Toys

Unique, Modern Toys for Babies and Kids

Looking for something special for the little one in your life? Whether you have a newborn baby or a big kid, discover unique and cute toys that will bring a smile to their face, such as rattles, teethers, playhouses and stuffed animals. If you're searching for a birthday present, holiday gift or something just because, discover a variety of toys, games and books that suit your child's interests.

Baby Toys: Welcome your little one into the world with toys that engage their developing senses. For their first moments, consider a soft lovey or plush rattle. As they get older, provide an outlet for budding baby teeth with teethers to give relief to sore gums. Wood rings provide a classic look, while silicone in playful shapes offers a whimsical touch. To keep baby active, opt for an activity chair to help them sit upright as they play with their blocks, or let them play with a tummy time toy when they lie on the floor with stuffed animals.

Baby Playmats and Gyms: To strengthen baby's growing muscles, find playmats and gyms that keep them moving. When they're lying on their back, a gym with plush animals dangling overhead engages their arms and eyesight. Lay a soft blanket underneath to keep them cozy. Are they crawling on the floor in the playroom? To make their time with toys more comfortable, set up their blocks or puzzles on a play mat that fits the nursery's color scheme. Whether you're going with gender-neutral greys or vibrant pops of color, a mat provides comfort to their space.

Modern Wooden Toys: Another way to entertain babies and kids is with wooden toys. For toddlers, provide a pull toy in an engaging shape and color. Whether it looks like a train, duck or alligator, they'll love taking the toy from room to room. Another option: wood blocks and puzzles. Whether they're stacking basic shapes or constructing an elaborate cityscape, the toys help develop their fine motor skills.

Rockers and Ride-Ons: Help toddlers develop their balance with rockers and ride-on toys. From classic rocking horses to whimsical whales, the toys make a thoughtful baby shower gift. If they prefer automobiles to animals, another option is a firetruck with rolling wheels. Not sure what kind to get? Consider other elements in the nursery, kids' room or playroom—if their space has an aquatic theme, try a whale. Going with a woodland aesthetic? A bear fits right in. When in doubt, opt for the little one's favorite animal.

Playhouses and Play Tents: Is your little one a little older? Let their imaginations soar with a playhouse that complements their room. For an outer-space theme, consider a rocket ship playhouse equipped with make-believe control panels. If you're going with a nature theme, accessorize the kids' room with a floral play tent instead. To make things comfy for storytime, naptime and playtime, use a floor cushion inside their playhouse or tent.

Arts and Crafts: For the aspiring artist in your family, opt for children's toys and games that let them express their creative side. Arts and crafts such as paint brushes and crayons are a hit with toddlers and big kids alike. If you're going all in with an easel, be sure to protect the floors beneath from any paint with a splat mat. If your little one prefers working on their masterpieces at a desk, use an acrylic table mat to shield it from crayons, colored pencils and watercolors. Then, organize their station with a caddy for brushes, pens, scissors and other arts and crafts supplies. Want to let your child color on the go? Coloring books are fun gifts for birthdays and holidays.

Stuffed Animals and Dolls: Let your little one play with a new make-believe friend with stuffed animals and dolls. Give their bedroom a cozy touch with a furry friend that complements the room's design scheme. Going with a woodland animal aesthetic? A plush bunny or bear fits right in. If the nursery is ocean-themed, opt for a cuddly whale or octopus instead. Safari animals such as giraffes or lions suit an exotic aesthetic. If your little one would rather play house, consider a soft doll, too.

Kids' Books: Looking for something educational for the baby shower or birthday party? Baby and kids' books fit the bill. For the family's youngest members, consider board books with textured pages that let baby touch and feel. Have bigger kids? Opt for a story book that suits their interests. From unicorns to dinosaurs, the picture book's illustrations leave toddlers captivated. For those who are a little older, consider an educational book about historical figures from scientists to fashion designers.