It happens fast. One day, you’re rocking a tiny newborn—and the next, you’ve got a curious, wobbly toddler pulling every book off the shelf and stuffing crayons into their mouth.
At The Playful Peacock, we know the first year brings huge changes. Your 1-year-old is building the foundation for everything—from walking and talking to thinking, feeling, and connecting. And the toys you offer can support those milestones in gentle, meaningful ways.
In this post, we’re sharing:
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What’s happening developmentally at age one
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What to look for in toys for this age
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Our top toy recommendations (all beautifully made, safe, and long-lasting)
Let’s dive in, mama.
What’s Going On At Age One?
By their first birthday, most toddlers are:
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Pulling to stand and cruising along furniture
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Picking up small objects using a pincer grasp
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Putting everything in their mouths (hello, teething!)
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Repeating actions over and over to learn cause and effect
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Starting to say simple words like “mama” or “ball”
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Looking for comfort, security, and gentle exploration
This is a time of sensory discovery, fine motor growth, and emotional connection—all through play.
What Makes a Great Toy for 1-Year-Olds?
When choosing toys for this age, we recommend:
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Safe, natural materials (because it’s going in their mouth)
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Simple designs that leave space for imagination
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Tactile variety: textures, sounds, movement
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Developmental support: think grasping, stacking, banging, pulling
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Longevity: toys that grow with them beyond the toddler stage
Let’s talk favourites!
The Playful Peacock's Top Toys for 1-Year Olds
Here are our age-appropriate, parent-loved picks from brands we trust:
🎵 Baby Tambú Steel Tongue Drum
Shop Tambú Drums →
This soothing, melodic drum is one of our favourite introductions to music. There’s no wrong way to play—it sounds beautiful no matter where little hands land. Great for sensory exploration and co-play with parents or caregivers.
🧁 Tara Treasures Felt Cupcakes & Lollies
Shop Tara Treasures →
Soft, safe, and irresistibly adorable, these felt treats are perfect for early pretend play. Toddlers love carrying them, stacking them, and offering “snacks” to everyone in the house.
🐢 Grimm’s Pull-Along Toys
Shop Grimm’s →
As your little one begins to walk (or speed-crawl!), Grimm’s pull-along toys are the perfect companion. Made from smooth, natural wood and finished in beautiful rainbow colours, these whimsical animals and vehicles follow right behind with a gentle tug.
🚜 Fagus Mini Vehicles
Shop Fagus Vehicles →
Built to last, these smooth-rolling wooden vehicles are perfect for pushing, loading, and driving across every surface in your home. They support gross motor movement and early cause-and-effect learning—all while being fun to zoom.
🌈 Sarah’s Silks Mini Playsilks
Shop Playsilks →
Lightweight and endlessly versatile, playsilks can become a dancing ribbon, a cuddle cloth, or a hiding spot for peekaboo. These are easy for young toddlers to grab and wave—great for sensory and gross motor play.
🍑 Dough Parlour Play Dough (With Supervision)
Explore Dough Parlour →
While 1-year-olds may not be sculpting shapes yet, they do love the squish! These food-grade, scented doughs are perfect for short, supervised sensory play sessions. Just make sure they don’t sneak a bite.
What Else to Keep in Mind
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Rotate toys weekly to keep things fresh without overwhelm.
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Observe your child—what do they naturally go back to?
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Less is more. A few open-ended pieces are better than a crowded shelf.
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Your attention is the best toy. These products are tools—but your love, presence, and enthusiasm bring them to life.
Looking for a First Birthday Gift?
We’ve got you covered. Whether you want something heirloom-worthy or just beautifully fun, we’ve curated gifts that grow with your child and can be enjoyed for years.
You’re doing such an amazing job navigating year one. We’re cheering you on every wobbly step of the way.