Vuilli Chan Pie Gnon Natural Rubber Teether from $10-20. From the makers of Sophie the Giraffe, comes a squeaking alien shaped out of the same non-toxic rubber safe for teething. This one is perfect for babies around 9-12 months old. When squeezed she makes a loud squeaking sound. The shape of this toy requires the use of the fingers to squeeze and is great for fine motor skill development. Baby discovers that she can squeak slowly or quickly based on how she squeezes the toy.
There are more over on Page 2!
I love the ball with the holes for the baby to hold onto!