Baby gyms can be used from birth,' says Lilley. 'They are at their most useful from around three months to three years when so much of their time exploring and developing is on the floor and you want to protect them from those inevitable topples!' If you opt for a baby gym with musical elements, prepare for some serious ear worm nursery rhymes - but we promise your baby’s smiles will make up for it. Sitting up: The simple act of sitting can also be a huge challenge during the early days. 'They can help to practice sitting without getting a bruise when they topple,' adds Lilley. Create a circle of toys and place baby on their tummy in the middle, encouraging them to reach and stretch with fun activities. Many of our baby play mats come tummy time ready with built-in toys. You can use a baby gym or play mat from day one under supervision, but babies between three to six months old get the most from this type of sensory development. During this stage, your little one starts to develop hand-eye coordination, so reaching for dangling toys and playing with crinkly fabrics can be a fun challenge.

A baby needs love and three things – somewhere to sleep, a way to eat and somewhere to play!' says Sophie Lilley, Founder or Munchkin & Bear UK and The Baby Show exhibitor. 'A good play mat or baby gym creates a safe space to develop their muscles, learn how to move, practice balancing and have fun!' When choosing a baby activity gym, look out for colours, textures and fun features to help stimulate baby’s senses. Rattles, teethers and baby-safe mirrors encourage baby to reach and stretch, while overhead toy bars are great for lay and play fun. Some of our baby gyms feature prop pillows for a comfier tummy time, while others come with detachable toys for on the go. Look for non-toxic materials, says Lilley. 'Your little one will have their mouth on it after all!' she explains. 'Definitely think about how easily you can clean it too – popping one in the washing machine is great, but frankly the washing pile is huge when you have a newborn and then it still has to dry before you can use it again.' Storage Comfort: During the early years, the whole world feels like an adventure for little ones. 'A good sized, super squishy play mat allows your baby to explore the world without stress to their growing joints,' says Lilley. Floor play: The best way for your little one to develop their skills is to get down on the floor with them! 'Baby gyms also allows space for the whole family or some friends to join them and for everyone to be comfortable on the floor together.'

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While personal taste is always the deciding factor, consider the following tips before purchasing your baby gym: Comfort is key Playmats and baby gyms are suitable from birth, and make great developmental toys for those first few months. We have a great selection in our range, including Bright Starts and Fisher-Price gyms.

Think of a baby gym as an entry-level workout for little adventurers on their first foray into the big wide world of independent exploration. It’s also a great way for little people to develop the muscles they need to lift their heads and, eventually, to sit up, crawl and walk. And last but by no means least, it's a safe space to pop your little one when you need a moment's peace. The benefits of using a baby gym A baby gym is a padded play mat with an activity arch that includes games and sensory elements to catch your baby’s attention. They often come with a selection of hanging toys for your little one to work on their mental and physical development too.Tummy time: This is a crucial exercise for baby's motor, visual, and sensory development, but more on that below.