Good Toys/books/activities for 8 Month Old Development and Learning

Read to her as much as possible. She'll learn more by playing with you and listening to you talk. She doesn't need special toys. She's better off with "open-function" toys that she can use for anything instead of a toy that specifically do one thing. And I know it can be a head ache, but banging on things is great fun. And playing with cups! Really, the best way to keep her stimulated and "learning to her full potential" is to be a parent, not leave her with toys to play with :)

As a former teacher, mother of six, and grandmother of 11, my recommendation to you is just read to your daughter, talk to her about everything around you, show her things and say the names of things everywhere you go, encourage her to roll a ball back and forth to you, and interact with her as much as possible. Blocks, noise/music-making toys, a dolly, some dishes and play food, board books, a ball she can hold with two hands, wooden puzzles with a few pieces, and a rolling toy, such as a solid car or truck, are all good choices for her. She might enjoy something that requires her to push buttons and things pop up too. Check yard sales and thrift stores in order to find things at reasonable prices......have fun.

I ditto Karen's comments about Discovery Toys. It is just what you are looking for! As consultants our jobs are to help busy parents just like you! Our home parties bring the store, child development classes and fun all rolled into one to you. As a hostess, you not only are up on the date on the best toys for children of all ages but learn great parenting tips AND, you earn free toys just in time for the holidays! Definately worth checking out!

J. Pillsbury www.toyladyjanet.com

My son loved his musical table at that age too. I also really hope you'll check out my Discovery Toys website. All of our products are about helping your child develop and learn through play. A few of my favorites for someone her age:

Go Go Caterpillar: http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esuite/control/product?P...

Measure Up Cups: http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esuite/control/product?P...

Wiggle Jingle & Roll: http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esuite/control/product?P...

Sounds Like Learning (a great CD): http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esuite/control/product?P...

Rattle & Roll: http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esuite/control/product?P...

Animal Lullabies Puppet, Book + CD (available separately or as a set): http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esuite/control/product?P...

Story Stacker: http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esuite/control/product?P...

If you have any questions, please let me know! I truly love these toys and it makes me really happy to help a parent find the perfect toys for their child.

K.
http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/karenchao

Reading to her (if she'll sit still), limiting or abolishing TV time, talking to her, and giving her a safe place to explore are the most important things you can do for a child that age. You sound like you are a loving and conscientious parent, so you are most likely providing her the best environment she needs without even realizing it. Don't get too caught up in which toy will promote her development the best; kids have a way of doing what they need to do when they need to do it regardless of what we think is best. Remember, the entire world is new to her, so letting her explore what is around her is a learning experience in itself. The best part about this age is that you get to just watch them discover things on their own - and how excited they get about stacking Tupperware bowls. Enjoy her and kiss those little cheeks!

Blocks, cups, books, soft dolls, and things that make music or noise. At that age my daughter loved her little musical table that she could pull up and stand at while playing. My son enjoyed pulling things out of the cupboard when he was 8-10 months old. Just have things that she can explore with.

My son has always loved books and storytime. He's now 20 months old and "reads" to himself regularly. He also loves music and singing, which you can pretty much fit in at any time (and is a GREAT distraction while changing a diaper!) Also, blocks and stacking toys are good to have around, shape sorters, and that kind of thing—great for small motor skills and analytical thinking. We also got a riding toy at around 8-10 months that helped my son get more mobile.