The vast majority of parents and caregivers have heard of sensory play these days and many are aware of the benefits associated with this type of play. As the name suggests, sensory play is designed to stimulate a little one’s sense of touch, sight, sound, smell and taste, and there are lots of different sensory toys and props that you can use whilst playing with your baby.

Although some baby sensory toys are closed-ended, more often than not the items that are used for sensory play are multi-functional and they can be played with in various different ways. If you’re keen to purchase some open-ended sensory toys for your newborn baby and you’re wondering which are the most flexible and versatile, below we have put together a list of some of the most popular multi-functional toys for babies that will never get boring.

Activity mirrors

Sensory toys that can be used both at home and also whilst you’re out and about are always useful to have, and activity mirrors are arguably one of the best baby sensory toys available. Not only does this type of toy feature a large mirror that will encourage curiosity and keep your little one entertained, but activity mirrors also have additional multi-sensory elements for extended play too.

Sensory bottles

Whilst on the surface they are very straightforward, sensory bottles are brilliant for sensory play. These bottles contain lots of different items and they will captivate your little one’s attention when they are tipped upside down. Playing with this sensory toy will enable your baby to practice visual tracking and also develop their gross motor skills. Of course, sensory bottles can also be taken anywhere with you for on the go fun.

Developmental cubes

Similarly to an activity mirror, there are lots of different elements to a developmental cube. The bright colours, different patterns and various textures that make up this baby sensory toy will fascinate your little one and there is an abundance for them to take in when playing with a developmental cube. All of your baby’s senses will be stimulated by this single toy and it will provide hours of entertainment.

Sensory scarves

As one of the most versatile baby sensory toys on the market, sensory scarves can be used in so many ways during sensory play. Whether you’re playing peekaboo together or your little one is enjoying some tummy time, sensory scarves can make things much more fun. This sensory toy can be used throughout different stages of development too, helping your baby reach various milestones in their early years.

Fabric books

Even when they’re too little to speak or read themselves, books are still some of the most popular toys for babies. Lots of fabric books, such as touch-and-feel books and shake, look and touch books, are actually designed to provide a multi-sensory experience, making them intriguing and fun for babies. Rather than just listening to you read, your little one can get involved when you pick up this type of book.

Sensory balls

This type of baby sensory toy comes in all shapes, sizes, colours and textures, and sensory balls can be played with for hours on end. It goes without saying that there are so many different games that you can play with a ball, but when the ball lights up and/or makes a sound, it will instantly be more entertaining. Simply throwing or rolling a sensory ball around can provide both sensory and developmental fun.

Purchasing baby sensory toys for your little one

Ultimately, all of the different sensory toys mentioned above are flexible and versatile, and they can be used in so many different ways. You can guarantee that your baby will get a lot of use out of these open-ended toys and they are all a brilliant investment to make. You will likely be surprised by just how affordable lots of these baby sensory toys are as well.

When purchasing new sensory toys and props for your little one, be sure to visit the My Little Goody Box online store. We have a brilliant selection of items on our website that can be played with and enjoyed by children during the first few years of their life, and you can trust that they will be both fun and educational. You can always purchase from us in confidence knowing that we handpick the items on our website too and they are of the highest quality. Should you have any questions about our baby sensory toys before placing your order, feel free to get in touch with our team today, they will be happy to help.