This holiday season, it's all about gifting items that are not only fun but also beneficial for your child's development. Choosing age-appropriate toys that match your child's developmental stage can help them improve their skills while they play. With 10+ years of experience as a pediatric physical therapist, these are in my opinion the best toys and products out there that will help support your baby’s development and grab their attention!
For infants who are just beginning to explore the world around them, tummy time toys are a great gift option. These toys encourage your little ones to lift their head and neck, thus strengthening their muscles. Moreover, these toys stimulate their sense of touch, sight, and hearing, thereby aiding their sensory development. Check out these tummy time toys on Amazon. I am also a huge fan of the new Tum Tum wedge that is the perfect size and materials to support baby’s floor time routine. The Rahoo baby lounger can also be flipped over and used as an incline for tummy time!
Once your baby starts sitting and crawling, it's time to introduce toys that promote these skills. Sitting and crawling toys typically include items that move and make noises, enticing your child to follow or chase after them. They not only improve your child's gross motor skills but also enhance their hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.
As your child progresses to standing and walking, toys that support them and setting up their environment is key. Push and pull toys, walkers, and standing play tables are excellent choices. My favorite is the Little Balance Box, made by a pediatric PT! These toys are designed to support your child's balance and coordination, aiding them in their journey to independent walking.
For busy toddlers who love to crawl, climb and move their bodies, these are some of my favorite toys. The pikler triangle can be expanded for more climbing and work on balance and body awareness. I love play couches, like the Nugget, for crashing into and jumping on for those cold Winter months that it's hard to keep them occupied indoors!
Thank you to all of my patients and families that I have been blessed to work with this year! And thank you for checking out my teeny tiny corner of the internet and supporting this mama's small business!
@inchstones_pt wishes you all a Happy Thanksgiving and a joyous holiday season!
*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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