Activity toys for babies

Activity toys from IKEA: safe fun for little ones

Do you want to gently support your baby in developing motor skills through play? Are you looking for the perfect gift for new parents or an adorable newborn? Our activity toys are fun, made with safety in mind, and help children discover the world – and what they can do. At IKEA, you will find enchanting mobiles, soft books for babies, exciting bead mazes and much more – always rigorously tested and always guaranteed to be free from substances that could be harmful to children. But why is activity and motor skills toys for newborns, babies and children from one year so important in the first place? 

Why activity toys are so important for babies and toddlers

Activity toys (including toys that support motor-skill development) are far more than just entertainment for babies – they also play an important role in their development.

• Motor development: Activity toys made of wood or fabric encourage babies to reach for things, move them or follow them with their eyes. In this way, activity toys train both fine and gross motor skills and support important movement patterns.
• Sensory perception: Different materials, colours, sounds and textures stimulate your baby’s senses. Our activity toys promote touch, sight and hearing and help babies to perceive and understand their surroundings more clearly.
• Cognitive skills: When playing with activity toys, babies learn about cause and effect – for example, that a rattle makes a sound when it is shaken. This strengthens logical thinking, concentration and spatial awareness.
• Social and emotional development: Playing together with parents or other children supports bonding and social learning. Babies experience joy, frustration and a sense of achievement – feelings they can process in a safe environment.

Toys for fine motor skills: learning through play

Give your baby toys that are fun to play with and help them learn as they go. Our interactive toys are great for building fine motor skills – encouraging little hands and fingers to grasp, twist and move with control. How about a brightly coloured bead maze? Or a soft baby book with different textures, shapes and materials to explore?

Wooden activity toys: high quality, natural and made to last

Our wooden toys support your baby’s motor development in a lovely, natural way. The wood feels good to the touch, is painted with non‑toxic colours and can withstand a lot – a great choice for babies who want to explore their toys with all their senses. Best of all: many wooden toys are just as much fun for toddlers and older children. Some things simply never go out of style. 

Activity toys for your baby: practical tips for choosing

When you want to pick out great activity toys for your baby, the choice can feel huge. Here are a few tips to make it easier:

• Less is more: Too many stimuli can be overwhelming. A small number of carefully chosen toys that are rotated regularly encourage concentration and make each toy more interesting.
• Safety and quality: Look for natural, non‑toxic materials and child‑friendly finishes. This is especially important for toys that will end up in little mouths.
• Toys that grow with your child: Products that adapt to your baby’s developmental stages will stay with them longer and keep offering new challenges.

With us you will find activity toys that tick all these boxes. Take a look around – and discover toys that are here to stay. 

More fun and safe ideas for the nursery

Still missing a few pieces for the perfect nursery? We can probably help. With us you will find baby cots and cot mattresses that fit together perfectly – making your baby’s nights not only cosier but also safer, as there are no gaps between the frame and the mattress. You will also find wonderful soft toys, practical changing tables, soft rugs, blackout curtains and gentle lighting. Visit us in your local IKEA store, where our co‑workers will be happy to advise you. Or browse online and create the nursery of your dreams with just a few clicks.