For all of the scientific studies on baby development, nothing is more so well-documented than one simple fact: babies have a greater receptiveness to learning than anybody else. Their receptiveness to learning has become the envy to students and scholars, with many babies showing signs of learning even whilst sleeping. The key development comes through play; even the most basic forms of activity can help to develop hand-eye co-ordinations, reflexes and mental association.

Baby Learning Toys

Even before your child can read, write or even speak his or her first word, learning can take place in all forms of activity. Try to avoid any technological playtime until later in their development, as often their own creativity and early imagination is key to exploring their own capabilities. Colour association can be a firm favourite, as the visible contrast in emotion is clear to see; try and apply this with other sense-experience. Rattles are always a popular choice - the simple sound it creates combined with the range of percussion opportunities opens up a greater understanding of rhythm. For an all-round sense experience, activity centres provide a variety of entertainment.

Infant & Toddler Mental Learning

You may get unexpected reactions from new toys, but improvisation is the key here - try and empathise with what they're trying to communicate and embellish what they're doing by mimicking their action or introducing toys or actions to associate with it. What your child plays with is entirely up to them; they'll soon establish favourites, and quite rightly too, as their own preference in playthings can often evoke their creative sides. One important feature is absurdity - sometimes the strangest looking toys, such as the Whoozit collection, can be the most popular. Discovery of the hidden activities and features are only a part of what's going on in their minds - the main source of learning comes from simply making sense of the world around them.

Specialised Children's Activities

It'll soon start to emerge what your child's forte is when it comes to learning; perhaps they'll have an interest for words, be it in speaking, listening or even starting to write. Alternatively, they may appreciate musical games, or the more artistic side of things in drawing, painting or shaping. Develop what you feel is best and suggest toys they'll get the most out of - in each of the above cases, letter blocks, music toys and play-dough or paints are just some ideas of how to let them be at their most creative.