Baby toys 0–3 months: Discover the world through play

A baby's first three months of life are full of magical moments: the first eye contact, the first conscious smile, the first delicate movements of their hands. Even though newborns can't yet actively grasp or play independently during this time, they are learning every day – with all their senses. This is where age-appropriate baby toys come into play: They support sensory development, promote motor skills, and create wonderful first play experiences.

In this blog post, we delve deep into the world of baby's first toys. We explain what's really useful, what parents should pay attention to, and how you can make a big impact with small things.

Why are toys important in the first three months?

A newborn sleeps a lot in the first few weeks—up to 16 to 18 hours a day. But during waking hours, the baby is highly receptive. They observe, listen, feel, and perceive the world in a completely new, intense way. Toys can specifically support these sensory experiences.

Early intervention without excessive demands

Toys for 0-3 months should be gentle, simple, and low-stimulation. The motto is: less is more. Instead of flashing lights and loud noises, focus on soft colors, natural materials, and quiet sounds. This way, parents can encourage their baby's development without overwhelming them.

The most important senses – and the right toys for them

In the first months of life, three senses in particular develop strongly: sight, hearing, and touch. Appropriate toys can specifically stimulate these:

1. The sense of sight – first contrasts and faces

Babies are born with blurred vision. They only see about 20–30 cm—exactly the distance from mom or dad's face when breastfeeding or carrying them. They are particularly fascinated by high contrasts, such as black and white patterns or clear shapes.

Suitable toys:

• Black and white patterned mobiles

• Contrast cards for placing on the changing table or next to the baby bed

• Fabric books with clear pictures

2. The sense of hearing – gentle sounds and familiar voices

Babies hear sounds even in the womb. After birth, they love gentle sounds, like the hum of a music box or the soft rustling of fabric. Their parents' voices are also a very special "toy."

Suitable toys:

• Music boxes with a calm melody

• Rattle with a subtle sound (made of fabric or wood)

• Crackling elements in soft toys

3. The sense of touch – feel, grasp, discover

The skin is one of the first fully developed sensory organs. Newborns therefore explore their environment primarily through touch. They feel soft fabrics, warm hands, and first graspable objects.

Suitable toys:

• Security blankets

• Teething rings (also soothing before teething)

• Grasping toys made of wood or fabric

Less is more: quality over quantity

An overstuffed toy shelf is unnecessary in the first few months. It's much more important to use the right toys purposefully and consciously. High-quality, non-toxic materials are essential – because many of them end up in the baby's mouth sooner or later.

Tips for buying:

• Look for natural materials such as wood, organic cotton or untreated fabrics

• Check the toy for loose parts or small parts that could be swallowed

• Rely on tested quality (e.g. TÜV, CE mark, GOTS certificate for fabrics)

Ideas for first playing together

In addition to store-bought toys, there are many everyday things that fascinate babies. Here are some creative suggestions for playtime with your 0-3 month-old baby:

1. Mirror games

Babies love faces—especially their own! A shatterproof baby mirror invites wonder and smiles.

2. Finger games and songs

The parent's voice has a calming and stimulating effect. Little rhymes, finger games, and songs promote language development and are fun.

3. Carrying and gentle rocking

Carrying your baby in an ergonomic baby carrier – like the one from sandiia – is like a game for babies in the first few months: closeness, movement and security all in one.

4. Let the scarves dance

A light scarf or silk scarf can amaze: swirling in the air, tickling your face or gliding through your fingers.

5. Baby yoga or gentle baby massage

Tender touch promotes bonding and helps with restlessness or stomach aches. It strengthens body awareness and familiarizes babies with their bodies in a loving way.

Toys that grow with your child

Some toys can be used wonderfully beyond the first three months. These include:

• Play arches with removable pendants

• Cuddly toys with integrated music box

• Fabric books with elements to discover

Safety first

Especially with very young babies, safety is paramount. Keep this in mind when playing:

🔒 Check toys regularly for damage or wear
🔒 Always let children play under supervision
🔒 Do not leave anything in the baby's bed that could cover the face or cause breathing difficulties

Our conclusion: Playtime is bonding time

Toys in the first three months are much more than just a fun pastime—they're a valuable tool for introducing your baby to the world, stimulating their senses, and enjoying time together. Whether simple grasping toys, lovingly selected cuddly toys, or shared games: the important thing is that your baby feels safe, secure, and loved.

And the best toy? That's you. Your voice, your face, your hands. These are what fascinate your baby most in the first few weeks – and, incidentally, lay the foundation for a strong parent-child bond.