Top 5 Montessori Musical Toys for Babies + Toddlers
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If there’s one thing that lights up a child’s world, it’s music. From the first time your baby bangs on a drum to the moment your toddler sways to their favorite tune, music sparks joy, curiosity, and connection. In a Montessori classroom, musical toys play a big role in early learning, and this is true in my home too! My toddler LOVES music, and it is so fun to watch her light up when her favorite song comes on. Her favorite musical game currently is one where she sings and plays her guitar and then waits for my husband and I to say “ENCORE, ENCORE,” after which she chooses another song to sing—it might just be the cutest thing ever.
Musical toys not just about making noise (though that’s fun too!)—they support fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, sensory development, and even cognitive abilities. The best part? You don’t have to wait until preschool to introduce your little one to the world of music. With thoughtfully designed Montessori musical toys, your baby or toddler can explore different sounds, experiment with various instruments, and go on their very own musical journey right at home.
Here are my top 5 picks for the best musical instruments for babies and toddlers—each one safe and beautiful so you can feel good about playtime.
1. Lovevery - The Music Set
Lovevery is one of my favorite brands when it comes to Montessori-inspired play, and their Music Set is a perfect example of why. This curated set includes safe, high-quality instruments sized just right for little hands.
Each piece helps babies and toddlers explore different tones and sounds while building fine motor skills. The drumsticks, shaker, and jingles introduce your child to rhythm in such a playful way. I love that it’s designed for young age use (18 months and up), making it a wonderful first step into the world of music.
Made with sustainably sourced wood and non-toxic finishes
Encourages hand-eye coordination and sensory development
Perfect way to spark an early love for music
This is the set I recommend if you want something simple, safe, and Montessori-aligned.
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2. Stoie’s International Wooden Musical Instruments Set
If you’re looking for variety, Stoie’s International Set delivers! With 19 different instruments inspired by sounds from around the globe, this set is a little treasure chest of music toys. It’s basically like bringing a mini Montessori classroom home.
From maracas and tambourines to a wooden xylophone and even a triangle, toddlers get to explore various instruments and experiment with different sounds. The diversity keeps play fresh and exciting while also teaching your little one about rhythm, tone, and culture.
Features 19 musical instruments (so much fun to rotate!)
Perfect gift for toddlers and preschoolers
Comes with a handy carrying bag for easy storage
This set is a perfect way to introduce children to a wide musical journey.
3. MiniArtis Toddler Wooden Musical Instruments Kit
This Montessori-friendly music kit is designed with little hands in mind. I love how everything is lightweight, colorful, and safe for younger toddlers. From wood sounders to egg shakers, there are so many ways for kids to explore rhythm and coordination.
Parents rave about how engaging this set is, and it’s easy to see why. It helps children practice hand-eye coordination while also improving cognitive development through experimenting with different tones.
Made with natural wood and non-toxic finishes
Introduces a variety of musical instruments in one set
Great for sensory development and early cognitive abilities
This is one of the best musical toys for sparking creativity in toddlers who are eager to try “all the instruments” at once.
4. PlanToys Oval Xylophone
PlanToys has been a leader in sustainable, Montessori-style toys for decades, and their Oval Xylophone is a classic. It’s beautifully made from rubberwood with non-toxic finishes, making it safe for babies and toddlers to explore.
The xylophone produces gentle, different tones that are easy on little ears—perfect for introducing young children to melody. Plus, using the mallet is a fantastic way to strengthen fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Eco-friendly and safe for little ones
Encourages musical exploration at a young age
A perfect gift for birthdays or holidays
This xylophone is a staple in many Montessori classrooms, and it’s a timeless addition to your home.
5. PlanToys Rhythm Box
Every musical journey needs a rhythm box, and this one is my favorite for toddlers. The PlanToys Rhythm Box is made of eco-friendly wood with a natural rubber head that produces warm, rich tones. It’s designed to be durable, safe, and just the right size for little hands.
Drumming is not only fun, but it’s also incredible for sensory development and building rhythm. Plus, it gives toddlers an outlet for energy (and we all know how much they have to spare!).
Made from sustainable materials with non-toxic finishes
Produces different sounds depending on where you tap
If you’re looking for a toy that’s both educational and so much fun, this is it.
Why Montessori Musical Toys Matter
Music is such a powerful tool for learning. In Montessori, the best musical instruments aren’t flashy or electronic—they’re simple, beautiful, and designed to let children explore naturally. These toys encourage:
Fine motor skills through grasping, tapping, and shaking (Find out The Importance of Fine Motor Skill Development at penfieldchildren.org)
Hand-eye coordination as little ones learn to strike instruments with precision
Cognitive development as they notice cause-and-effect and patterns in sound
Sensory development by exploring different tones and textures
Confidence as they create music all on their own
Introducing music toys at a young age is the perfect way to help your child build a lifelong appreciation for rhythm, melody, and self-expression.
Looking to bring more Montessori routines into your home? Check out these Top 5 Items for a Children's Montessori Inspired Home
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re building a Montessori-inspired playroom or just want the best musical toys for your baby or toddler, these five options are sure to bring joy into your home! They’re safe, thoughtfully designed, and oh-so engaging. Each one gives your child the opportunity to explore the world of music at their own pace while developing important cognitive abilities.
If you’re looking for a perfect gift (or a way to liven up your daily play routine), you really can’t go wrong with any of these picks. Music is a universal language, and giving your child the chance to explore it early on is truly a gift that lasts a lifetime.
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