Gifts for a Baby

In the first year a baby is learning two things: that hands belong to them, and that the world makes sounds back.

So the useful gifts are small, light enough to hold, and make a noise when shaken. Nothing here needs batteries.

What to pick

Under six months, the play arch and a blanket. From six months, a rattle they can grip themselves — that is usually the first toy a baby chooses rather than receives.