Tummy time is more than just a playful respite; it’s a foundational moment for our babies to strengthen and explore their budding abilities. Yet, belly-down can feel less than thrilling for some little ones.
In this article, I’ll uncover best toys for tummy time that encourage prolonged play periods and stimulate developmental growth. Dive in to find the perfect additions to enhance those crucial minutes spent on the tummy!
Best Toys for Tummy Time
1. Bright Starts Tummy Time Prop & Play
As a parent, the first few months with my baby are a mixture of excitement, exhaustion, and learning. One of the items that made a significant difference in our daily routine is the Bright Starts Tummy Time Prop & Play. It’s not just a mat. It’s a space designed for our little one to grow more robust and more active.
Every time I lay my baby down on it, I can see the twinkle in their eyes, curiosity building as they explore the different textures and toys. The colorful and engaging designs keep them interested, and the plush padding ensures they are comfortable. Plus, having a safe space for tummy time is a relief, especially as I know how crucial this activity is for their development.
Product Feature
- Soft, plush padding for baby’s comfort.
- Various textures and toys are attached for sensory development.
- Mirror for self-recognition.
- Pillow prop to help baby lift their head during tummy time.
- Foldable and easy to carry for on-the-go play.
Pros
- Engaging designs and toys to stimulate the baby’s curiosity.
- It helps strengthen the baby’s neck, shoulder, and arm muscles.
- Safe and comfortable space for tummy time.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- It is durable and lasts as the baby grows.
Cons
- It can be bulky to store when not in use.
- Some babies might outgrow the attached toys quickly.
- They may need additional toys to keep older babies engaged.
2. VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker
Oh, the joys of watching our little ones take their first steps! The VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker has been our loyal companion through this monumental phase. When my baby was younger, they would sit and play with the removable play panel, fascinated by the vibrant colors, buttons, and sounds.
As the months passed and they became more curious and mobile, the walker became an invaluable tool. It was like having a teacher and a cheerleader rolled into one, guiding them from sitting to standing and walking. My heart would swell with pride watching them push the walker, their tiny feet gaining confidence with each step. It was aiding them physically and mentally and sensorily; the walker was an explosion of learning opportunities. From numbers to shapes, music to mechanics – this was their little world of wonder.
Product Features
- Removable play panel for floor play or on-the-go fun.
- Features spinning gears, piano keys, and light-up shape sorters.
- Five colorful piano keys that play music and encourage creativity.
- 2 colorful spinning rollers, three shape sorters, and three light-up buttons.
- Adjustable speed control on wheels.
Pros
- Multifunctional: Acts as both a learning center and a walker.
- Encourages a variety of developmental skills, including motor skills and cognitive abilities.
- Durable and designed to grow with the child.
- It provides a smooth transition from sitting to walking.
- Engaging and keeps kids entertained for hours.
Cons
- It can be heavy for some babies to push initially.
- Requires batteries for the electronic functions.
- On some floor types, the wheels may slide or move too quickly.
3. MAGIFIRE Tummy Time Baby Water Mat
I WAS INTRIGUED AND SKEPTICAL when I first heard about the MAGIFIRE Tummy Time Baby Water Mat. A water mat? For a baby? But after seeing its effect on my little one, my skepticism vanished. Picture this: a sunlit room, your baby giggling and squirming on a water-filled mat, fascinated by the floating marine animals inside.
The mat’s excellent surface contrasts with their warm skin, and they are entranced. This isn’t just play; this is sensory exploration at its best. Their eyes sparkled with wonder the first time my baby was on it. They would try to catch the floating sea creatures, enhancing their hand-eye coordination. Plus, it gave a fresh twist to tummy time, which, let’s admit, can sometimes be a challenging task. Every day became a new underwater adventure, and the living room transformed into a baby-friendly marine world.
Product Features
- Inflatable water mat with vibrant sea-themed graphics.
- It contains floating foam marine animals inside for visual stimulation.
- Made of BPA-free, non-toxic, and leak-proof PVC materials.
- Easy to set up – fill the outer ring with air and the inner mat with water.
- Portable and easy to fold for storage or travel.
Pros
- It provides a sensory-rich tummy time experience.
- It enhances hand-eye coordination and muscle strength.
- Safe and made of high-quality, baby-friendly materials.
- Compact and travel-friendly.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- It needs careful handling to avoid punctures.
- Initial set-up can be time-consuming as it requires both air and water filling.
- Some babies might take time to warm up to the concept of a water mat.
4. Lovevery Play Gym Activity Gym and Play Mat
As new parents, we often find ourselves in a maze of endless baby products, each promising to be ‘the one.’ When we stumbled upon the Lovevery Play Gym Activity and Play Mat, it felt like we found a treasure. Unlike the typical play mats that last a couple of months, this one evolved with our baby.
The first thing that caught our eyes was its aesthetically pleasing design – no overly bright colors or jarring patterns. The mat transformed our living room corner into a serene, educational play zone. Each time our baby lay on it, it was clear they were on a journey of discovery. Every day was filled with new milestones, from grasping the wooden rings to staring at their reflection in the mirror. It wasn’t just a play mat but an ever-evolving landscape of learning and fun.
Product Features
- Five development zones that can be concealed or revealed for age-appropriate play.
- Made of sustainably harvested wood and organic cotton.
- It includes removable accessories: a wooden batting ring, teething rings, and a baby-safe mirror.
- Machine-washable mat, ensuring easy cleanup.
- It has a guide for age-appropriate activities to engage the baby from 0-12 months.
Pros
- Adaptable and grows with the baby, it is suitable for newborns up to toddlers.
- Ethically made with high-quality, baby-friendly materials.
- It encourages many developmental skills, from sensory stimulation to motor skills.
- Elegant design that seamlessly fits into modern home decor.
- Thoughtful inclusions make it a comprehensive play solution.
Cons
- It is priced higher than many other play gyms on the market.
- Larger footprint might be a concern for smaller living spaces.
- Assembly can be tricky.
5. Taf Toys Koala Infant Tummy-time
Navigating the world of baby products can sometimes feel like sifting through an endless sea of similar-looking items. But occasionally, you come across something that stands out – and that’s precisely what happened with the Taf Toys Koala Infant Tummy-time mat. The moment I unfurled the carpet, the charming design of a friendly koala greeted us. It was so much more than a mere mat; it felt like a mini adventure land for our baby. The plush texture immediately caught our little one’s attention, and they seemed eager to explore.
Over the weeks, it became evident that the Taf Toys Koala was not just a decorative piece but a carefully crafted playmate that kept our baby engaged and entertained during tummy time. From the rustling leaves to the mirror, every detail seemed to ignite curiosity in our baby’s eyes. The mat wasn’t just about fun but about fostering developmental milestones in the most delightful way.
Product Features
- Soft, padded koala-themed mat offering comfortable tummy time.
- Features a baby-safe mirror, encouraging self-recognition.
- It is designed with colorful and crinkly leaves for sensory stimulation.
- Comes with a detachable, teething leaf-shaped toy.
- Portable and easy to fold for on-the-go adventures.
Pros
- Engaging design that appeals to babies and holds their attention.
- Multifunctional with various textures and features, enhancing sensory development.
- Made of baby-friendly materials that are soft to the touch.
- The portable design allows for easy transportation, making it great for travel.
- Suitable for newborns and older babies alike.
Cons
- It might be smaller than some other tummy-time mats on the market.
- The plush fabric might get warm in hotter climates.
- It needs regular cleaning as the material can attract lint and hair.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Tummy Time Toy
Tummy time is crucial for babies, promoting physical development and strengthening neck and shoulder muscles. The suitable toy can enhance this experience, making it enjoyable and beneficial. Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing the perfect tummy time toy for your little one:
Safety First
Above all, the toy should be safe for the baby. Ensure it’s made of non-toxic materials, devoid of sharp edges, and doesn’t have small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Always check if the toy meets safety standards and read reviews from other parents for added assurance and be sure to disinfect your toys from time to time.
Stimulating Features
Babies are curious and love toys that offer a variety of textures, colors, and sounds. Consider toys with mirrors, different fabric textures, or gentle rattles that can hold a baby’s attention and stimulate their senses, making tummy time more engaging and longer-lasting.
Washability
Babies can be messy, and keeping their toys clean is essential. Opt for toys that are easy to wash or wipe down. This ensures that the toy can be quickly cleaned up even after drooling or spills and is safe for the baby to play with again.
Portability
Tummy time is wider than the home. Whether visiting grandparents or spending a day at the park, having a portable tummy time toy can be very handy. Choose something lightweight and easy to fold or carry, ensuring your baby can have fun and develop wherever you go.
Durability
Since babies can be enthusiastic explorers, the toys they play with must withstand some wear and tear. Durable toys ensure they last longer and remain safe, without the risk of parts breaking off.
Interactive Elements
As your baby grows, their interaction level with toys will increase. Consider toys that evolve with your baby’s development stages, like ones with buttons to press, flaps to lift, or areas to grasp. These prolong the toy’s relevance and enhance the baby’s motor skills and cognitive development.
Check out this fantastic video for tips on making tummy time both enjoyable and effortless for your baby!
Final Thoughts
Tummy time is an essential part of a baby’s growth and development. It helps strengthen neck, shoulder, and upper body muscles and is a precursor to critical milestones like rolling over, sitting up, and crawling.
For me, Bright Starts Tummy Time Prop & Play is the top choice in this category. What sets it apart is its thoughtful design tailored to provide both comfort and stimulation during tummy time sessions. The plush padding ensures the baby is comfortable, while the engaging toys and mirrors are strategically placed to capture their attention and encourage extended tummy time. Thanks for reading, and see you at the next one!
Looking for more toys? Check out these guides:
KidSpaceStuff is a site dedicated to helping parents find the best interior design, activities, and inspiration for their kids.
