As soon as news of the birth of your baby is announced you can bet you’ll be given toys as gifts and you’ll probably buy a few yourself, but what toys are best?

Despite doing little else than eating and sleeping for the first few months, they are actually busy taking in everything and everyone that surrounds them- voices, noises, smells. However, a few good toys to stimulate them will be good for their development.

A few ideas on how to choose the best toy for your baby

• Cot mobiles are always a favourite. Place them at the right height so they are within the baby’s vision. Many have music and plenty of pretty shapes and colours which will keep baby entertained.

• Activity centres are also a good option, with many having different textures, colours, noises and things to pull, press and touch. Newborns love high-pitched sounds, so chimes and rattles are great for babies up to six months. • Teething rings and soft books, building blocks or cloth skittles are good fun options.

• Mirrors are a real hit with little ones, they find looking at their own reflection fascinating, many toys include plastic mirrors.

but……… the best toy of all is you! All these toys are great and will keep baby occupied, but nothing is better than time spent with someone who loves them. This is a great opportunity to remember your nursery rhymes and sing them all your favourites, or if you’re not feeling vocal, a few funny voices combined with funny faces may produce a chuckle! Raspberries on their tummies and this little piggy on their toes is also one to try. Just have fun and your baby will too!

Always make sure though, that what you buy or gifts you are given, are recommended for your baby’s age range.