Rocking Toys for Baby

The Wonder of Rocking

Rocking toys rock. Not only back and forth, but in colloquial terms - like, they rock, baby. Over the years countless toys have been produced with the sole idea (after making money) of providing entertainment for a child. Battery operated toys, lights that flash, sounds that are emitted when buttons are pressed, real engine noises - you name it - have all been created and sold in a bid to make little ones happy. But, have you ever noticed that the things that little children really enjoy are the boxes those toys came in and their rocking horse?

What is it that makes rocking toys so wonderful? Well, if you think about it for a minute, you'll remember that when your baby cries, you pick him up, hold him close and...right...you rock him. And then what happens? He quiets down. Rocking is a natural movement for parents and a soothing one for little babies and small children. That's why rocking toys for babies are a great way to entertain and quiet a little one.

Centuries of Popularity

Wooden rocking toys have been around for centuries, especially rocking horses. They have stood the test of time and are still very much a part of "baby culture" to this day. They're simple, they only require a child to make them work, and they're relatively safe. These days, with all of the safety standards and requirements out there, rocking toys are available in any number of shapes and models, from the familiar horse to double-rockers with bucket seats for little tiny tots to rock back and forth. Rocking toys come in a whole barnyard full of animal shapes, besides horses. There are ducks, hens, cows, and sheep, as well as hippos, and elephants for children who like more exotic animals. If animals aren't your child's favorite thing, then rocking motorcycles and cars, fire engines, and trains are also available. You can purchase them as rocking toys or as riding toys.

Western Riders from Days Gone By

Rocking horses may be made of plastic or wood. Many years ago, hard plastic rocking horses in Western gear were very popular. They had a western saddle, bridle, long mane and tale - they were either palomino or black and kids who had them were the envy of the neighborhood. In those days, children from the ages of four through eight were the primary riders. Now that manufacturers have done more to make rocking toys safer, toddlers and preschoolers younger than four can enjoy the fun of rocking toys. Rocking toys serve as learning toys, too. Older toddlers gain a sense of balance and control from the need to stay on the rocker. Have you ever noticed how fast they get going once their confidence level rises as they figure out how to stay on the horse's back?

Rocking Horses as an Art Form

Wooden rocking horses are often a work of art. You can find them made of high quality wood, handcrafted, with manes and tails that look and feel real. Real leather bridles, stirrups, and high back saddles accommodate the young rider. These solid wood rocking horses are both classic and timeless, and when your child has outgrown it, the rocking horse would probably look stunning as a fixture in your living room. They quickly become heirloom pieces because of their excellent construction and craftsmanship. Another type of rocking horse that has the potential to be a great décor piece (once she's through with it) is the Carousel horse. They are constructed like the horses on a carousel, with a wide, high saddle and a pole coming out of the center. These rocking horses may also find their way to another generation, as well as serve as a serious décor piece en route to the next child.

Plush rocking horses are softer, cuter, and a great alternative for tender little tushies. Ponies, Clydesdales and jumpers with fuzzy bodies and backs make for a comfy ride for your little equestrian. Rather than bridles and reins, these rocking toys have dowels coming out of the sides of their heads for little hands to hang onto. Safe, comfortable and durable, plush rocking toys give your toddler hours of pleasure and fun.