As parents, we all love watching our little ones discover the world with curious eyes and tiny hands. But did you know that play isn’t just a way to keep children entertained? It’s actually one of the most important ways babies and toddlers learn, grow, and thrive. At Cotton Planet, we believe toys are not just objects that keep the little ones busy - they’re tools for building imagination, motor skills, emotional strength, and lifelong learning.
In this post, we’ll explore why play is so vital in early childhood, the kinds of toys that support each stage of development, how to choose safe and high-quality toys, and a few fun parent–child games you can try at home.
Why and How Babies and Toddlers Learn Through Play
Play is often described as the “work of childhood.” According to early childhood experts such as Jean Piaget and Maria Montessori, play is how children make sense of their world. Far from being “just fun,” play is a powerful learning process that shapes every aspect of development.
How Play Supports Development
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Cognitive growth - Play encourages problem-solving, memory building, and early reasoning skills. A baby dropping blocks into a bucket is learning cause and effect, while a toddler stacking them is exploring balance and gravity.
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Physical development - Reaching, crawling, grasping, and climbing all begin as forms of playful exploration. Fine and gross motor skills are refined through play.
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Emotional development - Pretend play, such as feeding a doll or hugging a teddy, allows children to process feelings and develop empathy.
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Language development - Talking to toys, singing songs, or listening to stories sparks vocabulary growth and communication skills.
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Social skills - As toddlers grow, playing with others teaches sharing, cooperation, and turn-taking.
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What Type of Toys to Introduce in the First Three Years
Each stage of a child’s early life is marked by unique developmental milestones. Choosing toys that match their age not only makes playtime more enjoyable but also helps them practice new skills.
First Year: 0-12 Months
Explore our collection of incredibly cute toys, safe from the earliest days of life
Babies are discovering their senses, movements, and emotional connection with caregivers. Toys should be simple, safe, and stimulating.
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Soft rattles and sensory toys - Encourage grasping and introduce cause and effect.
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Play mats with hanging mobiles - Strengthen neck, arm, and eye coordination.
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Teething rings - Provide comfort while stimulating oral exploration.
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Cloth books - Introduce textures, colours, and the joy of turning pages.
Look through our selection of toys that will provide your child with endless entertainment from 1 year old
Second Year: 12-24 Months
Toddlers are now mobile explorers! They begin imitating adults and experimenting with problem-solving.
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Stacking cups and blocks - Build fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and creativity.
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Push-and-pull toys - Strengthen walking and coordination.
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Simple musical instruments - Encourage rhythm, sound recognition, and early music appreciation.
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Shape sorters and nesting toys - Develop problem-solving and hand–eye coordination.
Check out our collection of toys ideal for girls and boys of 2 years of age
Third Year: 24-36 Months
By age three, children are engaging in pretend play and more complex problem-solving. Toys should inspire imagination and social interaction.
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Pretend play sets (kitchen sets, dolls, tool kits) - Encourage role play and social learning.
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Art supplies (crayons, finger paints, playdough) - Boost creativity and fine motor skills.
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Ride-on toys or tricycles - Support balance, strength, and coordination.
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Storybooks and puzzles - Foster early literacy and cognitive development.
Enjoy exploring our collection of toys suitable for kids over 3 years old
What to Look Out for When Choosing Toys
When shopping for toys, especially for babies and toddlers, safety and quality must come first. At Cotton Planet, we carefully curate toys that meet the highest standards. Here’s what parents should always keep in mind:
1. Safety Standards and Certifications
Look for safety marks such as:
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CE Mark - Ensures compliance with European safety standards.
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EN71 Certification - Specific safety requirements for toys in Europe.
2. Age Appropriateness
Always check the recommended age range. A toy with small parts, for example, is not safe for babies under three years.
3. Materials Used
Opt for toys made with non-toxic, BPA-free, and preferably natural or organic materials. Wooden toys finished with water-based paints are a great eco-friendly option.
4. Quality and Durability
High-quality toys not only last longer but also offer better safety. Cheap, breakable toys can pose sharp edges or choking hazards.
5. Educational and Developmental Value
Choose toys that support growth rather than those that only “entertain.” Ask yourself: Does this toy encourage learning, creativity, or movement?
Simple Games to Play With Babies and Toddlers
While toys are wonderful, some of the most valuable play happens through simple interactions with parents. Here are a couple of easy games you can try at home:
Game 1: Peekaboo (for Babies, 6-12 months)
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How to play: Cover your face with your hands or a cloth, then reveal yourself while saying “Peekaboo!”
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Why it helps: Peekaboo teaches babies about object permanence—the idea that things still exist even when they can’t see them. It also strengthens bonds and sparks giggles, making learning fun.
Game 2: Sorting Colours (for Toddlers, 18-30 months)
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How to play: Provide coloured cups and blocks. Ask your toddler to place each block into the matching cup.
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Why it helps: This game develops problem-solving, colour recognition, and hand–eye coordination. It also encourages focus and patience.
Both games are simple, require little to no equipment, and highlight the power of everyday play in learning.
Final Thoughts
Play is far more than “fun” - it’s how babies and toddlers build the foundations for lifelong learning. From grasping a rattle in the first year to pretending to cook dinner by age three, every playful moment is a step toward growth.
When choosing toys, prioritise safety, quality, and developmental value. And remember, sometimes the best toy is your own time and attention - because play with parents creates the strongest bond of all.
At Cotton Planet, we’re here to help you find toys that nurture joy, spark curiosity, and support healthy development at every stage. Explore our collection of safe, beautifully made toys designed to make playtime meaningful for your little one.
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