The best toys and gifts for newborns and babies, from squishy books to sensory sets

<p>Buying for a baby this Christmas? These parent- and expert-approved gifts will delight little ones and make life easier for sleep-deprived grown-ups</p><p>• <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter/2025/may/01/best-eco-friendly-baby-products"><strong>The best eco-friendly baby products</strong></a></p><p>Let’s be honest, the best presents for newborns and young babies are the ones that make the parents’ lives easier in some way. I say this as someone who had a baby last December and has spent the months since getting to grips with what’s actually useful in the first year of a child’s life.</p><p>Blankets and cuddly toys are often go-to presents for little ones, and while they’re lovely gifts, there are lots of alternatives that new parents will be grateful for. This guide features all kinds of toys, books and gifts that I have tried and tested with my baby, as well as expert insights on how these items are beneficial for little ones. I’ve also included practical gifts, such as easy-to-clean playmats and zipped sleepsuits, that make nappy changes less fraught.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter/2025/oct/30/best-toys-gifts-newborns-babies">Continue reading...</a>