Floor gyms with flashing lights, music and hanging parts to look at
Activity Quilts
Toys with high-contrast geometric designs
Recorded songs and music
Toys that encourage physical development such as kicking
Why your baby will enjoy this toy now:
Kicking comes naturally, and exercises the muscles your child will use one day for walking. Regular playtime games that encourage kicking are a good start—be sure to put your baby in a light nappy or none at all so she can move her legs freely.
What you can do to help your baby learn more with:
Position your baby in front of this toy so her feet are within easy reach of it. Lean over and playfully talk to her. She'll be so pleased to have your attention that she'll start to kick the toy and make exciting things happen!
Even at this young age, you can introduce the concept of cause-and-effect. When she kicks say, "Oh, look what you just did! You made it light up!" or "You made the music play!" Eventually, with more playful encouragement from you, your child will make a very important connection: I did it! I made that happen!
Take time to point out some of the toy's features—identify the colours, point out the faces. This will help baby realize there's a connection between things and words.
All children develop at their own pace, and reach milestones at different times. The highlights mentioned in this web site are meant as approximate guidelines only. If you have any questions about your child's development, consult your healthcare provider.
