Baby toys market to grow
Based on their developmental stage, toddlers typically favor particular types of toys. Babies’ general development is aided by the shape, color, texture, taste, and sound stimulation provided by baby toys. Toys that are appropriate for toddlers and preschoolers should be age-appropriate, not just safe. Many appropriate and safe playthings are readily available for free in most homes.
Toys suitable to age
A baby can only really do observation for the first three months of their life. They notice things best when they are bright and have bold patterns because their vision is still hazy. Babies enjoy following individuals with their eyes as they gaze at them. They typically favor faces and vibrant colors. Babies are able to reach, explore their hands and feet, lift their heads, swivel their heads in the direction of sounds, put objects in their mouths, and do so much more!
Most infants first become aware of their hands between two and three months of age. Grasping, holding, and shaking objects turns out to be a lot of fun. The development of gross motor abilities begins here. Toy introductions may also be a nice idea at this time. The baby is helped by toys for this age group to comprehend that their bodily movements (moving their hands) have an impact on the environment (the toy makes noise). They currently require a lot of toys that encourage interaction in many ways, such as the following: They might crinkle or squeak, have a nubby feel, or be soft and cuddly. Infants frequently chew toys; textured toys might ease teething discomfort.
Toddlers will adore toys that let them whack a ball with a hammer, as well as ones that play music or display characters. When a baby hits a button, certain high-tech toys designed for this age will name a letter, shape, or number. Your baby is still too young at this age to learn their ABCs, but they will enjoy playing with these toys and learning new words.
How to determine if a child enjoys a toy
Many parents will tell you that their children had different personalities before they were even born. It is real. Contrary to what many people traditionally thought, infants and young children don’t start out as blank slates. Even in infancy, you can notice that they have preferences for particular items and activities.
Keep a close eye on your baby’s reactions whenever you introduce a new toy or activity. You can get a feel of the things that your kid appreciates as an individual by paying attention to how they react. If your baby likes a toy at this age, they will concentrate on it and reach for it.
Toy trends during the Pandemic for older kids
New-age creators
In 2022, there will be an increase in toys that encourage children to create and share their own material, whether it be artwork or movies displaying their skills. These toys will allow children to employ their imaginations and create unique play experiences. These toys include role-playing games, pretend food and clothing, and building sets that encourage aspiring content producers. It’s also a trend that encourages intergenerational play and makes use of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) abilities to enable children and parents to play, create, and make memories together.
Toys that offer escapism
When you’re leaving for a family vacation after spending the last two years holed up at home, or when you’re just trying to unwind, you might want to use one of the latest devices that was designed with escape in mind. This group of playthings features inventive games and puzzles with travel and international themes, as well as portable games and toys made specifically for transport on the go. There will always be a place for toys and games in the lives of kids and “kidults,” according to the research. Players are being drawn into the digital realm by this movement, expanding their play to include such metaverse staples as NFTs, AR/VR, and internet-connected toys and video games.
Sensory toys
ASMR, which has garnered massive popularity on social media sites, has been associated with extracting warm, fuzzy moments of zen from commonplace events as a result of the rise of viral videos on sites like TikTok. Despite the fact that social media is fueling this trend, it is physically based, and in 2022, research predicts an increase in the number of toys that excite the senses. Devices that help kids deal with their feelings are all the rage right now, from fidget spinners to electronic toys that let kids express their emotions.
Environmentally friendly
These days, sales and popularity are rising for goods that speak to customers across all industries about issues like sustainability, the protection of endangered species, social justice issues, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Toys have evolved into effective instruments for involving children in important topics as we work together to create a happier, healthier future as this trend continues to rise quickly. Toys that not only use more environmentally friendly materials but also place a strong emphasis on educating children how to be better global citizens will proliferate in 2022.
Merging entertainment
More studios are opting for hybrid releases throughout much of 2021, suggesting that the epidemic is still having an effect on traditional viewing habits. But even though the “only in theaters” approach of film distribution is making a comeback, we believe non-linear or hybrid brands (like Disney+, Netflix, HBOMax, YouTube, and more with more debuts) will continue to dominate the toy aisles. More than that, toy industry influencers are expanding their reach outside their existing communities to forge new alliances and give licensees direct access to their followers.
Conclusion
Babies essentially don’t need advanced toys. They’ll be able to enjoy toys that engage their senses and are interactive. Parents however need to be cautious about safety. It is crucial to keep in mind that normal wear and tear can turn a toy that was previously safe into a danger. Toys should be regularly inspected by adults to ensure they are in good condition.
By Harshal Sonawane
