What are Good Toys for a 4-Month-Old?
Support their head while being held
Use their arms to swing at toys
Bring their hands to their mouth
Grip a toy when one is handed to them
Push up onto their elbows and/or forearms while on their tummy
What to Look for in Toys for 4-Month-Olds
Curious children instinctively place objects in their mouths, so choose non-toxic toys that are larger than your child’s mouth to prevent choking.
Miller recommends rattles that make noise and toys that are easy for a 4-month-old to grasp, as they work on their fine motor skills.
Provide a variety of objects with different textures, sounds and colors for added sensory stimulation.
Avoid items with sharp edges. Again, baby will most likely use their mouth to explore a new toy, so don’t give them anything with sharp edges or loose parts.
Remember that playtime can be educational too. With this in mind, Miller suggests choosing toys and books with realistic depictions of animals, vehicles and people.
Monitor baby as they play, especially if they’re in an upright position. “Though holding up their head is a milestone for 4-month-olds, babies at this age have typically not mastered sitting, and may still get fatigued from holding their heads for longer periods of time,” explains Sarno.
Check the manufacturer age guidelines for all toys, and don’t give baby anything that’s too advanced for their stage of development.
