My baby genius
Fun and creative toys that inspire imagination and intelligence.
Boikido musical blocks (pack of 12), $21.95
Toddlers enjoy building towers, and this set of blocks with rattles, mirrors, bells and beads shows little ones they have the power to build and knock down. The colourful blocks are great for coordination and dexterity.
Fisher-Price ‘Laugh & Learn Apptivity Storybook Reader’, $29.99
Here’s a funky way to enjoy stories. It looks like a book with an opening cover which holds an iPhone or iPod Touch in a sturdy case. Download the free interactive story apps to start the fun.
HABA at Urban Baby Clutching Toy Rainbow, $22.95
This toy will help littlies hold onto objects, and encourage fine motor skills. The wooden rainbow beads are colourful and feature mirrors.
IM Toys at moosaidthecow.com Slope Roller, $49.95
Your toddler will love building her very own tower. This teaches spatial awareness and boosts imagination and creative play. It also teaches toddlers about cause and effect – what happens to the balls when they roll down the slope
Janod at Urban Baby Wooden House Shape Sorter, $54.95
Shape sorters are great for fine motor skills and problem-solving, as bub works out how to fit each piece into the house. A learning clock encourages reading time; the drawer and carry handle make travelling easier.
Leapfrog ‘Lil’ Phone Pal’, $17.99
Babies often hold objects to their ears as if on the phone. Lil’ Phone Pal introduces early stages of counting, motor skills and phone manners such as “Hello”, “Goodbye” and “Thanks for calling”. Moveable beads help coordination.
LEGO Duplo Toddler Starter Building Set, $29.99
You can introduce construction and creative building games with these large, easy-to-hold bricks. The pieces fit together with the Duplo range and build on your baby’s fine motor skills, encouraging finger and thumb movements.
Mamas and Papas ‘Crumble’ Bear, $32.95
Some bubs like one special toy. Teddies are good to cuddle and comforting if your little one has separation anxiety. If you can, buy two of the same toy and rotate their use, in case one gets lost.
Mesmerised Board Book, $15.95
Black-and-white images with clear, sharp outlines are easy for babies to see from birth. These shapes help your little one to focus and keep her entertained. This book is a great tool for visual development.
Playgro High Chair Spinning Toy, $8
A lifesaver for mums in the kitchen, this toy has a suction base to keep it on the high chair table. The detachable rattle encourages gross motor skills by spinning and swinging while the ribbons and beads are great for tactile development.
Lamaze ‘Tug & Play Activity Knot’, $19.95
Babies love to wave their arms around, even more so when clutching a rattle. This toy is perfect for demonstrating cause and effect as well as building your baby’s coordination and strength.
VTech ‘My First Luggage’, $69.99
This cute carry case with activity panel will help keep your baby entertained and stimulated. Inside the case, five activity pieces teach little ones about shapes, objects and numbers – great for early language skills.
