When Can Babies Hold a Rattle? A Month-by-Month Guide

A rattle is often one of the very first toys a baby gets, but when will your little one actually hold it? Most babies begin holding a rattle placed in their hand around 3 to 4 months, and start reaching for and shaking one on purpose closer to 4 to 6 months. Every baby develops at their own pace, so think of these as loose guideposts rather than deadlines.

Newborn to 2 months: the grasp reflex

Newborns will curl their fingers around anything that touches their palm. It's adorable, but it's a reflex rather than an intentional grab. At this stage, a rattle is mostly something for your baby to listen to and look at. Gently shake it to one side and watch them turn toward the sound. Soft, high-contrast shapes and gentle sounds are ideal.

3 to 4 months: first real holds

Around now, the reflex fades and babies begin holding a toy you place in their hand. They'll also start swiping at toys with their arms. A lightweight rattle with an easy-to-grip ring is perfect for small hands that are still learning. Expect lots of mouthing, too. That's how babies explore, which is why materials matter so much (more on that below).

4 to 6 months: reach, grab, shake

This is when rattles really shine. Babies start reaching for toys they want, bringing them to their mouth, and discovering that shaking makes a sound. That cause-and-effect moment is a big one for early learning.

6 months and up: passing hand to hand

Many babies begin passing a toy from one hand to the other and banging it on surfaces. A rattle becomes a toy they can play with independently while you're close by.

How to choose a safe first rattle

• No small parts. Skip anything with buttons, beads, or plastic eyes that could come loose. Our rattles use stitched yarn eyes instead.
• Soft, natural materials. Since everything goes in the mouth, look for materials like organic cotton and natural wood.
• Lightweight and easy to grip. A smooth ring handle is easier for tiny hands than a thick or heavy toy.
• Always supervise. Rattles are for awake, supervised play. Keep toys out of the crib during sleep.

Our handmade rattles

Each Knitted Friends baby rattle is crocheted from organic cotton yarn with a natural beechwood ring, sized for little hands and gentle on gums. Choose a Bunny, Bear, Elephant, or one of our other animal friends.

Looking for the right first rattle? Read our guide to the best knitted baby rattles for newborns, or shop all handmade baby rattles.

This article is for general information only. If you have questions about your baby's development, talk with your pediatrician.