The Science Behind the Skwish Rattle: A Montessori Must-Have
The Science Behind the Skwish Rattle: A Montessori Must-Have
Walk into any Montessori-inspired nursery, and you'll likely see a strange web of wooden rods and elastic beads. It looks like a molecular structure model or a piece of modern art.
It's called the Skwish, and it is arguably the best first toy for your baby.
Manhattan Toy Skwish Color Rattle
MULTI-SENSORY WOODEN BABY RATTLE: This colorful multi-sensory wooden rattle encourages reaching and holding activity, important for gross motor skill development; the lightweight wooden dowels, smooth finish, and elastic ties make it easy for little hands to grab and hold. Safety-rated for newborns and up, the Skwish Classic is carefully constructed of sustainable wood and features a smooth multi-colored exterior surface.
Why "Simple" is Better
In a world of flashing lights and singing plastic toys, the Skwish stands out by doing... nothing. It doesn't sing. It doesn't light up.
This is by design. Passive toys create active learners.
1. Grasping Mastery
The complex web of dowels offers unlimited grasping angles. A 3-month-old who is just learning to control their hands can easily snag any part of the Skwish, providing immediate gratification and positive reinforcement.
2. Cause and Effect
The beads slide back and forth, making a gentle wooden "clack" sound. This teaches cause and effect without overstimulating the baby's developing nervous system.
3. Resilience and Object Permanence
You can "squish" the Skwish flat, and it instantly bounces back to its original shape. This fascinates older babies (6-9 months) and demonstrates properties of elasticity and resilience.
Safe and Sustainable
Made from renewable rubberwood and finished with water-based, non-toxic paints, it's safe for the inevitable teething phase. Unlike plastic rattles that can crack, the Skwish is built to last through multiple children.
Conclusion
If you only buy one rattle, make it this one. It supports fine motor skills, tracking, and cognitive development in a way that few other toys can match. Plus, it looks great on the shelf when play time is over.