contributed by Shelley (Wilmington, NC)
Babies begin learning from the first moment they see the light of day. Everything they interact with has an effect on who they will become, which is a wonderful opportunity when you’re considering what to put in front of them. Developmental toys carefully chosen by the buying team at Learning Express encourage budding senses and skills in the very first year of life. And the added bonus? They make perfect baby shower and “welcome to the world” gifts!
Here are some of our favorites:
Busy Bee Baby Buzz’r® This is a great item that can turn a fussy baby into a bustling busy bee. Light patterns, a mirror, and twelve classical lullaby melodies pique intellectual interest while the vibrations and chewable teether wings are physically comforting.
Winkel
Colorful loops made from soft, pliable plastic are easy to grasp and hold, plus caregivers can refrigerate it for a soothing teether with a gentle rattle in the middle.
Grabby Elephant Taggie
Our super soft elephant friend is so easy to grab and hold and hard to let go of! Taggie’s ribbons add texture, and the pink mouse in the elephant’s belly can be moved in and out for fine motor skills development.
Sophie Giraffe Teether
An easy to hold and chew teether giraffe babies love to gum and squeak! Made from 100% natural rubber and food paint. Sophie is safe and perfect for soothing baby’s sore gums. Made in France.
Twilight Turtle (or Twilight Ladybug)
The perfect night light! Twilight Turtle projects a complete starry night sky onto the walls and ceiling of any room. Choose from three soothing color options – blue, green, and amber – to create magical, tranquil environments that are ideal for helping children of all ages ease into a restful sleep. Lights turn off automatically after 45 minutes.
Sleep Sheep on the Go
Sleep Sheep produces four soothing sounds from mother’s calming heartbeat to the gentle sounds of nature. Relax as the soothing sounds of ocean waves, spring showers, and harmonious whale songs create a tranquil environment ideal for helping children of all ages fall asleep. Attachable to crib or carrier.
Lock and Rock Musical Shakers
Played separately or linked together, these four brightly colored musical shakers will stimulate toddlers with exciting sounds! Large handles are easy to grab and shake. Turn up the music and rock on!
Custom-Painted and Personalized Ceramic Piggy Bank
Start baby’s college fund now with a custom-painted and personalized ceramic piggy bank. The Learning Express artists will decorate and personalize your piggy bank for FREE!
Personalized Jumbo Toy Bucket
Decorated and personalized for free at Learning Express, our jumbo toy bucket can multi-task! Take it to the beach, or store toys in baby’s playroom. This is also a great gift for new grandparents—just let us decorate and add GRAN AND GRAMPS’ TOYS!
Books
Starting baby’s book collection is the gift that keeps on giving!
Some suggested titles:
Pat the Bunny
Runaway Bunny
The Little Engine That Could
Tickle Monster book and mitts
Guess How Much I Love You
So if you’re looking for a perfectly unique baby gift, ask one of the baby toy experts at Learning Express Toys, where we also wrap your gift for free!