Supporting Your Baby’s First Milestones Naturally
In the first three months of life, babies experience rapid growth, refining their sensory awareness, reflexes, and early motor skills. Choosing the best gift for infants means selecting toys that nurture these early developmental stages while being safe, sustainable, and engaging. 
Early Visual & Sensory Exploration (0-6 Weeks)
Newborns are drawn to high-contrast patterns as their vision develops. Black-and-white Montessori flashcards or a sustainably made wooden mobile with bold shapes help strengthen their eye muscles and focus. Signs of readiness include babies staring at objects longer or following movement with their eyes. If a baby struggles to track objects, more visual stimulation may help!
Developing Grasp Reflex (6-10 Weeks)
At this stage, babies start practicing their grip. A soft, eco-friendly wooden rattle is a perfect first toy, encouraging them to grasp, shake, and explore. Look for a toy with smooth, natural materials that are safe for teething. If a baby isn’t attempting to grasp objects by this time, offering different textures may encourage exploration.
Hand-to-Mouth Coordination (10-12 Weeks)
Bringing objects to their mouth is a crucial milestone, paving the way for self-soothing and feeding skills. A sustainable silicone or wooden teether supports this development while introducing babies to natural materials. Parents may notice increased drooling or hand-sucking—clear signs of readiness! If these behaviors are absent, providing easy-to-hold teethers can help.
A Montessori-Approved Pick from Cubo Toys
For a thoughtfully designed first toy, check out our Cubo Montessori Box Smash Kit at Cubo Toys. It features pegs that have high contrast white and black colors that you can arrange and rearrange. Crafted from sustainably sourced wood, it’s perfect for little hands and developing coordination—while being gentle on the planet. 
The Joy of Simple, Sustainable Play
The best gift for infants isn’t flashy or overwhelming. Babies thrive on simple, natural materials that engage their senses at their own pace. By selecting Montessori-inspired toys, you’re fostering independent exploration while making an eco-conscious choice for the future.
Need more info on baby development? Here’s a great resource from Zero to Three that dives into key milestones.
Want more tips on how to choose Montessori toys for every stage? Check out the next stage in our age and stage guide. 
