DIY Toys
DIY Soft Sensory Toys (Age-Aware)
Fabric scraps, dried rice shakers for older toddlers, and wooden ring play — with choking-hazard notes.
Safety notes
- Never give small parts, beads, buttons, or loose fill to infants.
- Rice/bean shakers are for ages 3+ or only if triple-secured and supervised — when unsure, skip fillers.
- Supervise all DIY toys; inspect for loose seams every wash.
Homemade toys can be beautiful and cheap — safety first, always.
Crinkle cloth (great for younger babies)
Sew two soft organic cotton squares with a clean piece of unscented parchment or craft crinkle paper inside. Round the corners. No buttons. Size larger than a choke tube. Wash before first use.
Knotted cloth teether strip
A clean, dampened organic washcloth knotted loosely (and supervised) is a classic fridge teether alternative. Replace when frayed.
What to skip for infants
Pom-poms, beads, googly eyes, long ribbons, and anything that can detach. If it can fit through a toilet-paper tube, it is too small.
Older toddler shakers (3+)
Only if you can seal containers permanently (strong glue + tape) and supervise. Many families simply prefer wooden instruments from thrift stores instead.