We chose the Vintage Musical Elephant Pull Toy as it only had a minimal amount of plastic, and we chose well. It’s the first toy our daughter engaged with and actually tried to grab. The ’soothing melody’ seems to soothe her, but doesn’t quite do the job for us parents.

Another soft toy (sigh) I’ll add that to the toy mountain. This one will be easy to spot as its bright orange. The toddler sees it: cue ‘Big & Small’ shrieks of delight….

One of a new range of toys from Silver Cross, this Rufus Rabbit pull-along toy is designed in a gorgeous vintage style and comes beautifully packaged. Once you’ve fought with the usual ties and fastenings to free it from the box you are left with this fabric bunny and his collection of miscellaneous velcroed, pull-apart vegetables in his pull-along cart.

This heatable duck from Farm Toys is so soft and cuddly, I couldn’t help giving it a cuddle the moment I opened it! And Rosemary was also very taken by its softness and cuddliness, but also noticed that it was very heavy (for a three-year-old). There were clear instructions on the tag, cook on full power for about 2 minutes and you’re set!

I can’t fault the staff at our local Build a Bear store, they were exceptional and made the morning a really fun experience for Flea. She loves her soft toy and so does her cousin. But at £50 apiece, I don’t think she loves it enough to make this value for money. Other experienced parents have told me the way to make Build a Bear Work is to give kids a price limit before you go into the store, and then let them spend it how they choose – so it’s possible to get a bear for £9.99 and an outfit for another £10 or so. And it helps if you buy something at Build a Bear with 2 feet, rather than 4!

The Imajo Organic Classic Softie Rag Doll is a lovely and soft organic rag doll which has become a firm favourite with my daughter – but at £18.95, I think you could find a cheaper rag doll with similar features. However, if organic and ethically sourced toys are for you, the Imajo Organic Classic Softie Rag Doll is a great investment, and perfect for a first doll.

The Happy Bugs Stacker is certainly a hit with Elodie. She tends to play with the bugs individually rather than with the stacker but I’m sure as she gets older and her skill level increases she will learn to play with the toy in the manner it was intended.

Even if you haven’t watched the Handy Manny show on TV, I think the Handy Manny soft tool box is a great unisex toy. It’s well made, and will help children learn the names and functions of different tools, and it’s also small enough for little ones to pick up and carry around with them. Although I will say I’m glad the tools are soft – as BG keeps trying to hit me with the hammer!

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced stocking filler or present for a young baby, this is a great option – bright, colourful and gorgeously tactile, and able to be used on prams, cots and baby gyms. A fab toy and I like toys that seem ‘educational’ not just cute.

I love the way this set brings the story to life. On more than one occasion I’ve seen Little S acting out the story on his own. He particularly enjoys saying, ‘chinny, chin, chin’ and acting out the part where the wolf goes down the chimney into the boiling water, although I’m not sure if that’s a good thing! My children have already had lots of enjoyment out of this toy. It would make a lovely gift for young
children but consider buying a proper book to go with it.

“Not another doll?” was my husband’s first response when Melanie the rag doll arrived in our house, but i was actually quite pleased as she was a welcome relief to the mountain of crying plastic dolls strewn across the play room. Melanie comes complete with pretty blond plaited pig tails, pink gingham pyjamas and a giant smile, she’s soft and very cuddly.

It’s cute. Simple as that, and little ones can’t help but like it. It came really well packaged in a beautiful presentation box, and we enjoyed being able to attach it everywhere and anywhere! Since we have had our Sleepytot, we have seen Sleepytots everywhere – they must be the must have comforter! It’s not surprising though. The Sleepytot comforter is lovely: beautifully made and comes in a fabulous little gift box. Top marks from us.

The Silver Cross Rufus Rabbit shape sorter is a lovely toy: it looks funky and definitely keeps BG’s attention. A great toy to grow with, and a perfect gift for new babies and toddlers.

A lovely, stylish and beautifully made toy that’s a perfect gift for children who are fond of animals. It’s a great toy for imaginative play, and we loved the attention to detail – the knitted blanket, the mouse’s clothes and even the little pillow are all just lovely.

Ella is thrilled with My Pal Violet and with the exception of the music options, I am very pleased with this product. My Pal Violet and My Pal Scout (the green version) are very popular and I would recommend My Pal Violet to any family and considering the cost (£15.99), it’s well worth it.

The Baby Whoozit seems to be a perfect toy for a small baby, and one that will probably keep being of interest for a good few months, perhaps even past the crawling stage. There’s lots to explore, it’s beautifully made and a fantastic price. We love it!

A good Christmas or birthday present for your own child, but if your budget is tight they might be a good suggestion to the grandparents!