When your baby begins to show signs of wanting to pull themselves up, it's a major milestone in their development. This is the perfect time to introduce standing toys that can help them practice and develop essential core and leg muscles. Whether your baby is just starting to explore standing or has already taken their first steps, these toys will provide interactive and engaging ways to promote balance and strength in a fun and safe environment.
Best Standing Toys for 7 to 12 Months Old
Here's our pick of the best standing toys for 7 to 12 month old babies:
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Baby Einstein Curiosity Table: This table is not only visually appealing, but it's also functional, featuring interactive elements such as lights and sounds to capture your baby's attention and inspire curious learning.
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VTech Magic Star Learning Table: This versatile toy can act as a seating chart, tummy time toy, or stand-up walker, offering multiple ways to engage your baby's muscles and promote cognitive development.
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Bright_starts Having a Ball Get Rollin' Activity Table: The activity table'sballs and musical notes will keep your baby entertained while they practice standing and learning to balance.
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VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker: This learner Walker provides gentle support as your baby learns to stand and encourages functional play through its various activities and textures.
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Learning Advantage Crocodile Activity Wall Panels: These colorful and engaging panels feature interactive games and activities that promote balance and coordination, making learning fun and enjoyable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Standing Toy
When selecting a standing toy for your baby, consider the following factors to ensure their safety and enjoyment:
Safety: Look for standing toys that are appropriately sized for your baby's age and have sturdy construction that can support their weight. Avoid toys with small parts that could pose a choke hazard.
Versatility: Choose a toy that can provide multiple ways to play, such as having a sit-to-stand action or including interactive elements like lights and sounds.
Interactivity: A good standing toy will engage your baby's senses and imagination. Look for toys that encourage your baby to use their hands and feet in a purposeful way.
Durability: Ensure that the toy you choose can withstand the rigors of your baby's play and won't be damaged easily.
How to Use Standing Toys to Promote Walking
Once your baby has developed the confidence and strength to try standing, standing toys can help them transition from crawling to walking. Here are some tips on how to use these toys to encourage physical development:
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Start Slow: Let your baby get used to standing slowly and safely. Use toys that require minimal support, like the Curiosity Table, and gradually increase the difficulty as your baby becomes more comfortable.
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Provide Support: As your baby stands, hold their hands or provide a small push to help them find their balance. This will help them build the confidence and muscle strength needed to stand independently.
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Encourage Exploration: Allow your baby to explore the toy from different angles and positions to help them develop a strong foundation for balancing and coordination.
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Use as a Teaching Tool: Standing toys can also be used as teaching tools to help introduce new concepts such as cause and effect and problem solving, while encouraging your baby to use their imagination.
Safety Precautions
When using standing toys, always keep an eye on your baby to ensure they are using the toy correctly and are not putting any unnecessary strain on their body. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
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Avoid Overexertion: Watch for signs of fatigue in your baby, such as listlessness or a willingness to stop, and take a break if necessary.
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Ensure Stability: Make sure the toy is secure and won't tip over, especially if your baby is holding onto it or leaning on it for balance.
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Be Mindful of Small_parts: Keep small toys and detachable parts out of reach of infants to prevent potential choking hazards.
By introducing standing toys into your baby's playroom, you're providing them with a fun and engaging way to practice and develop their balance and standing skills. Remember to always supervise and be present to ensure their safety and well-being.
