Photo: Nyen; Illustrations by Wanton Doodle
0-12 Months
1. BEST SENSORY TOY
Crochet Rattle, $20
Sebra at Cuckoo
These hand-crocheted cotton rattles are a must-have for any crib. They are the perfect size for a baby to grip. Besides, made of soft cotton, it is safe for babies to chew on without hurting their mouths.
2. BEST POOL TOY
Baby Squeeze Toy Whale, $4.90
Tollyjoy
This toy may be small, but it will provide endless entertainment when your little one is taking a dip in the pool. Extra points for being BPA-free.
3. BEST ALL-ROUND EDUCATIONAL TOY
Sponky Abacus, $17.95
The Amazing Baby Company
This fabric plushy comes with a mini bead counter that will not only boost your child’s motor skills, it will give them an early introduction to maths.
4. BEST TRAVEL TOY
Sponky Clip Anywhere Toy, $27.95
The Amazing Baby Company
If you’re tired of losing toys on your day out, this clip-on toy is a must buy. It’s decorated with toys that will entertain your child and it remains in place when you’re on your journey.
5. BEST BIRTHDAY GIFT
Clifton Rose Baby Teddy and Bib Gift Set, $45
Cath Kidston
This is the perfect gift for a new arrival. Within a pretty floral suitcase, you will find a fabric teddy bear and towel-backed bib. Children will also love toting the suitcase when they get older.
6. BEST RIDE-ON TOY
Wobble Toddle Ride On, $156
Early Learning Centre
This two-in-one toy can be used as a car for a scoot around the room or as a walker. The seat also comes with a sorter to increase coordination.
7. BEST SOFT TOY
Sleep Sheep on the Go, $59.90
Cloud B at Pupsik Studio
This cuddly music box will lull your baby to sleep with one of four sounds: mother’s heartbeat, spring showers, ocean surf and whale songs. It comes with two sleep timers and has a tab that lets you attach it to the crib.
8. BEST BOOK
Sponky: The Lizard Hunter, $14
The Amazing Baby Company
This cute lift-the-flap book about Chihuahua Sponky will make story time more fun. Children will enjoy peeking behind rocks with Sponky and learning more about wildlife.
9. BEST PLAYMAT
Sponky Playmat, $84.95
The Amazing Baby Company
This soft playmat comes with a selection of toys that will encourage your baby to reach out, helping them develop their motor skills. As baby grows, the arches can be taken down so he or she can hold it for closer inspection. It makes a fun addition to your nursery.
10. BEST NEW TOY IN THE MARKET
Giant Activity Cube, $139
Early Learning Centre
This five-sided cube is filled with lots of fun activities for your little one to discover: From a drum that changes colour, to a fabric cube that will help spin animal characters around when it’s pulled. This cube will become a fast favourite with active children.
11. BEST BATH TOY
Baby Bath Squeeze Toy Duck, $4.90
Tollyjoy
Not just BPA-free, this colourful toy comes without the typical hole in the bottom, so you don’t have to worry about any build-up of grime on the inside. Fun and sterile for baby.
12. BEST TOY FOR TACTILE PLAY
Bite & Play teether, $12.90
MAM at Biconi
This colourful teether helps make teething a whole lot easier. Not only is there a small spinning ball to distract baby, there is a water-filled part that cools and soothes aching gums as well.
13. BEST CLASSIC TOY
Kawan Rubber Duck, $39.90
Hevea at Mothercare
This BPA-free and PVC-free rubber ducky makes the perfect bath-time pal. It’s easy for little hands to grip; and its beak makes the perfect teething soother. With no joints in its design for bacteria to form, it’s hygienic for baby as well.
14. BEST MUSICAL TOY
Baby Musical Toy Bear, $13.90
Tollyjoy
This toy develops your baby’s responsiveness towards sound and, with its soothing lullaby, helps calm them down before bedtime. Mum judges were pleased to note that they didn’t sound “electronic” either.
