The Best Sensory Toys

Buying Guide

The input we receive through our sensory systems helps us learn about the environment around us. This is why sensory play is so important for developing babies. To encourage your infant or toddler to explore and to help them grow, you’ll want to introduce them to a variety of sensory toys.

“Like most toys for babies, the best ones are safe to chew and easy to wash,” says parenting expert Kate Desmond. “As your child starts to develop, look for toys that provide a challenge — think little puzzles, fun games and building activities. “

Consider toys that are easy for tiny hands to grasp, especially if the toy is for an infant. You’ll also want to make sure all of the surfaces are soft to the touch and that they contain no sharp edges. The Sassy Stretchy String Sensory Toys is an excellent choice, as it features over 10 large bulges that stick out of a soft ball. Each of the bulges are made of a different type of material, so that your baby can explore contrasting textures as they move from grabbing one to another.

Look for sensory toys that appeal to your baby’s sense of sound. You may find some that act as rattles, with little balls inside that make a fun noise when your baby shakes them back and forth. You may also opt for a toy that plays a variety of songs when the baby presses a button. This type of toy is also good for teaching little ones about cause and effect.

“When purchasing for an infant, look for soft touch, bright colors and fun sounds,” says Desmond. “The idea is to indulge the senses. Give your baby different textures to explore, helping them to understand the world around them.”

Stimulating your baby’s eyesight is also important. Toys with bright colors and different patterns are a good choice. The Crayola Musical Doodle Board has 12 light colors that appeal to toddlers. The enclosed gel surface allows babies to practice drawing using their fingers, while preventing the type of mess that comes with fingerpaints.

Search for sensory toys that are lightweight and easy to transport. This way you’ll have a few toys that your child can carry in his car seat or play with in his stroller while you take a walk around the park. The SMALL FISH Fidget Toys Set comes with 22 different compact toys that are travel-friendly.

“Sensory toys are great for on-the-go situations too. Public places can be overwhelming for a child, so having a toy of this type can help them self soothe. Just make sure the sensory toy you choose is portable,” Desmond says.

Older children would do better with sensory toys that help them develop problem-solving skills. The Neliblu Snap and Click Fidget Toys, for example, allows kids to build a house, car or animal by simply pressing the different pieces together. In addition to connecting on the top and bottom, the pieces also fit together on the sides. That means children have the opportunity to explore a bunch of different combinations. The pieces are also easy to snap together and a cinch to pull apart, so your child won’t get frustrated during play.

“The best sensory toys combine action and brain power — keeping the mind and hands busy,” says Desmong. “These handheld toys are great for fidgeting babies and kids and can keep attention focused.”

Take into consideration any special needs that your child may have. If he or she has a tendency to fidget, for example, keep your eye out for sensory toys that will keep the child’s hands busy. Perhaps your child needs a challenge. If this is the case, then you’ll want to look for a puzzle toy instead, as this type of sensory toy enhances critical thinking skills.

• When purchasing toys from overseas, you’ll want to look for an ASTM F963 International Toy Standard Certificate to ensure the toys meet important safety protocols.
• If the sensory toys are made of plastic, it’s important that you check to see if the plastic is BPA-free and listed as non-toxic. Babies are going to put everything they pick up in their mouths, and you don’t want to chance any toxins ending up in your child’s system.
• Sensory toys that are made of plastic can be hand washed with a little dish soap and water. Fabric toys may or may not be machine washable, so it’s important that you check the product care label. You may also be able to spot clean the toys that aren’t safe for the washing machine.
• Check to see if the sensory toy requires batteries, and if so, look to see if the batteries included. Many companies leave it up to the parent to buy the batteries separately.
• When your child is no longer interested in his or her fabric sensory toys, you can give them to your pup.
• Some sensory toys are small and pose a choking hazard. Always examine the toys and make sure they are age-appropriate before giving them to your little one. You’ll also want to supervise your toddler during playtime.
• Consider sensory toys that are backed by a satisfaction or money-back guarantee. If the toys don’t meet your expectations, you’ll be able to contact the company for a replacement or refund.
• The cost of sensory toys varies based on how simple or complex the design of the toy is. The Neliblu Snap and Click Fidget Toys and the Sassy Stretchy String Sensory Toys are only the lower end of the price range, as they are lightweight and easy to use. You’ll find the SMALL FISH Fidget Toys Set is on the higher end of the price range because it includes 22 different toys. The Crayola Musical Doodle Board also commands a higher price due to its ability to light up and play a variety of songs.
• MORE: The Best Sensory Tables