Every baby's first toy is a rattle. But why? Just a typical gift, cute to see a baby holding one or is there actual educational value to ensure your baby NEEDS to have a baby rattle?
As a mom and certified educator, I want to share a few reasons why there are benefits and differences of various toy rattles. I'll also share some educational insights that are quick and to the point so multi-tasking moms like me can be a mom-boss (or dad-boss) while making sure your baby is the smartest baby on the block!
1. A baby rattle is a hands-on toy. Meaning, babies have to use their hands to play with it. Have you heard of kinesthetic learners? Some people's learning style is dominantly kinesthetic and for others, a dominant learning style is auditory or visual. As babies are learning, they are being exposed to all three styles: kinesthetic, auditory and visual. A baby rattle addresses all three! A baby can explore learning by looking at and listening to a baby rattle. For newborns, there are rattles that are black and white, since those are the first colors they see. I'll include a few idea below. As babies get a little older, you have more options. I had a container of rattles, mainly because it was a great deal for what was included. I love music and these rattles looked like various instruments. Most rattles have the noise makers inside of it, but it is a bonus to have some attachments that spark curiosity.
2. Can you believe that rattles can address the idea of cause and effect? When you shake a rattle (cause) it will make a rattling noise (effect). As you model how to shake the rattle, allow your baby to watch and listen. You can even say things like, "Look what happens when we shake the rattle!" "Listen to the noise we make when we shake the rattle." "If I shake the rattle, what will happen?" Your baby of course isn't going to answer, but the idea of language and changing voice inflections with statements and questions will engage your baby with this simple toy. You can talk like this with your newborn until they are one or even beyond that!
3. A baby rattle is a simple toy to bond over. As you teach your baby how to shake a rattle, it is okay to hold your baby's hand and gently shake the rattle together. As your baby has more practice with the rattle, she will eventually hold the rattle or try to grab it on her own. As my baby began to independently hold her rattles, I would help her shake it to understand what it does.
4. Now, as a one year old, she still plays with rattles. She understands how to pick them up, how to shake them, and it's a great toy for pulling out of and putting inside a container.
5. Rattles are a great toy for on-the-go. Some have simple attachments for strollers and car seats. They easily fit in the diaper bag. And best of all, they don't require any batteries or charging!
Who knew there could be so many benefits from giving your baby a rattle?
The links below are some rattles I have for my own baby.
Maraca Rattles by Fisher Price - good for chewing, shaking and making music!
Container of Rattles by iPlay, iLearn - Fun way to introduce musical instruments and great deal!
Container of Rattles by GizmoVine - Great variety of rattles that address different sensory modes!
World of Eric Carle Caterpillar Rattle by Kids Preferred - Fun rattle to bring your baby books to life!
