Best Toys to Encourage Crawling & Walking
Watching your baby learn to crawl, stand, and eventually take those magical first steps is one of the most exciting parts of parenthood. But did you know the right toys can make this process smoother—and more fun?
From tummy-time motivators to push-along walkers, these toys are not just entertaining—they’re tools that build strength, balance, and coordination.
Below, you’ll find the best developmental toys to encourage crawling and walking, plus tips on when and how to use them.
πΎ When Do Babies Start Crawling & Walking?
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Crawling: 6 to 10 months
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Cruising (holding furniture): 9 to 12 months
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Walking: 12 to 15 months (some earlier, some later!)
Every baby is different, so don’t worry if yours moves at their own pace. What matters most is gentle encouragement and a safe space to explore.
π€Έ♂️ Best Toys to Encourage Crawling
π 1. VTech Wiggle and Crawl Ball
This colorful, moving ball lights up and rolls just out of reach—motivating babies to chase it.
π Shop on Amazon
Why It Works:
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Plays music and lights up to grab attention
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Rolls unpredictably to encourage crawling
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Durable and safe for little hands
π§Έ 2. Tummy Time Mirror with Crinkle Toys
Tummy time builds upper body strength needed for crawling. A baby-safe mirror keeps them engaged longer.
π Shop on Amazon
Features Parents Love:
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Visual stimulation
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Crinkly sounds and bright colors
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Soft and portable
π’ 3. Infantino Textured Crawl Toy Turtle
Pull-along turtle encourages your baby to follow it around, strengthening arms, legs, and coordination.
π Shop on Amazon
π΅ 4. Fisher-Price Crawl-After Learning Fox
Interactive movement and music that starts with a button push—then scoots forward to encourage chase.
π Shop on Amazon
Pro Tip: Use it during tummy time or carpet play to gently push your baby toward motion!
πΆ♀️ Best Toys to Encourage Walking
π¦ 5. VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker
This is one of the most popular baby walkers for a reason. It grows with your baby—from floor play to supported standing and walking.
π Shop on Amazon
Why It’s a Must-Have:
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Sturdy handle for balance
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Wheels with adjustable speed
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Interactive buttons, music, and shapes
π¦ 6. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Stride-to-Ride Lion
This adorable lion lets baby walk behind or ride on top once they’re ready. A two-in-one walking toy!
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π 7. Wooden Baby Walker with Blocks
A classic wooden push toy that encourages walking while also helping develop motor skills with blocks.
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Why Parents Love It:
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Non-toxic wood
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Encourages balance + imaginative play
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Quiet wheels for indoor use
πΎ 8. LeapFrog Scout’s Get Up & Go Walker
A mix of activity panel and walker with songs, colors, and animal sounds. Great for babies learning to stand and step.
π Shop on Amazon
π Bonus: Tips for Encouraging Crawling & Walking
✅ 1. Create a Safe Play Zone
Use a soft mat or carpeted area free from sharp corners or obstacles. Let baby explore freely with toys nearby.
π Foam Baby Play Mat Puzzle Tiles
✅ 2. Limit Time in Bouncers and Swings
These are fine in moderation, but too much time can slow motor development. Floor time is best!
✅ 3. Celebrate the Little Wins
Clapping, smiling, and cheering when your baby moves—even a wiggle—helps build confidence and excitement to try again.
π§Ό Toy Safety Checklist
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Choose BPA-free, non-toxic materials
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Avoid toys with small, detachable parts
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Clean regularly with baby-safe disinfectants
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Always supervise when using push toys or walkers
π Babyganics Toy & Highchair Cleaner Spray
Final Thoughts: Let Play Lead the Way
You don’t need fancy gear to help your baby crawl or walk. What matters most is interactive play, freedom to move, and your support every step of the way.
These toys not only encourage movement—they turn learning into fun. So grab a ball, a mirror, or a baby-safe walker, and get ready to cheer those milestone moments!
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