Gifts by Age

Many parents have set up an Amazon Wish List to keep track and “vet” presents for family and friends to choose from. It’s like a registry that can be used all year round!

Our nieces and nephews all have their own list that the parents manage.

What to Consider When Selecting Gifts

Safe (avoid small parts, choke hazard) & durable (built to last especially if they might become hand-me-downs)
Prioritize ‘open-ended’ toys (like blocks, balls, or simple dolls) that can be used in 100 different ways over single-purpose toys that only do one thing (like a singing toy with only one button). Open-ended play is better for building imagination.
Consider the parents’ home environment and sensitivity! I’m always grateful for gifts that don’t require an entire room. If you buy a loud toy, consider one with an off button or a volume control — some parents mind the noise very much!

Age Range	Developmental Stage
0 – 6 months	It is all about vision, sound, and high-contrast exploration. The gifts as much for the parents as they are for the baby.
6 months +	Welcome to the ‘everything goes in the mouth’ phase! Graspable, chewable, and development of skills like pincer grasping. Look for texture, sound, and items they can safely put into their mouths. – Here’s a website I also reference for new toy ideas: Toys for 6 Month Old Babies
1 – 2 years	Find gifts that encourage walking, climbing, and simple problem-solving. Imaginative play is fun too!
2 – 3 years
3 – 4 years