Choosing the right toy for your child can quickly become a headache, as there are so many options. Between 12 and 18 months, babies walk, climb, and love to empty and fill everything. In this guide, we review the truly suitable toys, explaining why they work at this specific age.
Our selection criteria
For this selection, we considered safety (CE, EN 71 standards, absence of small parts), material durability, long-term play interest, and suitability for the skills a child develops at this age. Parental feedback and the opinions of early childhood professionals also weighed in.
Our top 5 explained
First choice: a versatile toy that supports several months of development. Second choice: a classic that has proven its worth. Third: a more creative option to stimulate imagination. Fourth: a sensory awakening toy. Fifth: a motor skill toy. Combine them according to your child's profile.
How much to spend?
There's no need to aim for the high-end at all costs. For this age group, a budget of €20 to €50 per toy allows for quality products. Second-hand is also an excellent option, especially for sturdy wooden toys or major brands.
Traps to avoid
Beware of toys overloaded with lights and sounds: they capture attention, but the child experiences rather than plays. Also avoid toys that are too "gendered" or stereotypical. Opt for open-ended toys that allow for imagination and multiple play scenarios.
Why this age is crucial
Each age group corresponds to a specific developmental window. Skipping a stage or imposing a toy that is too complex is rarely productive. Conversely, a toy that is too simple quickly bores the child. The challenge is to aim for the zone of proximal development: what the child doesn't yet know how to do but can learn with a little help.
Frequently asked questions
At what age is this toy truly suitable?
The age indicated by the manufacturer is a minimum. Depending on the child's maturity, use can extend over several years.
How many toys are needed for this age?
Better to have few and well-chosen. 10 to 15 toys available at a time are more than enough, and allow for rotation.
Should I prefer new or second-hand?
Second-hand is excellent for wooden toys or major brands. For stuffed animals and mouth toys, new remains safer.
In summary, the right toy is the one that corresponds to the child in front of you, not an abstract ideal. Observe their tastes, interests, current passions, and use this guide as a brainstorming tool rather than a checklist.