Bringing home a newborn is exciting and overwhelming. One big question is, “What toys do I need for a newborn?” If you’re like me, you’ve seen endless lists filled with fancy, expensive toys. But here’s the truth—newborns don’t need much. A few simple toys can help with their early growth. After testing and researching, I found what works. Let’s discuss the best newborn toys and what your baby will use!
What Toys Do I Need for a Newborn?
Newborns are tiny and sleepy. They mostly eat and snuggle. So, do they need toys? Yes, but not like older babies do.
Skip the flashy toys with lights and sounds. Newborns don’t “play” yet. Instead, they learn through sight, sound, and touch. The right toys help them focus, track movement, and explore textures.
High-Contrast Black and White Toys
Newborns can’t see colours well at first. Their world is blurry, mostly in shades of grey. That’s why black-and-white toys are so helpful. They help babies focus and improve their sight.
Here are some great options:
- Black-and-white flashcards
- Soft cloth books with significant patterns
- Crinkle fabric toys
Personal tip: I used black-and-white cards during tummy time. My baby loved them! He stared at them for minutes, which is a lot for a newborn.
Soft Rattles & Sensory Toys
Newborns can’t control their hands well yet, but they love sounds. A soft rattle helps them track movement, learn cause and effect, and explore touch.
Here are some great options:
- Soft plush rattles
- Textured sensory balls
- Crinkle toys
Personal tip: My baby’s first big moment was gripping a soft rattle. At first, he just held it. Then, he learned that shaking it made noise. His little face lit up!
Tummy Time Mats & Play Gyms
Tummy time helps build neck and core strength. A good mat or gym makes it easier and more fun. Look for one with:
- Different textures for sensory play
- Hanging toys to encourage reaching
- A soft mirror to help with self-recognition
Pro tip: If your baby fusses, place a high-contrast toy or mirror in front of them. It keeps them interested!
Mirrors for Self-Discovery
Babies don’t know it’s them in the mirror, but they love faces! A baby-safe mirror helps them look, follow the movements, and make fun expressions.
Best choices:
- Soft, unbreakable baby mirrors
- Play gyms with mirrors
Personal tip: My baby stared, cooed, and wiggled. So cute!
Soft Music & White Noise Toys
Sound is a newborn’s comfort zone. They’ve spent months in the womb hearing your heartbeat, voice, and muffled outside noises. Gentle sounds help them relax and start recognizing patterns.
Best options:
- Soft lullaby toys
- White noise machines
- Parent’s voice (talking, singing, reading)
Pro tip: What is the best thing for newborns to listen to? Your voice! Reading, singing, and talking to your baby builds connections and supports language development.
FAQs
Do newborns need toys?
Newborns don’t need many toys, but sensory-rich items like black-and-white books, soft rattles, and mirrors help stimulate their early development.
What toys should a newborn play with?
Newborns engage best with high-contrast toys, soft rattles, tummy time mats, mirrors, and gentle sound toys. These encourage vision, touch, and hearing skills.
What is the first thing to buy for a newborn?
The essentials come first—swaddles, diapers, and a safe sleep space. For toys, start with simple sensory-friendly items like black-and-white cards or soft rattles.
What is the best thing for newborns to listen to?
The best newborn sounds are a parent’s voice, soft lullabies, gentle white noise, or soothing nature sounds. Talking and singing boost bonding and language skills.
Are battery-powered toys suitable for newborns?
No, newborns don’t need flashy, loud toys. Simple toys that encourage natural exploration—like soft textures, gentle sounds, and bold patterns—are best.
How many toys does a newborn need?
Newborns need just a few well-chosen toys. Start with 3-5 sensory toys and see what your baby responds to before buying more.
Can newborns see toys?
Newborns see best in black, white, and high-contrast colours. They can focus on objects about 8-12 inches away, making high-contrast books and cards ideal.
When should I introduce toys to my newborn?
You can introduce toys from birth! High-contrast cards, soft rattles, and tummy time mats help engage their senses even in the first few weeks.
Are expensive newborn toys worth it?
Not always! Simple, sensory-rich toys work just as well as pricey ones. Newborns learn best from interaction, touch, and hearing familiar voices.
What is the safest toy for a newborn?
Soft, non-toxic, and lightweight toys are safest. Avoid anything with small parts, rough edges, or loud noises that might startle or overstimulate your baby.
Final Thoughts
Newborns don’t play like older kids, but toys help them grow. Simple toys with different sights, sounds, and textures work best.
