SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) As most new parents quickly learn, babies are constantly examining their surroundings and taking in the world around them, especially during play time. That’s why it’s so important that you have toys on hand to help them meet their developmental milestones. Here are a few to consider:

Play Gym

A multi-stage play gym can help your baby achieve their motor-skill milestones. Designed for ages 0-24 months, the Kick & Score Playgym is a great one to consider. During floor time, your baby can kick at the ball and bat at the mobile’s dangling shapes. As your baby strengthens core muscles during tummy time, they can stay mentally active and engaged, enjoying colorful characters, a dumbbell rattle, a twist-and-click kettle ball, color cards and more. Finally, during seated play, an interactive learning panel teaches colors, shapes and animals, and reinforces language skills. And because the panel detaches, you can take it along for on-the-go play and exploration.

Tummy Time Pillows

Tummy time has many important benefits for babies, and now you can support these crucial sessions with the Tummy Time Discovery Pillow by VTech, which is designed for little ones 0-24 months. This soft giraffe-shaped pillow provides comfortable support for your baby as they begin strengthening their neck muscles during tummy time and while learning to sit on their own. As your child grows, it’s great for take-along play. Its multiple textures, patterns and colors offer visual and tactile stimulation, and its light-up piano keys introduce numbers, colors, shapes, animals and music.

Learning Toys

The best toys for babies offer sights and sounds to capture their interest. They should also be able to be used in a variety of settings to keep kids entertained. For example, the Turn & Learn Ferris Wheel, for babies 6-24 months, spins, lights up, plays songs and more. It also teaches important vocabulary basics -- kids can push the lion, zebra and elephant buttons to hear the animals introduce themselves, numbers and objects. Best of all? When you stick the suction cup on a highchair tray or any smooth surface, it will stay put so you don’t have to keep picking it up off the floor.

Whether you’re building a registry or wanting to round out your baby gear wisely, be sure to select toys that actively engage your child and encourage them to explore new skills.

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