Baby’s First Birthday Gift?

Pick toys that will foster his development. Since baby is probably learning to walk. “Finding toys to match a child’s physical skill is a good way to start,” says Kathleen Alfano, PhD, director of child research at Fisher-Price. “Choose something that helps with balance, like a push toy,”

Baby’s also becoming social, so get toys that encourage him to play with others, like balls or blocks. Other good ideas: board books that baby can read (or chew on!), musical toys, a dollhouse or figurines for pretend play. Just avoid anything that isn’t age-appropriate—believe it if it’s marked “Ages 3 and up.”