Traveling with a baby can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to keeping them entertained. For babies between 8 and 12 months, the key is to choose toys that are engaging, portable, and safe for confined spaces like airplanes and cars. Here are some parent-approved toy recommendations to make your next trip a little easier!
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1. Soft Books with Textures
Soft fabric books with different textures, crinkle sounds, and bright colors are perfect for curious little hands. These are lightweight, easy to pack, and will keep your baby entertained without creating noise that could disturb other passengers. Check out the Melissa & Doug Soft Activity Baby Book - The Wonderful World of Peekaboo! here.
2. Interactive Baby Phone
Babies love copying adults, and an interactive baby phone with lights and sounds will keep them occupied. Choose one that has buttons to press, making it a great distraction during long travel times. Grab the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Phone here.
3. Teething Toys
At 8-12 months, many babies are teething, so bringing along a teething toy is always a good idea. Opt for something easy to hold and clean, like silicone teething rings or soft teething rattles. These can soothe your baby while providing a fun activity. Try the Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys for teething relief on the go here.
4. Busy Boards or Quiet Books
Busy boards or quiet books with zippers, buttons, and other interactive elements are perfect for engaging little hands and minds while traveling. These toys offer various textures and activities without taking up much space, and they can keep babies entertained for long periods. Check out the Montessori-Inspired Busy Board for travel-friendly fun here.
5. Activity Balls
Soft activity balls with textured surfaces, jingling sounds, or hidden mirrors are fantastic for encouraging sensory play. They're easy for babies to grab and roll, keeping them entertained without too much noise. Consider the Sassy Developmental Bumpy Ball for sensory exploration here.
6. Clip-On Toys
Clip-on toys, like those that attach to strollers or car seats, are great for traveling. Babies can enjoy pulling, shaking, and spinning them without the risk of dropping the toy and losing it during the trip. The Manhattan Toy Wimmer-Ferguson Clip-On Toy is perfect for on-the-go entertainment, available here.
7. Interactive Plush Toys
A small interactive plush toy that plays sounds or has buttons is perfect for entertaining your baby during travel. Look for options with multiple textures, hidden surprises, or built-in teething elements. The VTech Baby Lil' Critters Moosical Beads is a hit with babies and can be found here.
Bonus Tips for Traveling with Toys:
- Rotate the toys: To keep your baby interested, don’t give all the toys at once. Rotate them every 30 minutes to keep things fresh.
- Sanitize frequently: Travel can expose your baby’s toys to lots of germs. Bring wipes to sanitize toys, especially if they fall on airplane floors or get passed around.
- Don’t forget the snacks: While toys will help, sometimes a simple snack is the best distraction.
By choosing the right toys, you can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your little one. Safe travels!
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