Fisher-Price: Fostering Childhood Development for Generations
Among the first 16 products ever created by the Fisher-Price company were colorfully painted wooden ducks with wheels on their feet. The year was 1930, and the company’s founders—Herm Fisher, Irving Price, and Helen Schnelle—shared the common goal of creating toys that would captivate children and enrich their lives. Now, more than 85 years later, Fisher-Price is one of the most trusted names for baby gear and toys, offering hundreds of products that encourage development and spark the imaginations of young children.
Here’s a closer look at some of the popular items made by Fisher-Price.
Gear
For many parents of newborns, it’s rare to find a moment in which your hands are free. That’s why swings and bouncers are go-to items to put on the registry—and Fisher-Price makes some of the best. What’s the difference between swings and bouncers?
- Swings are motorized. The Cradle ’n Swing line is one of the most popular on the market and an American Baby award winner. Different babies like varying intensity of types of movement, and this swing offers a wide selection—it can move front to back or side to side in six different speeds. For some babies, the swing is a sleep whisperer. The plush seat and movement allow them to settle in for a restful nap. If they’re awake, a mobile and music will keep them engaged.
- Bouncers are more low-profile seats that allow babies to recline and rock themselves. (Although some bouncers are also automated.) The Rock 'n Play Newborn Sleeper is a foldable inclined seat that fits perfectly next to your bed for easy access to your baby during those overnight feedings. It’s also a comfy place for them to nap and hang out in during the day.
Toys
Fisher-Price built its company on quality learning and educational toys, and that tradition continues to this day. Their toys engage infants, toddlers and beyond, helping their development at every stage.
Infant Toys
The Fisher-Price shape sorting blocks and stacking rings are classic toys that never go out of style. They’re simple, easy to hold, and feature bright colors, allowing babies to learn shape and size recognition, and hand-eye coordination.
As your baby gets stronger and more mobile, they’ll also love Fisher-Price toys that will help them develop their gross motor skills. The Jumperoo is a baby favorite, supporting them in a seat as they stand and bounce with the help of bungee cords. The spinning seat and busy toys add another level of engagement and independent playtime. Activity tables are also a great way to encourage babies to pull up and explore. The Bright Beats Smart Touch Play Space landed on the Time to Play 2015 Most Wanted List. Its unique shape, ramps, and toys will keep your baby busy at each stage: from sitting to crawling to standing and cruising.
Toddler Toys
- Every toddler loves their own set of wheels, and Fisher-Price ride-on toys come in a variety of types and sizes. Whether it’s an airplane, fire truck, or a vehicle themed with their favorite character, toddlers can scoot, pedal, and drive in these sturdy Fisher-Price rides.
- Fisher-Price toys also encourage kids to engage in pretend play, which is crucial in nurturing a child’s language and social skills. Its Laugh & Learn line of toys includes play versions of a hammer, wallet, and camera—making real-world items fun and educational. And the Little People playsets have been delighting kids for generations, sparking imagination and storytelling.
- For toddlers who love trains, there’s nothing more exciting than Thomas & Friends. The engines provide endless hours of enjoyment, as kids learn to build tracks and recreate the world of Sir Topham Hatt’s railway, where everything runs on teamwork.
