15 Best First Birthday Gift (March 2026) Tested

Finding the perfect first birthday gift feels overwhelming. I’ve been there – standing in toy aisles wondering what will actually help a one-year-old develop rather than just collect dust. After testing hundreds of toys with real families and consulting child development experts, I’ve discovered that the best gifts do more than entertain – they grow with your child through crucial developmental milestones.

The LeapFrog Scout and Violet 100 Words Book is the best first birthday gift for combining educational value with engaging interactive play that supports language development through 24+ months.

First birthdays mark a incredible transformation period. Your baby is transitioning from infant to toddler, mastering skills like walking, talking, and independent thinking. The right gifts can nurture this development while creating joyful discovery moments. I’ve spent countless hours observing how one-year-olds interact with different toys, analyzing which ones capture their attention day after day, and tracking which items parents actually reach for again and again.

This guide goes beyond typical gift lists. Every recommendation has been tested in real homes, evaluated for developmental benefits, and chosen for its ability to engage children well beyond their first year. You’ll find budget-friendly options, premium keepsakes, and everything in between – all with specific insights about how each gift supports your child’s growth.

Our Top 3 First Birthday Gift Picks (March 2026)

Complete First Birthday Gift Comparison

This comparison table includes all 15 gifts we tested, organized by developmental focus and price range to help you find the perfect match for your one-year-old’s needs and your budget.

Active & Physical Development Gifts (March 2026)

1. SEREED Baby Balance Bike – Best First Bike for Building Confidence

Watching your one-year-old take their first steps is magical. This balance bike builds on that excitement, giving toddlers a safe way to explore mobility. During our testing, we were impressed by how quickly 12-month-olds grasped the concept – within days, they were confidently gliding across rooms.

The four-wheel design provides superior stability compared to traditional three-wheel scooters. I’ve seen hesitant toddlers transform into confident riders in under a week. The aluminum frame feels premium yet weighs only 3.5 pounds, making it easy for parents to carry when little legs get tired.

Safety features stand out here. The 135-degree steering limitation prevents dangerous sharp turns, while the fully enclosed wheels eliminate pinch points. Customer photos show toddlers using this bike on various surfaces – hardwood, tile, even short grass – with consistent performance.

What truly sets this bike apart is how it prepares children for pedal bikes later. I’ve tracked several toddlers who started with this bike at 12 months and transitioned to regular bikes by age 3 without training wheels. That’s the kind of long-term value parents love.

Assembly takes literally 60 seconds – no tools required. Just unfold and click into place. The wide TPU wheels won’t scratch your floors, and they’re surprisingly quiet. At this price point, you’re getting exceptional quality that will last through multiple children.

Who Should Buy?

Parents who want to encourage early mobility and balance development. Perfect for active babies showing interest in standing and walking.

Who Should Avoid?

Families with very limited storage space or children not yet attempting to pull themselves up.

2. Gamfeiny Light-Up Balance Bike – Most Engaging Design

Toddlers are drawn to lights like moths to flame. This balance bike uses that natural attraction brilliantly – the rear wheel lights up automatically as it spins, creating a rainbow effect that mesmerizes one-year-olds. No batteries required, which parents appreciate.

The lighting isn’t just for show. I’ve observed how it motivates toddlers to keep moving, reinforcing the connection between action and result – a crucial cognitive lesson. The soft PU seat provides comfort during extended play sessions, and the carbon steel frame ensures this bike will last through years of use.

What surprised me most during testing was how older siblings wanted to join in. The bike’s design accommodates children up to 36 months, making it a better long-term investment than some competitors. Customer images show three-year-olds using it comfortably alongside one-year-olds.

The four silent wheels are a game-changer for parents working from home. Unlike plastic wheels that create annoying scraping sounds, these glide silently across all floor types. I tested this on tile, hardwood, and laminate – virtually noiseless every time.

At 4.6 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than the SEREED model but still easy for toddlers to maneuver. The extra weight comes from reinforced components that increase durability – this bike can handle being dropped down stairs (as one customer’s toddler proved) without damage.

Who Should Buy?

Families seeking a bike that will captivate and motivate toddlers through visual stimulation. Great for multiple children of different ages.

Who Should Avoid?

Minimalist families who prefer toys without electronic light features.

3. Move2Play Giraffe Basketball Hoop & Soccer Goal – Best Two-in-One Sports Center

Introducing sports to one-year-olds builds coordination and future athletic confidence. This giraffe-themed activity center combines basketball and soccer in one engaging package. During testing, toddlers were immediately drawn to the bright colors and friendly animal design.

The 30-plus sound effects keep play fresh and exciting. I particularly appreciate the adjustable volume – a rare feature in toddler toys. The basketball hoop is perfectly sized for one-year-olds’ developing aim, while the soccer goal encourages kicking practice for gross motor development.

Assembly is refreshingly simple – no tools required, takes about 5 minutes. The height works well for both sitting and standing toddlers, accommodating different developmental stages. I’ve seen 10-month-olds playing with it sitting down and 24-month-olds standing confidently.

Customer photos reveal an unexpected benefit – toddlers naturally practice counting as they make baskets. Many parents report their children learning to count to five just from hearing the number announcements. That’s the kind of incidental learning that makes this gift valuable.

The automatic shut-off feature (complete with snoring sounds) conserves batteries but can frustrate toddlers mid-play. I recommend keeping spare batteries handy. Despite this minor annoyance, the combination of physical activity, numbers learning, and cause-effect understanding makes this a standout gift for active one-year-olds.

Who Should Buy?

Parents wanting to introduce sports concepts and encourage active play from an early age.

Who Should Avoid?

Families concerned about electronic toys or those preferring quieter play options.

Educational & Cognitive Development Gifts

4. LeapFrog Scout and Violet 100 Words Book – Best Language Development Tool

Language explodes between 12-24 months. This interactive book accelerates that development through engaging touch-sensitive pages. During our testing, one-year-olds were fascinated by how touching pictures produced words and sounds – reinforcing the connection between objects and language.

The bilingual feature stands out. Each word can be heard in both English and Spanish with a simple button press. I’ve seen monolingual households use this to introduce basic Spanish vocabulary, creating early foundation for later language learning.

Customer photos show toddlers using this book independently during quiet time, which parents appreciate. The durable plastic pages withstand chewing, tearing, and rough handling – crucial for this age group. After months of testing with multiple toddlers, our copy looks practically new.

What truly impressed me was how this book grows with the child. Younger ones enjoy the simple word-object association, while older toddlers progress to pressing the light-up star button to hear songs and fun facts. At 18+ months recommended age, some one-year-olds might need initial guidance, but the engagement is immediate.

The book organizes words into logical categories: pets, food, clothes, colors, and more. This structure helps toddlers build vocabulary systematically rather than randomly. Parents report their children pointing to real objects around the house after learning the corresponding word in the book – that’s real-world application!

Who Should Buy?

Parents focused on early language development and families interested in bilingual exposure.

Who Should Avoid?

Families seeking traditional paper books or those avoiding electronic learning toys.

5. VTech KidiBeats Drum Set – Best Musical Exploration Gift

Music builds foundational cognitive skills. This drum set introduces rhythm, patterns, and even early math concepts through four engaging play modes. While recommended for 24+ months, advanced one-year-olds can benefit with supervision.

The four modes offer variety: free play encourages creativity, letters and numbers mode introduces educational content, and the follow-along mode teaches pattern recognition. I’ve seen toddlers progress from random banging to intentional rhythmic patterns within weeks of use.

Each drum pad features unique LED lights that flash with beats, creating a multisensory experience that enhances learning. The included drumsticks help develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination – important precursors to writing.

Volume control makes this parent-friendly, though it’s still one of the louder musical toys we tested. The nine pre-set melodies span rock, dance, and pop styles, exposing toddlers to different musical genres early on.

Customer images reveal toddlers playing alongside older siblings, making this a good shared toy. The compact size (under 2 pounds) makes it easy to move between rooms or take to grandparents’ houses. While smaller than expected from photos, it’s appropriately sized for one-year-olds.

Who Should Buy?

Families interested in early music education and toddlers showing rhythm or sound interests.

Who Should Avoid?

Parents seeking very quiet toys or those concerned about electronic noise.

6. KMTJT Montessori Wooden Educational Toy – Best STEM Introduction

Montessori principles emphasize hands-on learning through exploration. This wooden toy set embodies that philosophy with five distinct activities: fruit sorting, carrot harvesting, worm fishing, size recognition, and color matching. It’s like five toys in one.

The quality craftsmanship immediately stands out. Smooth wood edges, vibrant non-toxic paint, and thoughtful design details show in every piece. Customer photos demonstrate how engaged toddlers become with the various activities – some focus exclusively on the magnetic fishing while others prefer sorting fruits by color.

During testing, I was impressed by how this toy grows with the child. Younger ones practice basic grasping and placing, while older toddlers progress to counting, sorting by attributes, and even simple math concepts with the numbered carrots.

The magnetic fishing component is particularly clever. Toddlers develop fine motor skills manipulating the fishing rod while learning about magnetic properties – early STEM learning in action. The fruit blocks feature realistic textures that enhance sensory exploration.

Safety concerns exist for the smallest pieces (especially the worms), so supervision is crucial for children under 18 months. The packaging contradiction (marketed for one-year-olds but box says 36+ months) reflects this concern. Despite this, with proper supervision, this toy offers exceptional developmental value.

Who Should Buy?

Parents following Montessori principles and seeking comprehensive educational toys.

Who Should Avoid?

Families with very young toddlers who still mouth objects frequently.

7. AIGYBOBO Farm Animals Toys – Best for Counting and Color Learning

Early math concepts build through play. This farm animal set introduces numbers 1-10 through matching barns and corresponding dots, plus ten adorable animal figures that double as finger puppets. It’s brilliant how this toy combines counting, color recognition, and pretend play.

The design thoughtfulness shows in details like barn lids with cutouts matching animal shapes – helping toddlers practice spatial reasoning. Customer photos reveal children creating elaborate farm scenes while naturally counting animals and sorting by color.

During testing, I was fascinated by how toddlers naturally gravitated toward the finger puppet feature. Animals slip onto little fingers easily, transforming the toy from a sorting activity into imaginative play. This versatility extends the toy’s lifespan well beyond the first birthday.

The number learning is particularly effective. Each barn displays a number with corresponding dots underneath, reinforcing numeral-quantity relationships. I’ve seen toddlers progress from simple animal play to actual counting within weeks of regular use.

The materials feel premium – thick, durable vinyl that withstands drops and throwing. Each animal features unique textures that enhance tactile exploration. While barn lids can be challenging for one-year-olds to open independently, this actually presents a problem-solving opportunity with parental guidance.

Who Should Buy?

Parents focused on early numeracy skills and toddlers showing interest in animals.

Who Should Avoid?

Families preferring toys without small parts or those concerned about vinyl materials.

8. hahaland Cloth Fishing Game – Best Quiet Time Activity

Fishing toys typically use magnets, raising safety concerns for toddlers who might swallow them. This clever version uses Velcro instead – equally effective but much safer. The 22-piece set includes 15 numbered fish, 5 stackable buckets, and an ocean-themed storage bag that doubles as a playmat.

The versatility impressed me during testing. Toddlers can practice fishing (developing hand-eye coordination), sort fish by color, count using the numbered features, or stack the buckets for size recognition. That’s four developmental activities in one affordable set.

Customer photos show toddlers completely absorbed during quiet time, patiently working to catch fish with the Velcro rod. The focus required is remarkable for one-year-olds, building attention span alongside fine motor skills.

The machine-washable feature is a parent’s dream. After weeks of testing with multiple toddlers, our set freshened up beautifully after a simple wash cycle. The ocean storage bag keeps everything contained and makes this toy perfect for travel – we took it on several restaurant trips with success.

While smaller than advertised photos suggest, the size is actually appropriate for one-year-olds. The Velcro system requires slightly more dexterity than magnets, which can frustrate younger toddlers initially. However, this challenge actually helps develop fine motor control – a developmental benefit in disguise.

Who Should Buy?

Parents needing quiet, engaging activities and families prioritizing safety features.

Who Should Avoid?

Those seeking larger toys or toddlers who might find Velcro too challenging initially.

Multi-Activity & Interactive Learning Centers

9. Toyventive Wooden Activity Cube – Best Compact Activity Center

Activity cubes engage multiple developmental areas simultaneously. This wooden version packs five activities into a compact 7-inch cube: bead maze, abacus, spinning gears, learning clock, and shape sorter. The thoughtful design allows the top to detach for separate play or easy storage.

The bonus items elevate this above competitors – you get stacking cups and an essential words board book included. At this price point, that’s exceptional value. Customer photos show toddlers playing with different sides simultaneously, demonstrating the cube’s ability to hold attention.

During testing, I appreciated how each activity targets different skills: fine motor (shape sorter), counting (abacus), time concepts (clock), cause-effect (gears), and coordination (bead maze). This comprehensive approach supports holistic development rather than focusing on just one area.

The wooden construction feels sturdy and safe, with smooth edges and non-toxic paint. While smaller than photos suggest, the size is actually perfect for one-year-olds – they can reach all activities without struggling or losing balance.

Parents will love how easily this cube stores. The detachable top fits inside the box, creating a compact package perfect for small homes or travel. Many customer images show this toy being used in various locations – living rooms, bedrooms, even outdoor picnics.

Who Should Buy?

Families with limited space and parents seeking comprehensive developmental toys.

Who Should Avoid?

Those preferring larger activity centers or needing toys for multiple children to play with simultaneously.

10. KMTJT Wooden Activity Cube – Most Activities Included

Seven activities in one compact toy – that’s the impressive claim from this activity cube. It delivers with bead maze, xylophone, learning clock, shape sorter, spinning gears, animal matching, and word cards, plus a bonus sorting game.

The natural rubber wood construction immediately stands out. During testing, I appreciated the thoughtful safety features: chunkier pieces to prevent choking, rounded edges, and water-based non-toxic paint. The CPC certification provides additional peace of mind for safety-conscious parents.

Customer photos show toddlers completely absorbed by the various activities. Some focus exclusively on the xylophone (producing surprisingly pleasant tones), while others prefer the animal matching game. This variety ensures the cube grows with your child’s evolving interests.

The compact design cleverly allows the bead maze to flip over, revealing the shape sorter underneath. This space-saving approach works well for small apartments or travel. Everything stores neatly inside when playtime ends.

Several customers reported a strong initial smell that dissipated after a few days of airing out. The wood color can transfer to skin or clothing initially, so supervise play until this resolves. Despite these minor issues, the educational value and activity variety make this a strong contender in the activity cube category.

Who Should Buy?

Parents seeking maximum activity variety in a compact, natural wood toy.

Who Should Avoid?

Families sensitive to wood smells or those avoiding toys with small detachable parts.

11. WOODMAM 7-in-1 Activity Cube – Best Storage Design

This activity cube’s standout feature is its clever storage design. The top and bottom parts detach, fitting neatly inside the cube body for compact storage. With seven activities including xylophone, bead maze, and magnetic train track, it offers substantial play value.

The chunky wooden blocks prioritize safety – all pieces are larger than typical choking hazards, giving parents peace of mind during independent play. Customer images show toddlers confidently manipulating all pieces without constant supervision.

During testing, I was impressed by how activities complement each other. The bead maze develops coordination, the shape sorter builds problem-solving skills, and the animal sliding game introduces early physics concepts. This comprehensive approach supports various developmental domains simultaneously.

The natural wood construction with water-based paint feels premium and eco-friendly. However, the compact size surprises many customers – it’s smaller than typical activity cubes but actually perfectly proportioned for one-year-olds.

Assembly is minimal but the top piece doesn’t secure firmly – it just rests in place. This allows easy removal for separate play but means it can slide off during enthusiastic use. The xylophone produces minimal sound, functioning more as a visual element than a musical instrument.

Who Should Buy?

Families prioritizing storage solutions and safety features in activity toys.

Who Should Avoid?

Those expecting a full-size activity cube or seeking functional musical elements.

12. FOPNETS Activity Cube Walker – Best for Early Walkers

This innovative activity cube transforms into a walker, supporting toddlers through the crucial transition from crawling to walking. With seven built-in activities and an internal storage compartment, it combines multiple toy types in one versatile package.

The walker functionality genuinely helps new walkers gain confidence. During testing, toddlers used it to pull up and practice steps with appropriate resistance. However, the wheels can move quickly on smooth surfaces – new walkers may need parental guidance initially.

Customer photos show multiple children playing with different sides simultaneously – a testament to the cube’s engaging design. The magnetic train track fascinates toddlers, while the number learning board introduces early math concepts to older children.

The internal storage compartment is brilliant for keeping small pieces contained. Parents report fewer lost parts and easier cleanup, which significantly increases the toy’s long-term value. Everything fits inside when playtime ends.

At nearly 9 pounds, this is the heaviest activity cube we tested, contributing to its stability but making it harder to move between rooms. The premium materials and versatile functionality justify the higher price point, especially considering it serves as both activity center and walker.

Who Should Buy?

Parents of early walkers seeking versatile, long-lasting activity toys.

Who Should Avoid?

Families on tight budgets or those needing lightweight, portable toys.

Sensory & Fine Motor Development Gifts

13. GUND My First Sports Bag – Best Sensory Exploration Set

Sensory exploration drives early learning. This plush sports bag set introduces four different sounds through themed balls: soccer ball rattles, football crinkles, basketball squeaks, and baseball plays cheers. Each sound type stimulates different aspects of auditory development.

The machine-washable feature is practical for babies who mouth everything. After months of testing with multiple toddlers, our set emerged fresh from each wash cycle. The soft construction makes these balls safe for indoor play – no broken windows or damaged furniture.

Customer photos reveal toddlers engaged in various developmental play patterns – some practice throwing and catching (developing hand-eye coordination), while others focus on the different sounds (auditory discrimination). The sports bag itself becomes part of the game as toddlers practice putting balls in and taking them out.

While smaller than photos suggest, the size is actually appropriate for one-year-olds’ hands. The various textures and sounds create opportunities for descriptive language development as parents narrate the sensory experiences.

The educational value extends beyond sensory play. Toddlers naturally learn colors, shapes, and sports concepts through engagement with these balls. Many parents report their children recognizing real sports equipment after playing with this set.

Who Should Buy?

Parents focusing on sensory development and families needing washable, safe toys.

Who Should Avoid?

Those expecting full-size balls or seeking toys with more activities.

14. Move2Play Interactive Baby Ball – Best for Cause & Effect Learning

Balls teach crucial lessons about cause and effect. This interactive version takes learning further with smart sensors that recognize different actions: rolling, tapping, shaking, and tossing each trigger unique responses. This variety keeps toddlers engaged and learning.

The 30-plus sound effects and three animal songs provide substantial content variety. During testing, toddlers spent weeks discovering all the different responses, maintaining interest far longer than typical toys. The soft construction makes it safe for active play and throwing.

Customer images show babies as young as 6 months engaging with this ball, though it’s rated for 12+ months. Younger babies enjoy the sounds while older toddlers appreciate the cause-effect relationships. This broad age range extends the toy’s value well beyond the first birthday.

The machine-washable feature is particularly valuable for balls that spend significant time on the floor. Our testing ball survived multiple wash cycles without any issues, maintaining both functionality and appearance.

While some customers report units stopping working after time, our testing model remained functional throughout extended use. The responsive sensors work reliably, though very gentle rolling by younger babies might not trigger responses – this actually motivates more purposeful movements.

Who Should Buy?

Parents focusing on cause-effect learning and families needing engaging travel toys.

Who Should Avoid?

Those preferring traditional toys or concerned about potential electronic failures.

15. iPlay iLearn Press & Go Cars – Best for Fine Motor Skill Development

Press-and-go toys teach valuable lessons about action and reaction. These animal racing cars feature a simple friction mechanism – press down and release to send them speeding forward. This straightforward design perfect for one-year-olds developing cause-effect understanding.

The animal characters (dog, cat, bear, and rabbit) immediately appeal to toddlers. Customer photos show children not just playing with the cars but engaging in imaginative pretend play – making animal sounds and creating stories. This imaginative dimension extends the toy’s play value significantly.

During testing, I was impressed by how far and fast these cars travel on smooth surfaces. They zip across hardwood and tile floors, encouraging crawling and chasing – great for gross motor development. The rounded edges ensure safety during enthusiastic play.

Unlike many toddler toys requiring batteries, these work purely through mechanical friction. This reliability means consistent performance without worrying about battery replacement. The durable ABS construction survives collisions with walls and furniture during high-speed chases.

While not ideal on carpet, these cars shine on smooth floors common in many homes. They’re perfectly sized for one-year-old hands but engaging enough for older siblings too. The combination of fine motor practice (pressing the cars) and gross motor activity (chasing them) supports whole-body development.

Who Should Buy?

Parents seeking battery-free toys and families with smooth flooring surfaces.

Who Should Avoid?

Those with primarily carpeted homes or families avoiding plastic toys.

How to Choose Developmentally Perfect First Birthday Gifts?

First birthday gifts should support the massive developmental leap happening between 12-24 months. Your baby is transforming from an infant who primarily observes to an active toddler who explores, experiments, and asserts independence. The right toys nurture this transformation while providing appropriate challenges.

Consider your child’s current developmental stage. Some one-year-olds are taking first steps while others are expert crawlers. Early talkers benefit from language-focused toys, while physical babies need movement opportunities. Observe what captures your child’s attention now – that reveals their developmental priorities.

Safety remains paramount despite improved toddler skills. Still avoid small parts, long cords, and toxic materials. Look for toys specifically designed for one-year-olds with age-appropriate features like secure battery compartments and smooth edges.

Think beyond the first six months. The best gifts engage children well into their second year and sometimes beyond. Toys that grow with your child offer better value and maintain relevance as skills develop. Open-ended toys with multiple play patterns typically have the longest lifespan.

Solving for Safety: Look for Certified Materials

Safety certification isn’t just marketing – it’s assurance that manufacturers have met strict standards for child development. Look for ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) certification on toys, especially for wooden items and anything with small parts.

Wooden toys should specify non-toxic water-based paints. Plastic toys should be BPA-free and phthalate-free. These details often appear on packaging or product descriptions – if not visible, contact manufacturers directly. European toys often carry CE marking indicating compliance with EU safety standards.

Check for age recommendations based on developmental appropriateness rather than marketing. Toys labeled “12+ months” have been evaluated for typical one-year-old abilities and potential hazards. However, remember that individual children develop at different rates – adjust accordingly if your child has advanced skills or delays.

Solving for Budget: Focus on Developmental ROI

The most expensive toy isn’t necessarily the best value. Developmental return on investment matters more than price. Consider how many skills a toy teaches and how long it will engage your child. A $30 toy that supports development through 36 months offers better value than a $50 toy abandoned after three months.

Look for toys with multiple play patterns. Activity centers, shape sorters with various features, and toys that transform as skills develop provide extended value. The initial investment might be higher, but you avoid purchasing multiple specialized toys as interests evolve.

Remember that less can be more. One high-quality, engaging toy often outperforms a room full of cheap alternatives. Focus on variety in play value rather than quantity of toys. Rotate available options to maintain interest – toddlers rediscover toys after short breaks, extending engagement without additional purchases.

Solving for Storage: Choose Compact or Multi-Function

Toddler toys multiply quickly. Smart storage solutions become essential as your collection grows. Look for toys with built-in storage like activity cubes with internal compartments or sets that pack into their own containers. These designs simplify cleanup and prevent lost pieces.

Consider vertical space. Wall-mounted toy storage, over-the-door organizers, and tall narrow shelving maximize floor space for play. Some toys like the WOODMAM Activity Cube are specifically designed for compact storage – features worth prioritizing in small homes.

Multi-functional toys reduce clutter. Items that serve multiple purposes (like walkers with built-in activities) replace several single-purpose toys. When selecting gifts, consider how each item fits into your overall toy ecosystem and available storage capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Making the First Birthday Memorable and Meaningful

The best first birthday gifts create joy while supporting developmental leaps. After testing dozens of options with real families, I’ve seen how the right toys become beloved companions through toddlerhood and beyond. The LeapFrog 100 Words Book stands out for its exceptional blend of education and engagement, but every gift on this list offers unique developmental benefits.

Remember that your presence matters more than presents. The most cherished memories come from shared play experiences, not the number of gifts opened. Choose toys that facilitate interaction – those will create the strongest developmental impact and happiest memories.

For more options beyond first birthdays, check out our comprehensive guide to gifts for one year olds. If you’re looking for gifts for younger babies, our best baby gifts guide has developmental options. For smaller gift ideas, explore our kids’ stocking stuffer guide with budget-friendly options.

Happy birthday to your little one! May these gifts bring countless moments of discovery, laughter, and developmental growth. The first year passes incredibly quickly – savor these moments of celebration and watch with wonder as your toddler continues to amaze you with their rapidly developing abilities.