Your Baby Today

Products and Pointers

BABY HOLIDAY TOY GUIDE

By Dana Sullivan

Holidays are approaching quickly. And while the best gift of all is, of course, your new baby, you probably won't be able to resist wrapping up a few toys to entertain and enthrall her during the next few months.

Here are a six fun toy suggestions -- a combination of classic and new items -- for birth to one year. (Please note the recommended age, which is listed for both safety and developmental appropriateness).

Baby's First Blocks (set of three 4" blocks) from Warm Biscuit
Babies will want to toss, stack and squeeze these unique cloth blocks. They're soft and squishy, and easy for even the youngest babies to get their hands around. Handmade from vintage fabrics. All ages.

Little Tikes Musical Motion Ocean Activity Gym
A captivating "play station" that baby can lie beneath and entertain himself, batting at colorful characters and activating lights and music. When he's old enough to sit and stand, you can rotate the top so your toddler can continue to play. Zero to 36 months.

Hoopla Take and Shake Snake
Just the ticket for holiday travel. The silly snake, with different textures and activities at each of its five sections, will keep baby amused whether you're traveling by plane, train or automobile. It's also a great attachment for a crib or stroller. Six to 24 months.

Fisher-Price Pull-Up Ball Blast
If your baby is preoccupied with pulling herself to a standing position, she'll be thrilled with this toy, especially since once she's up, she can safely cruise around it, holding on to the steering wheel-like top. Seated or standing, she can roll balls down the various chutes, activating different lights and music. (Assembly required; it takes about 10 minutes.) Nine months and up.

Lamaze Nesting Present by Learning Curve
Two presents in one. Your infant will delight in stacking the four drum-shaped pieces and then toppling them. Each piece has a different design, plus crinkling inserts and bells that intrigue. Twelve months and up.

Radio Flyer Walker Wagon
Whether your baby is cruising or walking with confidence, he'll love pushing this classic red wagon around. The tubular bar across the back makes it easy for early walkers to grab hold of and push. Twelve months and up.

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About The Author

Nevada-based freelance writer Dana Sullivan is a frequent contributor to Your Baby Today and also writes for Fit Pregnancy and Parenting. She's mom to Liam, 4, and Julia, 2.