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 or how to make it enjoyable for my baby. 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.
Tummy Time Toys for Newborns (0–3 Months)
At this stage, toys are mostly about comfort, familiarity and gentle stimulation. Newborns do not need much, but a few simple items can help them settle into tummy time gradually.
Great options:
👶 A baby safe mirror placed in front of them. For example: 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 your baby a comfortable base for lifting their head and exploring early movement
These simple tools give newborns something interesting to look at while supporting early head and neck strength.
2.
Tummy Time Toys for 3–6 Months
Around this age, babies begin pushing up more confidently and reaching for nearby toys. Slightly more interactive options help keep them motivated.
Great options:
👶 An activity gym such as the Fisher Price Simply Senses Newborn Gym. The hanging toys and mirror encourage reaching, grasping and visual tracking
👶 Soft balls or textured sensory toys like the Baby Clementoni ball above, which are easy to bat at or hold during tummy time or back play
These toys help strengthen arms, shoulders and core muscles while keeping babies interested as their movement skills progress.
Tummy Time Toys for 6–9 Months
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.
Great options:
👶 Soft or lightly textured balls to reach for or bat
👶 Stacking cups or soft blocks that babies can push, reach for or knock over
👶 A gently moving toy such as the Bright Starts Wobble Bobble Crawl and Chase Ball which encourages little ones to stretch, reach and move with purpose
These toys support early crawling skills and help babies practise balance and coordination.
4.
Tummy Time Toys for 9–12 Months
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.
Great options:
👶 Rolling or push and crawl toys such as the Bright Starts Wobble Bobble Crawl and Chase Ball
👶 A larger play mat or gym that provides space to explore, such as the VEVOR Baby Play Gym Mat
👶 Soft toys or lightweight obstacles like cushions that encourage crawling, pulling to stand or reaching
These options help babies build the strength, coordination and confidence they need as they transition from tummy time to crawling.
5. Tummy Time Setups That Work at Any Age
Some items grow with your baby throughout the entire first year and can be used long after tummy time has begun.
Useful setups and toys include:
👶 A washable play mat or gym like the VEVOR Baby Play Gym Mat above, which creates a safe and comfortable space for tummy time, sitting and crawling
👶 Soft sensory toys such as the Baby Clementoni Sensory Ball which babies enjoy exploring at every stage
👶 Rolling or chase toys like the Wobble Bobble Crawl and Chase Ball which work for early reaching and later crawling
These flexible options help you build an environment that supports your baby both now and as they grow.
Tummy Time Milestones (0–12 Months)
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 |
Our Final Thoughts
Tummy time becomes much easier when you have the right tools at the right stage. You do not 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.
Every baby develops differently. Follow your baby’s lead, keep sessions relaxed and celebrate each small moment of progress.
Take a look at our main guide for even more ideas:
5 Ways to Make Tummy Time Easier and More Enjoyable for Your Baby
