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Baby rattle facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

A baby rattle is a special toy made just for babies. It's a type of rattle that makes sounds when shaken. People have used rattles for babies for a very long time, even in ancient times! Experts who study how children grow believe rattles are super helpful. They can make babies better at using their hands and eyes together. This happens because the rattle stimulates their senses, like hearing and sight.

16th and 17th century toy rattles
16th and 17th century toy rattles.
Walraversijde50
Cot and rattle, c. 1465, at Walraversijde

What Are Baby Rattles?

Baby rattles are designed to entertain and help babies learn. They are usually small enough for tiny hands to hold. When a baby shakes a rattle, it makes a sound. This sound can be a gentle jingle, a soft clatter, or even a dull thud, depending on what the rattle is made from.

How Rattles Help Babies Grow

Rattles offer lots of fun and learning for infants. Babies love the sounds they produce. They also enjoy following the path of the rattle with their eyes as it moves. This helps them develop their vision and focus. Trying to grab and hold the rattle gives babies a sense of discovery and helps them improve their hand-eye coordination. It's like a mini-adventure for their senses!

Types of Rattles Today

Modern rattles come in many different materials. You can find them made of wood, plastic, or soft cloth. Many rattles are brightly colored to catch a baby's attention. They often come in fun shapes, like animals or flowers.

  • Wooden rattles usually make a softer, duller sound.
  • Plastic rattles can make louder jingling or bell-like sounds.
  • Cloth rattles are often very soft and safe for babies to chew on.

Rattles That Are Also Teethers

Many rattles have a second important job: they can also be teethers! As babies grow, their teeth start to come in, which can be uncomfortable. These special rattles have textured surfaces that are gentle on a baby's gums. Chewing on them provides soothing relief and also gives babies the oral stimulation they need during this time.


See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Sonajero para niños

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Baby rattle Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.