From Comfort to Curiosity: Crochet Toys

When I was a nurse in the NICU, one day something unexpected appeared at the bedside;  a small, crocheted octopus tucked gently beside my premature patient.

I can’t recall exactly how they became a thing, but soon, volunteers all over began making them. Their curled tentacles mimicked the umbilical cord, a familiar comfort that reminded these little ones of the womb. The idea was simple but powerful.  The octopus offered calm and security while keeping tiny hands away from IV lines and monitor cords.

Over time, research began to reflect what we witnessed at the bedside. Babies who rested beside their crochet companions often showed steadier heartbeats, improved oxygen levels, and an overall sense of calm. These handmade “first toys” weren’t just cute; they were a bridge between the safety of the womb and the world waiting outside the isollette.

Here at Nurture Works, I offer a similar “first toy, " the crochet rattle. While the octopus offers comfort in stillness, the rattle invites curiosity and movement. Together, they represent two sides of nurturing, soothing and stimulating.

A crochet rattle helps babies explore their senses through sound, touch, and movement. When a baby grasps, shakes, or chews on the soft yarn, they’re not just playing,  they’re learning. Each shake helps develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and a foundational sense of cause and effect (“When I move, something happens”). The textured yarn adds layers of sensory stimulation and teething relief, offering a safe and comforting way to explore the world.

Just like the octopus, the rattle is handmade with intention,  created to nurture connection, comfort, and growth in the most natural way possible. From the first grasp of a tentacle to the first shake of a rattle, these small, thoughtful creations remind us that care can be both intentional and developmentally appropriate.

✨ Having a baby or know someone who is? A crochet rattle makes a beautiful and meaningful gift. A keepsake that nurtures both heart and development. 🌿