Children learn through play and each stage of their development lays critical groundwork for the next. In this first installment in our series “Finding the Perfect Toy,” we’ll offer tips to help you choose a great toy for a little one aged 0-12 months.

In a baby’s first year, he or she will grow by leaps and bounds and toys will be a big part of their learning process. Generally:

• Newborns up to 3-month-old babies really enjoy things they can look at and listen to.
• Children 3-6 months are learning to grasp objects, babble and raise their head and chest while on their tummy. They also may begin teething.
• At 7 months, babies often can roll over and sit up, are gaining control of their hands and getting ready to crawl.
• At 12 months, babies are able to crawl, sit up and often pull up on furniture or other objects. They also are able to imitate words. Many are even walking!

Luckily, most packaging these days actually displays the appropriate age range for a toy. Even though this helps take some of the guesswork out of buying an appropriate toy, you should still think about:

• Is the toy well-made, durable and safe?
• Will the child find the toy fun?
• What will the toy teach the child?
• Will the toy grow with the child?

At Earth Explorer Toys, we ask these questions, too and make sure we stock plenty of items that will meet your approval and your child’s.

For a child 0-12 months, here are some of our recommendations:

Baby Mat Bear: This plush baby mat comes in pink and blue and is perfect for napping, playing or traveling. The mat is slip resistant, machine washable and there isn’t anything little hands can pull loose. $44.99

Sophie la Girafe: Made from soft, flexible, baby-friendly 100% natural rubber with natural paint, Sophie is sure to become a teether’s best friend. She also makes a sweet, happy sound when squeezed. $22.99Top of Form

Yookidoo Tote Along Musical Mirror: A perfect first mirror for crib or floor play with two songs, lights that follow in sequence and a gentle giraffe for lots of cuddling. Encourages baby to lift their head and follow along with the lights, making tummy time terrific time. $22.99

Classic Skwish: This simple but sophisticated toy will appeal to a baby’s visual and tactile curiosity. It’s made with replenishable rubber wood in Thailand with safe, nontoxic, water-based finish. $15.99

Crawl ‘n Go Snail: This musical battery-operated snail rolls along and spins its shell as it goes. It includes two shells that are also engaging activity toys. One shell becomes a stacker with five chunky pieces. The other shell has colorful beads that spin around and slide up and down. $32.99

What toys have you found to be great for children younger than 12 months old? Please share!