In this Build Your Own series, we will be building our own play kits with Lovevery alternatives for The Inspector play kit by understanding the function of each toy. This kit is designed for infants starting at 7-8 months and primarily features playthings for Baby starting to 1) observe more details and textures, 2) practice nesting and stacking, and 3) learning about object permanence.
Best Lovevery Alternatives for The Inspector Box
As always, here are my recommendations for the top Lovevery alternatives I recommend for The Inspector play kit. More details on why, as well as additional product recommendations for 7-8 month olds, below!
Ball Drop Box & Balls
The ball drop drop toy is intended to help baby understand that when the object disappears for a moment through the hole, it reappears in the tray again. This helps them understand that things continue to exist even when they can’t see it at that moment – the concept of object permanence. So, in my opinion, these two Lovevery items…
… can be replaced with the below option – a high quality alternative object permanence box that includes three wooden, colorful balls to play with.
Nesting & Stacking Cups
Play with the individual cups, observe the different sizes, knock over the tower, see what fits inside. Nesting and stacking cups are a versatile toy that Baby will love to play with. As always, a beautiful product from Lovevery as shown below…
… but can easily be replicated to fit all budget ranges, like the options below.
Stacking cups are a popular play thing to get for Baby because it teaches a lot of things and is versatile, so it’s no wonder there are a lot of alternatives available at all price ranges. The awesome thing about stacking cups is also that they can be played with in the bath. Definitely a toy to add to your Baby’s collection.
Simple Puzzle
Baby’s first puzzle helps them develop their fine motor skills and hand eye coordination. Moving the puzzle piece and finding a baby underneath is also a fun surprise. This Lovevery one-piece puzzle below can be replaced with…
… lots of different simple puzzle options like those shown below.
There are puzzle options of all shapes and sizes. Below is a fun one-piece puzzle that, instead of a random baby’s face behind it, includes a fun unbreakable mirror. As you’ll hear me say time and time again, babies love looking at themselves!
I’ve also included a simple knob puzzle as a possible puzzle alternative that I recommend. Babies can very easily grasp big knobs earlier than smaller knobs, so they are big fans of the jumbo knob puzzles like the one below.
Baby Sign Language Book
Jump start your baby’s communication abilities by teaching sign language. The better they are able to express themselves, the less frustration they will feel, and the more effective you’ll be able to address baby’s needs and wants. This Lovevery book about ‘My First Signs’…
… can be replaced with some fun book alternatives for teaching Baby sign language. The downside is that none of them include real human photos like Lovevery, but the plus-side is that it includes a lot more signs.
Texture Cards
Lovevery includes 9 fun object and animal cards that all display a different “texture” for Baby to experience:
You can find great flash card alternatives that include the texture component. Here are just a few options!
Woven Basket
Containment pieces made from natural materials is a big Montessori idea for both keeping your play space simple & beautiful, and keeping things organized while inviting your child to play. At this stage, the basket is intended for you to fill with different household items and invite your child to explore. However, I think you’ll want more baskets in the future, and preferably matching, so in my view, this Lovevery basket can be replaced…
… with these below cotton rope basket options. They are offered in different color schemes in a set of varying sizes to fit all your needs around the house. You’ll have a lot of play things to corrale – from puzzle pieces to small balls to play with, and other smaller toys.
Felt / Sensory Balls
Lovevery includes these cute felt balls in their playful color scheme. It is intended to teach baby about round things (i.e., they roll!) and is the perfect size for Baby’s small hands. However, I think there are good alternatives to these…
… with this textured multi-ball set. Not only will Baby learn the concept of ball = round = rolls, they are easy to grab, and they come in a variety of textures which will further teach your baby to engage their tactile senses.
If you do decide you want felt balls though, here is a cute option. Lots more available with all the crafting supplies 🙂
Or if you like double-duty items like I do, these dryer balls are 100% wool and when Baby tires of playing with these balls, you can just use them as your net set of dryer balls.
Drinking Cup
Lovevery includes a simple cup for your little one to starting learning how to drink from an open cup – the same muscles do to this will be used in forming new sounds. In my opinion, you could substitute this Lovevery cup with…
… these choices of silicone cups. The ex pz mini cup system specifically is very popular. Babies like to chew on things as they are learning about them, so I also feel better about Baby chewing on silicone instead of metal. The straw training system will also teach baby to use a straw!
I’ve added this second option because tiny cups with tiny handles are easier to hold for tiny hands 🙂
Is this DIY Cheaper Version of Lovevery Inspector Box Better?
Yes, I would personally skip the Lovevery The Inspector Play Kit.