The first months of life are a crucial time for a baby's physical, cognitive and emotional development , which is precisely why it is important to know how to stimulate all their abilities right from the start through those toys and accessories that can help them in their growth path.

We therefore thought we would write a short guide to give you a hand in choosing the best toys according to your baby's developmental stage!

How to choose games, general considerations

1. Safety: the first thing is to check that the toys are made of non-toxic materials that meet the safety criteria set by current regulations. For example, they should not have sharp edges or easily removable parts that could be swallowed.

2. Age and developmental stage: Each child is unique and follows different developmental paths, however, the breakdown by months of life can give an indication of what games to introduce

3. Sensory stimulation: Self-discovery and identification of the senses is part of the child's developmental journey, which should be stimulated with sensory games that are designed to stimulate sight, touch and hearing.

4. Fun factor: Fun and happiness are the best leverage for learning, so we need to understand which games make the child happiest and encourage him to interact with the world around him

5. Practicality: Last but not least, we need to consider the practicality of the game, such as ease of cleaning and ability to be transported.

Which games to choose according to the age of the child

1. 0 to 3 months: during this period, infants are still very small and need very simple toys that stimulate their senses while helping them interact with the outside world.
   Toys with soft textures, bright colors and muffled sounds are perfect for their first days of life.

2. 3 to 6 months: At this age, infants begin to interact more actively with the world around them and therefore need toys that encourage their hand-eye coordination and ability to grasp objects. For example, toys with rings, music boxes, gum massagers or doudou are best suited

3. 6 to 9 months: In these months, infants need activity-oriented toys that encourage their mobility and ability to sit up. 

4. 9 to 12 months: infants in this age group are very curious and need games that stimulate exploration and logical activity.
   An example might be shapes or blocks to set or simple puzzles.

Types of games

1. Sensory toys: these are designed to stimulate an infant's senses, such as sight, touch and hearing. For example, toys with different textures, sounds, lights and colors.

2. Activation games: are designed to help the infant develop hand-eye coordination and the ability to grasp objects. For example, toys that produce sounds when pressed or shaken.

3. Imitation games: are designed to encourage infants to imitate adults and develop their social and communication skills. For example, games that simulate phone calls

4. Building games: are designed to help the infant develop logic and problem-solving skills. For example, games with blocks or puzzles.

5. Motor activity games: these are designed to encourage the infant to move and develop physical strength. For example, games that encourage the infant to crawl or walk.

6. Fun games: these are designed to entertain the infant and help him develop his imagination. For example, games with animals or cartoon characters.

In conclusion, it is important to choose toys that are safe, appropriate for the infant's age and stage of development, and that encourage his or her growth and development. If you are in doubt about choosing the most appropriate toy ask your pediatrician for advice!