When I first became a parent, I remember feeling unsure about what tummy time was actually meant to look like. I knew it was important, but I didn’t know which toys were truly helpful.
What I learned over time is that tummy time changes a lot during that first year. The toys and setups that work for a tiny newborn often won’t keep a six-month-old interested, and the right little additions can make a big difference in how confident your baby feels on their tummy.
These five ideas walk you through what to use and why, so you can support your baby from the early days right through to the wriggly, pre-crawling stage. If you’re looking for technique rather than toys, our guide to making tummy time easier covers that in more depth.
What you’ll find in this post
- The best tummy time toys for each stage, 0 to 12 months
- Simple setups that grow with your baby throughout the year
- A milestone table showing what tummy time helps build, and when
- Where to go if you want techniques rather than products
By stage
Tummy time toys and setups by age
You don’t need a huge selection, just a few thoughtful choices that match your baby’s stage.
1
0-3 months
Toys for newborns
At this stage, toys are mostly about comfort, familiarity and gentle stimulation. Newborns don’t need much, but a few simple items can help them settle into tummy time gradually.
- 👶 A baby-safe mirror placed in front of them, such as the URMYWO Tummy Time Baby Mirror Sensory Toy
- 👶 Soft, easy-to-grip sensory balls such as the Baby Clementoni Soft Touch and Play Sensory Ball
- 👶 A soft mat or blanket to lie on, giving them a comfortable base to lift their head
2
3-6 months
Toys for pushing up and reaching
Around this age, babies begin pushing up more confidently and reaching for nearby toys. Slightly more interactive options help keep them motivated.
- 👶 An activity gym such as the Fisher-Price Simply Senses Newborn Gym, whose hanging toys and mirror encourage reaching and visual tracking
- 👶 Soft balls or textured sensory toys, easy to bat at or hold during tummy time
3
6-9 months
Toys for pivoting and exploring
This is often the stage where babies start pushing up on their hands, pivoting, or showing more active exploration. Toys that move slightly or encourage reaching can be very motivating.
- 👶 Soft or lightly textured balls to reach for or bat
- 👶 Stacking cups or soft blocks to push, reach for, or knock over
- 👶 A gently moving toy such as the Bright Starts Wobble Bobble Crawl and Chase Ball
4
9-12 months
Toys for almost-crawling
By this age, babies often begin crawling or showing strong signs of wanting to get moving. Toys that roll or encourage forward movement can support these new skills.
- 👶 Rolling or push-and-crawl toys such as the Wobble Bobble Crawl and Chase Ball
- 👶 A larger play mat or gym such as the VEVOR Baby Play Gym Mat
- 👶 Soft toys or lightweight cushions to crawl towards, pull up on, or reach for
5
Any age
Setups that grow with your baby
Some items work throughout the entire first year and can be used long after tummy time has begun, saving you from buying something new at every stage.
- 👶 A washable play mat or gym, creating a safe space for tummy time, sitting, and later crawling
- 👶 Soft sensory toys, enjoyed at every stage
- 👶 Rolling or chase toys, useful for early reaching and later crawling
Age |
What Babies Typically Do |
What Tummy Time Helps |
|---|---|---|
|
0–3 months |
Lifts head briefly, turns head to the side |
Builds neck strength, opens the chest, reduces flat spots |
|
3–6 months |
Pushes up on forearms, reaches for toys |
Strengthens shoulders and arms and supports rolling |
|
6–9 months |
Pushes up on hands, pivots in circles |
Prepares for crawling with stronger core muscles and coordination |
|
9–12 months |
Crawls, pulls to stand |
Builds core and back strength for cruising and walking |
Tummy time gets easier with the right tools at the right stage.
You don’t need a huge selection of toys, just a few thoughtful choices that match your baby’s age and abilities. The most important part is creating a safe space where your baby feels confident and supported as they learn new skills.
More on baby core strength and development
Part of our full guide to building your baby’s core strength at home.
Common questions about tummy time toys
Written by a mum & primary school teacher
With years in the classroom and a family of my own, I write about the practical, honest side of early childhood, because parents deserve real information, not just reassurance.
