Children learn about the world around them through interactions and play," says April Twenhafel, MS, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Newport Beach, Calif. "It's through this sensory experience of exploration that a child develops physically, mentally, and emotionally."

As toddlers begin pulling themselves up to a standing position, parents can replace the seat with a winding ramp to race the smiling roller bugs. And since there are no wheels involved, you won't have to worry about your little one tripping or falling while using this toy. Keep in mind that it takes a few minutes to assemble (with a screwdriver), but all in all, it provides ample opportunities for children to strengthen motor skills, engage in sensory play and explore their curiosity. This activity table is suitable for children ages 9 months to 3 years old.

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When it comes to all the toys in this broad category, Dr. Le says she prefers activity centers. "These are the safest alternatives to baby walkers," she tells Parents. "In a stationary center, a child can bounce and swivel as well as be entertained. Other activity centers encourage babies to pull [themselves up] to stand and develop muscle strength as they walk around the table to play." Material

It's important to note that assembling this walker can be a challenge. Once the parts are connected, they can't be rearranged, which has left some parents installing the activity center upside down. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully during assembly so that your child will get the most out of this three-in-one toy. According to the manufacturer, it's suitable for children ages 9 months to 3 years old. According to Dr. Le, it's possible. "Know that despite [the] name, walkers were not meant to encourage babies to walk," she explains. "In fact, they can delay motor development since they can prohibit children from developing the strength and balance needed to be able to start walking." How do I encourage my baby to walk?Why We Like It: With a removable seat, this activity center transforms as your child grows to keep the features age appropriate and entertaining. Fortunately, there are plenty of safe alternatives out there. When searching for a baby walker alternative, parents should look for an activity table or push toy that allows a baby to walk or stand behind or beside it. Because they're often bigger than the average toy, you want something that isn't an eyesore and fits in your home nicely. And since a majority of today's activity tables and push toys have musical features, be sure to select one that plays tunes you don't mind hearing (over and over again).

When choosing a baby entertainer or baby activity walker, look out for features that can spark your little one’s curiosity. Playful music, flashing lights, mirrors and bright colours stimulate baby’s senses, while entertainers with animal toys or baby walkers with steering wheels can help encourage imaginative play. Bat-at toys, teethers and bead chasers are great for your child’s developing hand-eye coordination and other fine motor skills. Some baby entertainers, like the Fisher-Price jumperoo, feature seats that spin 360˚ so baby has even more to explore. By now, your little one is improving their ball skills, riding a trike, using pencils and scissors and drawing. They will be learning to balance on one foot and hop soon! Shop 3 - 4 yearsYour active baby will now want to explore everything and everywhere! Use simple language to help encourage that first word and ensure playtime includes fun games like peek-a-boo. Shop 9 - 12 months Many brands still call their toys "baby walkers," but they look nothing like the type of sit-in walkers doctors advise against. Instead, they may be push toys with wheels and handles toddlers can use to practice standing and walking. Or they may be stationary activity centers with several attractions that entice young children to stand up and practice their balance. Some toys may also offer a combination of ways to use them, with activities younger babies can play with during tummy time or sitting up on the ground, as well as legs or wheels to attach when they get older. Consider your space, your child's developmental level, and how long you want to be able to use this toy when deciding what type to get.