Baby Think Lab

When I was a new parent, I honestly had no idea what STEM activities for infants really meant or why STEM toys for babies and toddlers were suddenly becoming so popular for toddlers and preschoolers. Because I’ve always believed in giving my little ones the best opportunities to learn right from age 0, I decided to dig in to see what the craze was about. Initially, it was a bit confusing — I kept coming across newer terms like STEAM and STREAM — but eventually I was able to f

A s a mom who has seen both a baby and a preschooler grow through play, I’ve tested everything — from flashing plastic walkers to timeless wooden blocks. Here’s what I’ve learned (and what research says) about how material choice affects your baby’s brain, senses, and environment. Table of Contents How the Toy’s Material Impacts Development The Wooden Toy Advantage The Plastic Toy Perspective What the Research Says Best Wooden Toy Brands Best Plastic Toy Brands Final Verdict

If you’ve seen colorful baby water mats all over social media or baby stores, you might be wondering — are they really worth the hype?...

Finding the perfect baby toy subscription box can be overwhelming. Between options like KiwiCo and Lovevery, parents want toys that spark...

If you’re shopping for magnetic tiles for kids in 2025, you’ve probably asked: Should I buy Magna-Tiles or Picasso Tiles?   Are Picasso Tiles compatible with Magna-Tiles? Why are Magna-Tiles so expensive? Both brands are hugely popular for open-ended, STEM-based play, but their differences in price, construction quality, and durability can make parents pause. This 2025 comparison breaks down safety, durability, magnetic strength, price per tile, and long-term play value—so yo

If you’re a new parent considering the Lovevery Charmer Play Kit for your 3–4-month-old, you’re probably wondering: Is it worth the $80 price tag? The truth is — it depends on your budget, your parenting style, and whether you’re comfortable sourcing individual toys yourself. While Lovevery subscription kits are beautifully curated and Montessori-aligned, many parents find they can create their own DIY Lovevery Play Kit  using Amazon dupes for less money. In this post, I’ll b

As a first-time mom, I knew I wanted to build a love of learning in my baby from the very beginning — but I didn’t realize just how...

At 3 to 6 months, your baby is soaking in the world around them — every smile, sound, and snuggle matters. You are your baby’s first and...

Jump To: 12 Ways to stimulate brain power naturally Freebie: Play ideas to include in wake-times (0-3 months) - a printable version...