Age-Appropriate Toys Every Grandparent Should Have on Hand

Play is more than fun—it’s how kids learn, grow, and connect with you.

Having a few thoughtfully selected toys at your home means you're always ready for a spontaneous visit, sleepover, or weekend playdate with your grandkids. But not all toys are created equal—what delights a 6-month-old will bore a 3-year-old. To make sure you’ve got the right options ready to go, we’ve rounded up the best age-appropriate toys for every stage of early childhood.

Let’s make playtime at Grandma and Grandpa’s house a joyful and developmentally rich experience!

0–6 Months: Sensory and Soothing

At this stage, babies are just beginning to explore the world around them. Toys should stimulate their senses—sight, sound, touch—while keeping safety front and center.

Best Toys:

• High-contrast soft books

• Chew safe toys

• Crinkly fabric toys/books

• Soft rattles

• Activity mats for tummy time

• Mirrors (baby-safe)

  
  

Grandparent Tip: Keep it simple. One or two stimulating toys at a time is enough for this age. Babies tire quickly!

6–12 Months: Movement and Exploration

This is a time of rapid change—sitting, crawling, and maybe even standing! Toys that encourage movement and cause-and-effect are ideal.

Best Toys:

• Stacking rings or cups

• Activity cubes

• Pop-up toys

• Teething rings

• Musical toys (like xylophones or baby drums)

• Rolling toys they can chase

• Bouncer

  
  

Grandparent Tip: Babies are learning through repetition. Don't worry if they want to do the same thing again and again!

12–24 Months: Independence and Imitation

Now that your grandchild is on the move, they’re exploring the world with growing independence. They love to mimic adults and try things for themselves.

Best Toys:

• Push or pull toys (like toy vacuums or shopping carts)

• Shape sorters

• Chunky puzzles

• Simple ride-on toys. This one is also great for outdoors of basements

• Board books with flaps

• Pretend play items (play kitchen tools, dolls)

• Magnetic drawing and this one

  
  

Grandparent Tip: This is a great age to introduce simple toy storage bins or baskets, encouraging cleanup as part of play.

2–3 Years: Imagination and Language

Toddlers are mastering words, concepts, and emotions. They love role-playing and storytelling—making this a fun age to get creative.

Best Toys:

• Dress-up clothes and props

• Toy animals or figurines

• Simple art supplies (crayons, stamps, washable markers)

• Blocks and Duplo bricks

• Toy trains or vehicles

• Picture books and storybooks (Our list of favorites coming soon!)

• Play-doh and accessories

  
  

Grandparent Tip: Join in the play! Pretending with your grandchild helps build emotional connection and language development.

3–5 Years: Creativity and Problem Solving

Preschoolers are ready for more complex play. They can follow directions, solve problems, and use their imaginations in big ways.

Best Toys:

• Magnetic tiles or wooden blocks

• Basic board games (like Candy Land or Memory)

• Simple craft kits

• Hot Wheels and tracks

• Puzzles (12–24 pieces)

• Baby dolls and strollers

• Toddler friendly sports equipment

  
  

Grandparent Tip: Try setting up a rotating “play station” in your home—a small area with a themed toy or activity that changes weekly or monthly.

Bonus: Classic Toys That Span Ages

Some toys never go out of style and appeal to a wide age range:

• Wooden blocks

• A small chalkboard or whiteboard

• Stuffed animals

• Bookshelves with a rotating book selection

• Play tunnel or indoor tent

• Sensory bins (filled with dry rice, pom-poms, or safe kitchen tools)

  
  

Safety Reminders for Grandparents

• Always check age recommendations on packaging.

• Avoid small parts for kids under 3 (choking hazard).

• Inspect older toys for wear and tear (loose buttons, splintering wood).

• Wash and sanitize baby toys regularly—especially teething items.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Playtime at your house isn’t just a way to pass the time—it’s where some of the most meaningful memories are made. By choosing toys that match your grandchild’s stage of development, you’re not only entertaining them—you’re helping them grow in confidence, coordination, and creativity.

At Granny Academy, we help modern grandparents show up with confidence, care, and joy. Need help building a toy chest that works for your grandchild’s age range? We’re just a message away.