Our Story

Parents helping parents find the perfect toys for every stage of childhood

Who We Are

Baby Toys Australia was born from late-night feeding sessions, countless hours researching developmental milestones, and the overwhelming experience of walking into a toy store for the first time as new parents. We remember standing in those aisles, surrounded by thousands of colourful options, wondering which toys would actually help our babies grow, learn, and thrive.

We're a small team of Australian parents, early childhood educators, and child development enthusiasts based across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. What unites us is a shared passion for understanding how play shapes young minds and a commitment to cutting through the marketing noise to find toys that genuinely make a difference in children's lives.

Our journey began when several of us connected through local parenting groups, swapping recommendations about which teethers actually soothed sore gums, which rattles captured newborn attention, and which activity centres kept curious crawlers engaged. We noticed that the best insights came not from flashy advertisements but from real parents who had tested products through sleepless nights, messy mealtimes, and endless tummy time sessions.

Our Mission

At Baby Toys Australia, we believe that every child deserves access to safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate toys. Our mission is to be the trusted resource Australian families turn to when making these important decisions. We understand that for many parents, especially first-timers, the world of baby toys can feel overwhelming. Terms like "sensory stimulation," "fine motor development," and "cause-and-effect learning" might sound impressive on packaging, but what do they really mean for your baby?

That's where we come in. We translate complex child development research into practical, easy-to-understand guidance. We test toys with our own children, observe how babies at different developmental stages interact with various products, and share honest insights about what works and what doesn't. We pay attention to details that matter: Is the rattle too heavy for tiny hands? Does the activity gym hold up after months of use? Are those claimed "educational benefits" backed by genuine developmental science?

We also recognise that Australian families have unique needs. We consider factors like local safety standards (AS/NZS ISO 8124), shipping times and costs within Australia, and the specific challenges of our climate – because yes, some toys fare better in our harsh sun than others. We prioritise products readily available through trusted Australian retailers, including Amazon Australia, to ensure you can shop with confidence.

What We Believe

Play is the language of childhood. Through play, babies learn to explore their world, understand cause and effect, develop motor skills, and build emotional connections. The right toy at the right time can spark curiosity, encourage movement, and create precious moments of connection between parents and children.

We believe in quality over quantity. A handful of thoughtfully chosen toys will serve your child better than a room overflowing with plastic gadgets. We advocate for open-ended toys that grow with your child, sustainable materials where possible, and items built to withstand the enthusiastic treatment only a toddler can provide.

Safety is non-negotiable. Every toy we recommend meets or exceeds Australian safety standards. We look for certified products, check for small parts, assess materials for potential hazards, and stay updated on recalls. Your child's safety is our first priority, always.

Meet Our Team

Behind Baby Toys Australia is a dedicated group of parents who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to our work.

SJ

Sarah Johnson

Founder & Lead Editor

Mum of two based in Melbourne. Former early childhood educator with 8 years of experience. Passionate about Montessori principles and sensory play.

MC

Michael Chen

Content & Research

Dad of one in Sydney. Background in child psychology research. Loves exploring how play supports cognitive development and problem-solving skills.

EW

Emma Wilson

Safety & Standards Specialist

Mum of three in Brisbane. Previously worked in product safety compliance. Ensures every recommendation meets Australian safety standards.

Our Promise to You

We promise to remain honest, thorough, and genuinely helpful. We won't recommend products we wouldn't give to our own children. We'll continue researching, testing, and updating our content as new information becomes available. And we'll always prioritise your family's needs over commercial interests.

Thank you for trusting Baby Toys Australia on your parenting journey. Whether you're preparing for your first baby, searching for the perfect birthday gift, or simply exploring ways to support your child's development, we're here to help. Feel free to reach out with questions – we love hearing from fellow parents.

Here's to happy, healthy play! 🧸