Top Gifts for Babies from Birth to Twelve Months

Purchasing gifts for infants and young babies can be a daunting task since they don't seem to really play that much yet and they certainly can not tell you what it is they would like to receive. There are however several wonderful toys for this age group that can stimulate and encourage your little one to reach out and play.

The Lamaze: Multi-Sensory Clutch Cube by Learning Curve. This multi-sensory cube is soft for little ones and has tons of things to explore to keep your baby's attention. The cube rattles, has peek-a-boo flaps, rings that clink, chimes, a green apple scent, and multiple textures, colors, and patterns. The best part is that not only will this toy offer stimulation for your baby, but also the entire thing is chewable with different textures for baby's gums. When your baby is done chewing on it, just throw it in the washing machine. The Clutch cube is recommended for ages 3 months and up, retails for $14.99, and can be found online and in most major retail stores.

Secondly we have the Hug and Learn Baby Tad by LeapFrog. This cute little frog is recommended for ages 6 months and up and retails for $26.99. Tad will help your baby learn about colors and shapes, and offers a variety of music to keep your baby happy. There is a daytime button and nighttime button so you can have lullabies when its time for bed and cheerful songs for during the day. You can even program up to six minutes of continuous instruments for your baby to listen to. Tad can be found online and in most major retail stores.

Next is the Tummy Time Prop & Play Mat by I-Play. This 3-D activity mat is recommended for ages 3-12 months and retails for $39.99. Your baby will have a blast with the different textures, colors, and sounds, and he/she will be getting their needed tummy time all with the same activity! The fun 3-D characters are soft and the mat and pillow are machine washable for easy clean up. Everything is just the right size for young babies and infants so you can be rest assured that your little one is safe. The Tummy Time Prop & Play Mat is available online and at most major retail stores.

Now it's time for the Winnie the Pooh: Magic Rattle 'n Ride by Fisher-Price. When your baby shakes the rattle Pooh rides his turtle. The turtle and Pooh are soft plush material and Pooh's head, the turtle's head, and the turtle's legs all move along as they ride around. Entertaining melodies and fun sayings play while Pooh and his friend move about. It's a wonderful interactive toy that encourages many developmental skills. Winnie the Pooh: Magic Rattle 'n Ride is available online and at most major retail stores, is recommended for ages 6 months and up, and retails for $29.99.

Last on the list is the Laugh & Learn: Learning Bunny by Fisher-Price. This soft, plush bunny helps babies learn about counting, sizes, textures, colors, and opposites. With three modes of play and multiple spots for baby to push to hear songs, phrases, music, giggles and sound effects, your baby is sure to be entertained (and learning) for hours. The Laugh & Learn: Learning Bunny is available online and in most major retail stores, is recommended for ages 6 months to 3 years, and retails for $15.99.

Now you have some great ideas for the little one on your holiday list, so have fun and remember to share the holiday spirit with others this holiday season!