Baby Sensory Toys

The Connection Between Sensory Play and Brain Growth

Babies build their understanding of the world through movement, sound, and touch. These sensory experiences are the foundation for memory, focus, and problem-solving.

Research supports the value of early learning through play, especially with age-appropriate development toys that support grasping, reaching, and cause-and-effect thinking. Activities like tummy time help develop fine motor skills, even in very young kids, who are still exploring through simple motions.

Why Families Love Sensory Toys for Early Learning

Parents often notice how much calm and focus a well-chosen activity toy can bring. The right sensory support encourages small but important developmental leaps during play.

These are some of the key reasons families keep sensory toys close at hand:

• Motor skill development: From shaking to stacking, each action helps build strength, control, and coordination in growing hands.
• Sensory regulation: Different textures and sounds offer gentle stimulation that can soothe or energise, depending on what your tot needs.
• Emotional comfort: Familiar toys create a sense of security, helping little ones settle during rest or transitions.
• Curiosity and focus: Simple cause-and-effect features encourage problem-solving and sustained attention.

Best Age to Start Sensory Toy Play

Sensory play can begin from birth using soft baby toys with gentle textures or high-contrast patterns. Newborns often respond well to black & white visuals that support early focus and tracking.

As your baby grows, reaching, mouthing, and interactive movement become more common. By the time your little one is a year old, they’re often ready for toys that encourage coordination and cause-and-effect learning. All our toys are designed to match these stages safely and comfortably.

How to Choose the Right Sensory Toys

With so many options out there, picking the right sensory toy can feel a bit overwhelming. We keep it simple by curating toys that support safe, meaningful play from birth through toddlerhood.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing sensory toys:

• Age-appropriateness: Toys should match your baby’s stage of development to support progress without frustration.
• Textures and grip: Varied surfaces help stimulate touch and support fine motor growth.
• Colour and contrast: High-contrast or soft, neutral tones can support visual engagement based on age.
• Sound quality: Gentle rattles or chimes offer calm, rhythmic stimulation without being overstimulating.
• Safety standards: We design and source every toy to meet Australian Safety Standards and stand up to daily play.

Our Favourite Sensory Toys at HipKids

Every baby engages with the world in their own way, so we offer different types of sensory toys that support a range of developmental needs. From toys that invite eye tracking to those that encourage reaching, shaking, or mouthing, each one is designed with purpose.

Visual

Movement, shape, and colour all play a part in how babies start to process what they see. Toys like puzzles, spinners, and a colourful stacker can support early visual tracking.

Our range also includes books, including the much-loved soft book, balance bikes, pedal cars, and trikes that bring sight and motion together.

Tactile

Tactile play helps babies learn through grip, squeeze, and stretch. Textured toys like a sensory ball, shaker, or our plush soft toys support early hand control and sensory feedback.

We also stock blocks, push and pull toys, padded play mats, and active favourites like ball pits, baby walkers, and beach toys.

Auditory

Sound helps babies connect action with response, like shaking or tapping to make noise. Our musical toys are gentle on little ears and great for focus and calm.

As babies grow, they’ll love experimenting with rhythm using beginner-friendly musical instruments like drums, maracas, or tambourines.

Olfactory

Scented toys can offer comfort, especially during teething when babies seek soothing sensory input. Some of our teether options are made from lightly scented, food-grade silicone.

These are easy to grip, safe to chew, and help introduce smell in a gentle, calming way.

Creating a Calm and Fun Sensory Space for Your Baby

A well-thought-out space can make sensory play feel natural and inviting. It doesn’t have to be big—just safe, soft, and filled with simple things that spark your baby’s curiosity.

Here are a few easy ways to set up a sensory-friendly spot at home:

• Lay down one of our padded play mats to give your baby a soft, stable surface for rolling, crawling, or tummy time.
• Use soft lighting or natural daylight to reduce overstimulation and help with focus.
• Add a mix of textures and sounds with toys like a sensory ball, shaker, or plush soft toys.
• Rotate items weekly to keep things fresh without needing a big collection.
• Choose a quiet corner where your baby can play without too much background noise.

See More Toys That Support Play and Learning

Browse more developmental toys your child will love—from everyday favourites to special pieces that grow with them. Our range includes wooden toys, play gyms, doll prams, and scooters, all made with the same care and attention we put into every design.

If you’re shopping for a gift, take a look at our birthday, Christmas or Easter gift set options or start building your wishlist for upcoming milestones. At HipKids, we’re committed to quality toys that support learning, imagination, and years of play.