Infants through about 6 months have little mobility, and as a consequence will need toys that will stimulate them without frustrating them as a consequence of their inability to interact. Soft toys in bright colors that they can put in their mouth are a superb choice, and if they should happen to make noise all the better. As infants will taste everything in their attempts to identify it, items with sharp corners, loose attachments ( such as beads or eyes), or extreme amounts of hair (think stuffed dog) are better suited for older children. Providing colorful pictures for their child to view while lying or being changed will delight them, as will a colorful, patterned blanket for tummy time. Many bouncy seats provide a toy bar for the infant to stare at while seated, and provide interaction as the child grows and learns to make use of their hands to reach for things.
From six months to a year children learn to use their hands to explore objects. Soft toys, books, and teething rings are a great choice. This is in addition a good age to publish plastic keys, telephones, bathtub squirting toys ( be sure they are dry, clean and free of mildew internally), rattles, and any other item the child can hold in their hand easily, so long as they don't possess small parts which might present a choking hazard. Soft balls their child can throw will please them, as they are still learning how to use their hands and are delighted by the campaign and effect of seeing a ball fly after they throw it.
From 1 or 2 years, kids are starting to understand the reasoning behind play. Toys with small parts or sharp edges should still be ignored, but this is the age where the toddler will truly start to interact with a toy. Something that makes noise will be enjoyed, whether it be a plastic piano, xylophone, or a bowl and spoon. Blocks they can stack and knock down are popular, although at this age many children have trouble with the concept of blocks that lock together. Heaps of picture books should be around, with robust pages (preferably board books) and large, colorful illustrations.
From two to four children commence to participate in imaginary play, learning how to play with other children. Toys that allow them to explore their creativity should be available-dolls and doll sized infant gear, large action figures, toy vehicles, play kitchens and food, and blocks that let them build buildings and vehicles are now suitable. Balls, playground equipment (both inside and outside), ride-on toys and different such physical outlets will be essential as well, as children this age often times have a tremendous amount of energy. This is a great time to stock your art supplies as well, keeping crayons, watercolors, fingerpaints, washable markers and coloring books/paint paper handy constantly. It will astonish you what those budding geniuses will make given the right supplies, and this is an excellent way to occupy them on a rainy day.
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