When I had my first baby, I wasn’t sure if toys even mattered in the first few months. Because to be honest, like most newborns, all my baby did was sleep, eat, and stare blankly into space most of the day. I thought, What’s the point of buying toys when my baby can’t even hold them yet?
But after a few weeks of watching my little one slowly become more alert, I realized that even tiny babies are constantly learning. Their brains are making new connections every second, and the right toys can actually help support their development.
So if you’re wondering what toys actually make sense for 0-3 months, here’s what I’ve learned:
- Toys help with early sensory development – Babies at this stage respond best to high-contrast colors, soft textures, and gentle sounds.
- They encourage hand-eye coordination – Around 2-3 months, babies start swatting at objects and tracking movement.
- They provide comfort and stimulation – Simple rattles, crinkle toys, and soft plushies can engage and soothe them.
The key? Keep it simple. You don’t need a million fancy toys—just a few great ones. Here are 7 of the best toys for 0-3 months that my babies actually used and loved.
1. High-Contrast Black and White Cards – Best for Newborn Vision Development
Newborns don’t see color very well yet, but they love bold black-and-white patterns. High-contrast cards help strengthen their vision and encourage focus in those early weeks.
Why It’s Great:
- Helps visual development
- Encourages focus and tracking
- Can be used during tummy time or attached to the crib
Things to Consider:
- Newborns won’t interact with them much yet—but they’ll love looking at them!
Best Pick: Manhattan Toy Wimmer-Ferguson Infant Stim Mobile Cards
2. Soft Rattle or Wrist Rattles – Best for Encouraging Movement
Around 6-8 weeks, babies start to explore their hands and arms more. A soft rattle or wrist rattles gently encourage them to move, helping develop motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Why It’s Great:
- Gentle sound stimulates hearing
- Encourages movement and self-awareness
- Soft and safe for little hands
Things to Consider:
- Some babies might be startled by loud rattles, so start with a soft one
Best Pick: Infantino Wrist Rattles & Foot Finders
3. Tummy Time Mirror – Best for Encouraging Baby to Lift Their Head
Tummy time can be a struggle, but a baby-safe mirror makes it so much easier. Babies love looking at faces, and seeing their own reflection encourages them to lift their head and engage during tummy time.
Why It’s Great:
- Makes tummy time more fun
- Encourages visual tracking
- Can be propped up on the floor or crib
Things to Consider:
- Some mirrors can be too small—look for a large, clear one
Best Pick: Sassy Tummy Time Floor Mirror
4. Crinkle Books – Best for Sensory Exploration
Soft books with crinkly pages are amazing for sensory play. Even at a few weeks old, babies are fascinated by the sound, and by 2-3 months, they may start trying to grab the pages.
Why It’s Great:
- Engages hearing and touch
- Lightweight and easy to hold
- Great for tummy time or stroller rides
Things to Consider:
- Not all crinkle books are machine washable—check before buying!
Best Pick: Lamaze Soft Crinkle Book
5. Soft Plush or Lovey – Best for Comfort and Bonding
Even newborns love soft, cozy textures. A small, lightweight plush or lovey can provide comfort during nap time or when being held. It can also become a familiar object that soothes your baby as they grow.
Why It’s Great:
- Helps with comfort and bonding
- Soft, safe, and easy for baby to hold
- Can be used for gentle sensory play
Things to Consider:
- Avoid plushies with small parts like eyes or buttons
Best Pick: Pro Goleem Lovey Security Blanket
6. Hanging Mobile – Best for Stimulating Baby’s Vision
A high-contrast or colorful mobile above the crib or play mat helps newborns practice visual tracking and focus. Some even have gentle music or movement, making them even more engaging.
Why It’s Great:
- Helps strengthen baby’s vision
- Encourages focus and tracking
- Some have music for extra stimulation
Things to Consider:
- Avoid overly bright or fast-moving mobiles, as they can be overstimulating
Best Pick: Tiny Love Meadow Days Take-Along Mobile
7. Play Mat with Kick Piano – Best for Full-Body Movement
At around 2-3 months, babies start kicking and moving their legs more. A play mat with a kick piano encourages leg movement while also introducing cause and effect (“Oh, I kicked it, and it made a sound!”).
Why It’s Great:
- Encourages kicking and movement
- Engages multiple senses
- Helps with coordination
Things to Consider:
- Can take up a bit of space, so make sure you have room
Best Pick: Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym
FAQs About Toys for 0-3 Months
What toys should I avoid for newborns?
Avoid anything too loud, heavy, or overstimulating. Also, steer clear of toys with small parts or loose fabric that could pose a choking hazard.
How can I use these toys for development?
Rotate them throughout the day! Use a mirror for tummy time, a rattle for hand coordination, and a play mat for leg movement.
When should I introduce different toys?
Start with black-and-white cards and soft textures in the first few weeks. By 2 months, introduce rattles, crinkle books, and play mats to encourage interaction.
Final Thoughts
The best toys for 0-3 months are simple, sensory-friendly, and designed to support early development. You don’t need a huge collection—just a few key items that engage your baby and make playtime fun.
Which toy are you excited to try?
