In the case of baby toys, parents are always seeking after toys that are not only safe but are also stimulating and comforting to their children. The babybelletje is one of the adorable details that make several baby toys special. This is a Dutch term that translates into the English language as baby bell and is used as a small bell that is put in toys, cushions, or other homemade items to make a sweet jingling noise. The faint ringing is music to the babies, making them get playing, investigating around and training their senses.
It is in this article that we will discuss what a babybelletje is, its advantages, its uses and why it has become such a popular item among the toy makers and craft enthusiasts.
What Is a Babybelletje?
A babybelletje is a tiny small bell which can be stitched, crocheted or placed in toys and soft playing objects among babies. These bells are specially meant to engage a sweet and calming tone instead of a rough and loud ring. Babybelletjes are safe to use because of their size and construction when well enclosed in toys to make sure that babies cannot reach or swallow them.
They are commonly used in:
- Plush toys and teddy bears
- Rattles and amigurumi figures crocheted.
- Babies cushions and sensory pillows.
- Home crafts and homemade baby products.
Babybelletjes bring simple toys to life by their jingling sound and making them more interactive and involving to the infants.
Why Do Babies Love Babybelletjes?
Babies are inquisitive by nature and attracted by sounds. Their attention is taken by the gentle clink of a babybelletje without necessarily overloading their delicate ears. Here’s why babies love them:
1. Gentle Sound Stimulation
The quiet music presents the babies to cause-and-effect. Their action of shaking, squeezing or moving the toy causes them to hear the bell which teaches them that they can cause things to happen by what they do.
2. Promotes Play and Inquisitiveness.
Infants will be encouraged to continue playing with the toys that give them some reward through sound. Babybelletje turns the game time into a pleasant experience, both hearing and muscle-wise.
3. Comforting and Cheerful
The sound of a babybelletje is soothing, unlike the loud rattles. It has the ability to sooth babies during their play and sleep life, making their toys appear livelier.
Benefits of Using a Babybelletje in Toys
Not only is a toy with a babybelletje fun, but it is also developmental.
- Sensory Development: Improves auditory development as it assists babies to differentiate sounds.
- Motor Skills Development: Promotes hand-eye coordination of the baby who shakes, holds, or grabs the toy.
- Emotional Comfort: The soft sound would help to reassure and make toys more captivating.
- Creativity for Crafters: To parents and hobbyists who enjoy crocheting or sewing, a babybelletje is the way to make handmade toys special and different.
Different Sizes and Types of Babybelletjes
Babybelletjes are not all equal. They are available in sizes and finishes that fit in all projects.
- Small Babybelletjes (10-12 mm): Suitable to small crocheted animals or rattles.
- Medium Babybelletjes (15-20 mm): Ideal in plush toys and bigger handmade crafts.
- Plastic Enclosed Bells: This is a safer alternative of baby toys, being purely sealed.
- Metallic Bells: These produce a more distinct sound and they are frequently used in ornamental work.
The safety should be a factor to consider when selecting a babybelletje. Always use non-toxic and rust free bells specifically used to play with babies.
How to Use Babybelletjes in DIY Projects
Should you be fond of toying or crocheting, a babybelletje is not difficult to make, and can be most satisfactory. Here are some popular uses:
1. Crocheted Rattles
Take a babybelletje and put it in the stuffing of a crocheted animal or a toy. The music is a plus, which babies love.
2. Plush Teddy Bears
Put a bell in the body of a teddy bear or a doll. Each hug will be met with a tender jingle.
3. Sensory Cushions
Babybelletjes may be embroidered into baby pillows or cushions that can be used as play objects of sensorial functions.
4. DIY Mobiles
There are toys dangling on a crib with babybelletjes inside that produce jingling noises that are calming when they move.
Safety Tips When Using Babybelletjes
Although babybelletjes are very nice additions to the toys, safety first must always be the priority. Here are some tips:
- Safe Warping: Tight sewing or crochet should be used to ensure that the bell is safely wrapped.
- Use Quality Materials: Select baby safe bells that are rust and BPA free.
- Avoid Loose Bells: Do not give a child a toy with a loose bell, which may be swallowed.
- Check Frequently:Test toys frequently to ensure that seams are strong.
With these tips, parents will be able to make sure that their little one has toys that are healthy as well as entertaining.
Where Can You Buy Babybelletjes?
Babybelletjes can be found in most craft stores, online shops and specialty shops. Some popular places include:
- Craft stores on the internet that supply toys.
- Crochet and knitting shops
- Homepage websites in toy supply.
- Big websites such as Etsy or Amazon.
Before purchasing, ensure that the product has been clearly labeled as being baby-safe to ensure quality and safety.
Why Crafters and Parents Love Babybelletjes
The babybelletje has gained and is gaining popularity across the world amongst parents and hobbyists. To crafters, it can be seen as an easy way of giving handmade toys life and uniqueness. To parents, it is an excellent attribute that renders toys more interactive and calming to the child.
The fact that a babybelletje makes the toy is a minor but significant addition. It takes simple toys and makes them a prized possession in which babies will shake, cuddle and feel.
Conclusion
Babybelletje is not a big thing, however, its influence on the playtime of a baby is great. Its jingle is very refreshing to the eyes of a baby, it is very welcoming to play and it is very comforting. A babybelletje can be used as plush toys, rattles made by crocheting, or even in DIY projects to turn ordinary objects into magic toys, which both children and parents will value.