Play is very important, it’s how children learn. We may joke about them having had a hard day when they look exhausted after a long Duplo session, but it is actually hard work when you consider that they’re trying to grasp basic concepts that we take for granted, such as that you can put things on top of other things and ultimately make a bigger thing. It’s good to let them experiment when they play and let them learn through trial and error.
When babies first start to play, they don’t use imagination: they’re still learning about colour, movement, shapes, textures and sounds, which is why nearly all soft toys these days have crinkly bits that vary the texture and make crinkly noises. In fact, many modern baby toys are designed by legions of baby toy scientists who put these things together to stimulate babies’ interest in various ways, so you’re spoiled for choice really.
At this stage children will play with almost anything that’s put in front of them, which can lead to frustration when they appear to enjoy the expensive toy slightly less than the box it came in.
There’s no need to give them a huge number of toys, as they’ll just get overwhelmed by the choice – but a range of different toys and activities is a good thing. Variety is good for small children and giving them a wide choice now will enable them to make their own decisions about what they want to do as they get older. But let them dictate their own experiences at their own pace - and try not to get frustrated when they're not interested in the awesome Spitfire Airfix kit you've bought them. Becuase hopefully, one day they will be.