Why Your Baby Needs Less Toys and More Snuggles

Hands up if you’ve ever found yourself scrolling at 1am, adding every “must-have” baby toy to cart because it might be the magic solution to get bub to stop crying / sleep longer / give you five minutes of peace?

Yep. We’ve all been there. The truth is, babyland these days is a bit of a circus. There’s a toy for every mood, milestone, and meltdown—rattles that light up, teethers that vibrate, crinkly books, sensory balls, play gyms that sing lullabies in three languages…

But here’s a little secret: your baby doesn’t need all that stuff. Not really. What they really need?

You.

Your voice, your warmth, your heartbeat. The rhythm of your breathing. The safety of your arms. The magic of skin-to-skin. The power of a snuggle.

The Overstimulation Struggle Is Real

Babies are brand new here. Everything is a first—first breeze, first sneeze, first weird house creak at 2am. Their little brains are working overtime just figuring out how to exist outside the womb. When we overload them with noisy toys and flashing lights and constant entertainment, it can honestly be… a bit much.

Sometimes we confuse stimulation with development. But guess what supports their development just as much (if not more)? Connection.

That quiet cuddle on the couch. The rhythm of a rocking chair. Your whispered “I love you’s.” Holding them close in a wrap as you go about your day. These are the moments where babies feel safest. Grounded. Regulated.

Less Stuff, More Presence

Now, don’t get us wrong—we love a good toy (and trust us, we stock some absolute beauties). But the truth is, babies don’t need a room full of toys to thrive. They don’t need every trending item on TikTok. What they crave is comfort. Familiarity. And that doesn’t come with a button or battery.

It comes with you.

And hey—less toys means less clutter. Less tidying. Less guilt about not using that one toy you spent $89.99 on that bub sniffed once and ignored forever. Simplicity can be so freeing.

So, When Are Toys Helpful?

Toys aren’t the bad guy here. In fact, the right toy, introduced at the right time, can be a beautiful tool to support bub’s development and curiosity.

Soft sensory toys, rattles, and grasping items are great for babies around 3–6 months when they’re starting to explore with their hands. Teething toys are lifesavers during the drool-and-gum phase. And simple stacking cups or shape sorters can support motor skills as they grow.

The key is to keep it simple and intentional. Rotate a few toys at a time, rather than offering everything at once. Let baby explore one or two items without overwhelm. And most importantly, stay present—because play is so much richer when shared with you.

If you’re looking for quality, well-loved toys, we’ve curated a small but mighty collection at Mod & Tod that’s gentle on the senses, baby-safe, and designed to complement—not compete with—connection time.

Snuggles Build Brains (And Bonding)

Did you know that every time you cuddle your baby, you’re literally helping their brain grow? Touch and affection release oxytocin—the love hormone—which supports bonding, reduces stress, and helps babies feel secure in the world.

It’s science-y and snuggly. Win-win.

So next time you’re feeling the pressure to buy “just one more thing” to entertain your little one, remember: you are enough. Your baby’s favourite place in the world isn’t the playmat or the activity cube. It’s you.

Let’s Embrace the Snuggle Era

We created Mod & Tod because we believe in essentials that support real life. The softest swaddles, the cosiest blankets, the cuddliest wraps—and yes, a thoughtful range of beautiful, baby-friendly toys—designed not to add more “stuff,” but to help you slow down and connect.

Because in the end, it’s not the toys they’ll remember.

It’s the way you held them when they needed you most.

🖤 Love this message? Share it with another mama who needs a gentle reminder that her presence is the most powerful thing she can offer.