Image: MomJunction Design Team
One of the milestones for a four-month-old baby is reaching out to a toy when they see it (1). So, we have included a list of the best toys for 4-month-olds to help your child stay active and engaged. Children find the colors and shapes mesmerizing, be it a dangling toy or one they can hold. Also, the right toys can help your baby stay busy for hours while helping them reach their developmental goals. These toys by trusted brands are made of child-safe, high-quality materials to ensure your child’s safety. So, read on to explore different types of toys that are age-appropriate for four-month-old babies.
Top Picks
25 Best Toys For 4-Month-Olds In 2024 – MomJunction
Buying toys for four-month-old babies is fairly simple. All you have to do is ensure that the toy looks attractive, makes engaging sound, and is safe for the baby. Additionally, it should also be easy to clean.
1. Best For Tactile Stimulation: Lamaze Freddie The Firefly
Click-clack sounds easily attract babies. This bright firefly, when attached to your baby’s stroller, produces a rattling sound that rouses the baby’s curiosity and keeps them engaged. As your baby grows older, it can be given to them to hold and play. These multiple features and compact size make the toy a suitable birthday gift for a four-month-old.
Pros
- Made of soft fabric with bright colors and patterns
- Clacking sound of rings stimulates auditory senses
- Crinkling wings and squeaker keep the baby entertained
- Textured teether and knotted antennae soothe teething gums
- Shiny mirror helps develop visual sense
Cons
- Might be a bit big for newborns
- Stitching may be bunches at some places
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 16,127 good reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Machine-Washable: Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick ‘n Play Piano Gym
This piano gym is a toy that has a lot to offer to your little munchkin as they grow. It transforms into multiple toys to suit your baby as they keep growing. The adjustable mat comes with different toys for babies, such as a dangling mirror, teether, crinkle toy, rattle, and cymbal clackers. Have a glimpse of this review video showcasing a tester’s experience with this activity mat.
Pros
- Colors and textures help develop various senses
- Dangling toys help the baby learn cause and effect
- Allows the child to play in different ways
- Soft and thick play mat is machine-washable
Cons
- Sounds may not be adequately loud
- Piano may not stay in a proper position
3. Best For Cognitive Skills: Melissa & Doug Flip Fish Baby Toy
This cuddly fish not just entertains, but also helps in developing various physical and cognitive skills. The multi-textured soft toys squeaks and crinkles and has hidden pictures located under the scales that come in handy to develop a tactile sense. Moreover, its bright colors are sure to provide a visual delight for your munchkin.
Pros
- Squeaker tail encourages grasping and develops finger strength
- Multi-colored body can promote visual development
- Multi-textured body heightens tactile sense
- Made of easily washable fabric
Cons
- Seams may not be durably stitched
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 5,044 positive customer reviews on Amazon are a testament to its quality and reliability.
Quick tip4. Best Easy-To-Fold: Fisher-Price Sit-Me-Up Floor Seat
Your naughty angel may not like the idea of lying on the bed the whole time and might cry for your attention. So, why not keep them happy with this floor seat that can help and support your baby in a sitting position? To learn more, check out this video showcasing a tester’s experience with the toy.
Pros
- Cushy seat for comfortable sitting
- Linked teethers and toys for baby to play with
- Removable and machine-washable seat pad
- Easy to fold and grab
- Made of fully recyclable material
Cons
- May not be high enough for some babies
- Leg holes might cause discomfort to the baby if used for long durations
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 14,016 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
Do remember5. Best Waterproof : Munchkin Float And Play Bubbles Bath Toy
We know how difficult it is to bathe a crying baby who hates water. These bath time toys for babies spin and rattle so your little one can be busy playing while you quickly give them a bath. It also develops hand-eye coordination. The package includes two floating balls with characters.
Pros
- Mold-free design
- Easy to hold for little hands
- Floating balls with characters can help sharpen baby’s sense of sight, sound, and touch
- Waterproof bubbles easily float on water
- Textured rings move freely around the bubbles
Cons
- Might be slippery for the baby to hold
- May develop condensation
"My little ones enjoy these bath toys a lot. They are super versatile, float well, and make fun sounds. Plus, the water-tight design keeps me worry-free about them growing mold. Hence, they get the nod of approval from this dad."
CautionWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
It's no wonder that this quality product has earned over 23,802 positive reviews on Amazon.
6. Best For Gross Motor Skills: VTech Baby Rattle And Sing Puppy
Babies enjoy playing with toys that make sounds and emit lights. This toy features more than 30 songs, sounds, and phrases, and does both of them, leading to development of gross and fine motor skills.
Pros
- Rattling sound keeps babies engaged
- Shaking the toy lights it up
- Plays music to entertain the baby
- Can help teach cause and effect
- Crinkling ears provide visual and tactile stimulation
- Develops fine and gross-motor skills
Cons
- Contains small parts inside that may be a choking hazard
- Children may find the rattle a bit heavy
"This engaging toy has become a favorite because of its lights, sounds, and colorful patterns. My baby especially loves playing with the crinkly ears. Depending on usage, the batteries may need regular changing, but it is a durable toy, and the joy it brings to my little one is unparalleled."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 9,061 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
7. Best For Open-Play: Infantino Balls, Blocks, & Buddies Activity Toy Set
These balls and blocks feature bright colors and offer great scope for open play. These versatile toys for babies include eight numbered blocks and textured balls, along with four animal squirters that are easy to grasp and attractive for babies. This collection of baby toys offers great scope for open play.
Pros
- Textured for teething
- Great for gifting
- Comes in a mesh bag for easy transfer
- Squishy material makes the toys squeezable
Cons
- Colors of the animals may not be accurate
- Contact with moisture can lead to molds
"My infant son took to this set of toys and blocks instantly. The monkey toy is his favorite. Made of soft silicone, they're easy to clean - which is crucial at his teething age. They have proven great motivators for crawling and have also been great for open-ended play, especially during travels."
8. Best Musical Toy: Baby Einstein Glow & Discover Light Bar Activity Station
Baby’s tummy time can be made more fun with this exciting Activity Station. This light-up toy plays music and flashes colorful lights. Pressing the buttons activates different features and can come in handy in teaching cause and effect. Take a look at this product testing video to know more about Baby Einstein Glow & Discover Light Bar Activity Station.
Pros
- Sharpens listening skills
- Features three modes, namely animals, colors, and xylophone
- Allows the baby to play content in English, Spanish, or French
- Keeps babies engaged, so they spend more time balancing on tummy
Cons
- Buttons may require a decent amount of pressure to work
- Stand may not be sturdy enough
9. Best For Grasp: VTech Baby Lil’ Critters Moosical Beads
Ever seen a cute little cow playing music? This cuddly animal toy features a welcoming facial expression, plays music, and flashes colorful lights. It is perfect for babies who enjoy lights and sounds. Suitable to be used as a crib toy, this stuffed animal cum light-up toy comes in handy to improve sense of touch — thanks to the different textures on it.
Pros
- Develops grasping skills
- Soft body makes it ideal for cuddling
- Bead ring helps strengthen grasp
- Lights up in different colors
Cons
- Music may become repetitive
- May be smaller than expected
10. Best Multifunctional: Vuminbox Baby Bandana Drool Bibs and Teething Toys
Babies drool a lot. This toy is a set of six baby bibs that are multi-functional one since it works as a bib that is made up of cotton, polyester, and fleece, and later works as a teether while keeping the baby entertained.
Pros
- Adjustable bib comes with nickel-free snaps
- Detachable teether can be used without the bib
- Bib is easily washable in a machine
- Adorable and durable teethers
Cons
- Teething toy may be a bit small
11. Best Easy To Setup:Baby Einstein Discovering Music Activity Table
Get your little one a brand new pal that allows them to make their own magical music. The Baby Einstein Discovering Music Activity Table features a guitar, French horn, piano, and drum to keep your baby occupied while developing a love of music in them. The center of the table features a music book with pages that can be flipped.
Pros
- Piano keys teach numbers and colors
- Brightly colored
- Can switch between three languages–English, Spanish, French
- Can be easily cleaned
Cons
- Legs may not be sturdy
- No button to turn off the lights
"This interactive toy has captured my baby's interest with its mixture of sounds and lights. It is lightweight, and its height is perfect for my toddler. The three languages offered have been great for my multilingual child. I wish it had rubber stoppers on the feet, regardless of that minor issue, this toy has been a great addition to her playtime."
12. Best Soothing Feel:Fisher-Price Rattle ‘n Rock Maracas
Rattle toys can help develop a baby’s grasping and motor skills. Its rattling sound encourages babies to shake their arms.
Pros
- Gentle push of the central button activates drum, guitar, and piano sounds
- Helps develop sound recognition and learn cause and effect
- Comes with a baby-safe mirror
- Shaped to easily fit into a baby’s hand
Cons
- Hard plastic may hurt the baby if they hit themselves accidentally
- May require more effort to make sound
13. Best Textured Rings:Baby Einstein Bendy Ball Rattle Toy
Sometimes, all a baby needs is a simple rattling toy for sensory stimulation. This rattling toy is shaped like a ball. This sensory toy comes with a small ball inside the rattles that emit a sound when it shakes. With these engaging features, it is bound to become your baby’s best friend.
Pros
- Soft plastic provides easy grip and hold
- Made from BPA-free plastic
- Easy to wipe clean
- Can fit into a diaper bag
Cons
- Fingers may occasionally get stuck in the holes
- Some babies might find it heavy
14. Best Easy To Hold:Nuby Teething Blankie
This cute set of four tiny blankets features textured teethers with smooth edges to help babies during their teething period. It comes with four fun characters attached to the center. For maintenance, make sure that you use tumble dry and do not use bleach to keep it clean.
Pros
- Made from BPA-free material
- Apt for nap time
- Made from plush materials
- Washable in machine
Cons
- May not be dryer-friendly
- Jagged edges may cause discomfort to the child
15. Best Developing Vision:Yiosion Baby Toy
Yiosion toy, suitable for babies aged six to 12 months, helps children achieve their early developmental milestones. It helps develop their imagination and cognitive and grasping skills. The transparent tube is easy to hold, and the spinning bead insect features a pleasant facial expression to keep babies engaged and entertained.
Pros
- Made of BPA-free, food-grade plastic
- Strengthens hand muscles
- Features a sensory ball and a rattle toy
- Free of sharp edges
Cons
- Fingers may get stuck between the tubes
- Slightly large
16. Best Imaginative Thinking:Manhattan Toy Wimmer-Ferguson Infant Travel Toy
Traveling becomes stress-free when your baby has a toy to play with. This black and white toy can ensure that your baby is engaged for a while. The reversible discs come with designs printed on both sides with a clamp for easy attachment to baby strollers, carriers, and car seats.
Pros
- Facilitates sensory stimulation
- Contrasting colors of the toy can interest the child
- Lightweight and portable
- A part of the award winning Wimmer Ferguson Infant Collection
Cons
- Discs may be a bit fragile
- Toys may entangle with each other
"I like how versatile and travel-friendly this toddler mobile toy, but the tiny circles didn't secure well after flipping, and retying the string was bothersome. Still, my grandchild's fascination with it makes it worth considering."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 3,391 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
17. Best Non-Toxic:Infantino Prop-A-Pillar Tummy Time & Seated Support
This animal toy supports the baby during tummy time and can also transform into a comfortable sitting couch. It comes with two detachable and adjustable toys. Whether it is Christmas, Easter, or any occasion, this can come in handy as a gift.
Pros
- Prop pillow can help strengthen back and neck muscles
- Includes a sun toy that makes crinkling sounds
- Comes with a BPA-free silicone teether
- Supportive, C-shaped pillow
- Comes with a BPA-free teether
Cons
- May constantly lean forward and push the baby
- Velcro of the pillow may not last long
18. Best BPA Free:Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin’ Tunes Gym Play Mat
For a 4-month-old baby, tummy time becomes more fun when surrounded by toys. This playmat has something interesting to offer at every corner, so the baby remains engaged for a long time. It features a loop that comes with detachable toys for babies, such as a crinkle medallion, triangle rattle, textured music note, flash cards, and a self-discovery mirror.
Pros
- Piano plays songs at the touch of a button
- Button lights up with every touch, helping teach cause and effect
- Entertains baby through four modes- laying, sitting, tummy time and take-along
- Mat is machine washable
Cons
- Mat may be thin
- Stickers may peel off over time
19. Best Fun Learning:VTech Lil’ Critters Spin and Discover Ferris Wheels
Here is yet another musical toy that can also serve as a great birthday gift for babies. The age-appropriate toy is shaped like a Ferris wheel that moves with a rattling sound and tiny lights that blink like stars.
Pros
- Manually spinning the wheel helps develop gross motor skills
- Plays songs to stimulate auditory senses
- Suction cup holder at the base enables the toy to remain stable
- Attracts attention with a friendly voice
Cons
- Suction cup may not work well for plastic surfaces
- A bit heavy
"My daughter loves this toy's lively lights, music, and colors. And the numbers and animals have made it easy to start her learning journey. The suction cup on the back is slightly unstable, but this fun and educational toy has still been a good addition to my baby’s toy collection."
20. Best Light Effects:Chuya Silicone Baby Teether Toys
Chuya teether toys, made of safe silicone material, provide your baby with relief from discomfort and pain in their soft gums and ensure they do not chew on random objects. The collection of baby toys includes various fruit shapes, such as strawberry, grapes, orange, and peach, which look interesting and appealing to babies. The lanyards feature clips to be fastened to the baby’s clothes.
Pros
- Multiple textures
- Offer tactile stimulation
- Latex- and BPA-free
- Shape sorters improve memory
- Easy to clean
- Soft and chewy
Cons
- Teethers might be tiny
21. Best Machine Washable:Nuby Soothing Teething Mitten
The Nuby teething mitten fits the hand like a glove, and thus, you need not worry about your baby dropping the teether frequently. This flexible mitten can be worn on any hand and has multiple teething surfaces.
Pros
- Made of child-safe and BPA-free silicone
- Comes in a machine-washable bag
- Makes crinkle sounds
- Includes a quality Velcro strap
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Might be a bit bulky
- Crinkle may be loud
22. Best For Maximum Grip:Splashin’kids Inflatable Tummy Time Premium Water Mat
Tummy time is no fun without a play mat. This cool mat is a great option for a birthday gift as it is filled with water and features six colored toys, making it exciting for tummy time. You can add a few water toys to keep your baby engaged and improve their fine motor skills.
Pros
- PVC mat is completely leak-proof and BPA-free
- Helps improve hand-eye coordination
- Strengthens head, neck, and shoulder muscles
- Easily foldable and inflatable
Cons
- May develop mold if not dried well
23. Best Premium Leather:SmartNoggin NogginStik Developmental Light-Up Rattle
This light-up rattle lets the babies play while parents can assess their child’s growth and sensory development. It comes with a booklet that guides parents to understand how to use the toy for understanding the baby’s growth milestones.
Pros
- Flashes multiple lights to help visual development
- Textured surface enhances the tactile stimulation
- Rattles sound ignites auditory senses
- Slim body easy to grasp and hold
- Free of BPA, lead, PVC, and phthalate
Cons
- May be a bit brittle
- May not be suitable for teething
"My baby loves this toy and finds comfort in holding it. Its vibrant colors soothe and induce sleep. I feel satisfied knowing that this toy helps promote my child's developmental skills. It's sturdy and well-designed."
24. Best Durability:Vanmor Plush Elephant Toy
This plush elephant toy by Vanmor is ideal for stimulating your little one’s auditory sense. When shaken, the toy makes a gentle sound. Made of soft velvet fabric, the toy is huggable.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Toy body includes three buttons and a speaker
- Plays one nature sound, 12 lullabies, and six funny sounds
- Soft lighting
- Promotes tactile development in children
Cons
- Toy may be smaller than expected
- Laughter sounds may be scary for some children
25. Best Elegant:Shiloh Baby Crib Plush Musical Mobile
Lying on your back and staring at the ceiling for a long time can be quite boring, isn’t it? Baby’s get bored too. But since 4-month-olds cannot sit still, this hanging toy can keep them busy and happy.
Pros
- Non-toxic ABS material used
- Meets ASTM standards
- Comes with an adjustable holder specially designed for baby cribs
- Detachable hanging toys come with squeakers, bells, and rattles
- Plays soft music as the toy holder rotates slowly
- Made of non-toxic and durable ABS material
Cons
- Toys may detach from the string upon washing
- Can be hard to disassemble
"Although the mobile's colors are less vibrant than pictured, it's visually attractive with adorable characters. There are plenty of music options with a silent mode and adjustable volume setting. Overall, a solid, safe, and charming product as a mobile and a standalone toy."
How To Choose The Right Toys For 4-Month-Olds?
Since our list features different types of toys, it can be a bit overwhelming to narrow your choices down to a single option instantaneously. Therefore, to make your selection process simpler we have prepared a buying guide. Consider the following factors when choosing the right toy for four-month-olds.
- Safety: Ensure to select toys made of safe, non-toxic materials and without small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Look for expert-approved and safety-tested toys for quality assurance.
- Skill development: Choose toys that will help your child develop various physical and cognitive skills through sensory stimulation. Look for toys with different musical or animal sounds, lights, and textures to keep the child engaged. Opt for toys that feature a variety of colors for adequate visual stimulation and to provide sensory fun for babies.
- Age-appropriate: Choose toys that are simple and easy to use, so your child can play for hours. While the toys should challenge them, they should be easy enough that the child gains interest.
- Quality: Ensure the toys are from trusted brands, made of high-quality materials, and well-stitched for long-lasting use. They should be wear- and tear-resistant and easy to maintain. They should also have a good battery life (if applicable) to provide long-lasting entertainment.
, an educator and play advocate, says, “A baby at four months learns through play with hands and mouth. It is how they navigate the outside world. Toys need to be eye-catching, with various sounds, colors, and textures, to encourage children to play with them and explore using their senses.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What toys should my four-month-old baby have?
Toys that are chunky (cause no choking hazard), safe to put in the mouth (non-toxic and soft), have a smooth finish, and are sturdy and pliable enough to handle rough play (durable) are the kind of toys a 4-month-old baby boy or girl needs. These include rattlers, teething toys, mobiles, cloth books, dolls, and musical toys.
2. Can my four-month-old play alone?
Once you have tested the toy for any inconspicuous threats, such as rough edges, it is fine to let your toddler independently explore and discover the toy. However, you should keep a watchful eye on them to prevent any mishap since babies can be unpredictable.
3. How do you entertain a bored four-month-old?
With the right toys, even the most mundane activities can become a source of entertainment for your four-month-old. Using bath time toys during a routine cleansing session, a sit-me-up seat on which rattlers can be attached, and blankets with attached teethers that keep your little one warm and entertained are some of the many ways to keep your baby engrossed.
4. How much should my four-month-old play independently?
Although it’s always advisable to not leave a baby alone for long, that doesn’t mean your child can’t play independently while being under your supervision. They can play on their own without any interference from your end for as long as they are able to figure out how to use the toy safely and not get bored with it.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna specializes in children’s products. She does in-depth research by going through the product information, reviews, and analysis to find safe, child-friendly products for our readers. The toys featured in our list are non-toxic, durable, and will help children reach their developmental milestones. The auditory and visual stimulation can help improve your child’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
The Bottom Line
When you find colorful, engaging, and durable toys that grow with your 4-month-old child, you get to keep your little ones busy as they notice the toy’s movements, shades, and sounds. Toys with various textures are helpful in tactile stimulation in infants. Among the options, the Lamaze Freddie The Firefly is captivating with its clicking rings and mirror. Meanwhile, the Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick ‘n Play Piano Gym can entertain children with its play options and textures. We also like the Melissa & Doug Flip Fish Baby Toy, which helps promote developmental skills. Also, since babies between one month and one year put their toys in their mouths, they must be made of BPA- and toxin-free material and free of parts and pieces that may be a choking hazard.
Infographic: How Toys Play An Important Role In A Four-Month-Old’s Development?
It’s vital for parents and caregivers to give children a range of age-appropriate toys that can support their learning and development. The following infographic presents how playing with toys can benefit four-month-old babies. Take a moment to read it and remember that the most valuable toys often allow children to use their imagination and create a new world. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
1. Important Milestones: Your Baby By Four Months; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
2. Important Milestones: Your Baby By Two Months; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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