Why Early Learning Toys Matter

The earliest years of a child's life are the most developmentally significant — and the toys they play with during this time have a real impact on how they learn, move, communicate, and connect with the world around them. Mentari's Early Learning collection is designed to support every key developmental milestone from 6 months through to preschool age, through hands-on, screen-free play that rewards curiosity and builds confidence.

The collection spans everything from the 6 Months Garden Playtime Set and Toddler Bundle for the youngest explorers, through to the Bambino Activity Walker and Toddler Activity Cube for newly mobile toddlers, and on to the Alphabet Spelling BlocksWoodland Music Set, and Puzzle Bundle for growing preschoolers. Every piece is designed in London, ASTM certified, and made from sustainably sourced wood with non-toxic paints.

Not sure where to start? Browse by age using our Shop by Age navigation, or explore our curated Garden Playtime Sets— available for 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months — each one thoughtfully curated for exactly the right developmental stage. Free shipping on all orders over $75.

FAQ

Questions and Answers

What age are early learning toys suitable for?

The Mentari Early Learning collection spans from 6 months through to preschool age (4-5 years). The 6 Months Garden Playtime Set and 12 Months Garden Playtime Set are curated specifically for younger babies, while the Alphabet Spelling Blocks and Puzzle Bundle are better suited to ages 3 and up. Each product page shows the recommended age range.

What's the best early learning toy for a 6-month-old?

At 6 months, babies are developing their senses, grip, and early cause-and-effect understanding. The 6 Months Garden Playtime Set is curated specifically for this stage, combining tactile, visual, and auditory stimulation through hands-on wooden play. For more options, browse our 0-12 Months collection.

What's the best early learning toy for a 1-year-old?

At 12 months, children are starting to pull themselves up, take first steps, and explore with increasing independence. The Bambino Activity Walker and Bambino Block Trolley both support this stage by encouraging walking confidence alongside hands-on learning. The 12 Months Garden Playtime Set and Toddler Bundle are also excellent curated options for this age. Browse our full 1 Year+ range for all options.

Are Mentari early learning toys Montessori?

Mentari's early learning toys are designed in alignment with Montessori principles — hands-on, open-ended, screen-free, and battery-free. Toys like the Shape Sorting Animal Ark, Woodland Hammer Toy, and Explorer's Sorting and Stacking Bundle all support the kind of child-led, self-correcting play that Montessori philosophy encourages. While Mentari is not a formally certified Montessori brand, the approach is consistent throughout the range.

What developmental skills do early learning toys build?

Mentari's early learning range covers all key developmental areas. Browse by skill using our Expert Picks navigation: Fine Motor Skills, Gross Motor & Movement, Cognitive & Problem Solving, Language & Numbers, Sensory Play, Social & Emotional, and Imagination & Creativity.

Are the early learning toys safe for babies?

Yes. All Mentari toys are ASTM F963 certified and made from sustainably sourced wood with non-toxic, child-safe paints. Age recommendations on each product reflect both developmental readiness and safety — always follow the guidance on the product page and supervise babies and young toddlers during play. Read more about our safety standards on our Our Story page.