Best Toys for Tummy Time by Age

Tummy time is essential for developing the neck, shoulder, core, and arm strength needed for rolling, sitting, and crawling. But many babies resist it — and choosing engaging props and toys for each stage can make the difference between a baby who tolerates tummy time and one who actively participates.

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Why Props and Toys Help

The challenge of tummy time is that it is physically effortful — lifting the head against gravity requires real muscular work. The right visual or tactile motivation gives the baby a reason to sustain that effort. Props can also modify the position to make early tummy time more accessible.

Toys and Props by Stage

At this stage, the baby's vision is limited to 20–30 cm and their primary motivation is social. The most effective tummy time support is a parent or caregiver lying face-down at the baby's level, making eye contact and talking. No toy competes with a known, loved face for a young infant.

Supporting prop: a small rolled towel or thin pillow under the chest helps babies who struggle with the flat position.

Position high-contrast black-and-white cards or books at eye level — propped against a pillow or taped to a low surface. The visual engagement motivates the baby to hold their head up to look.

A small, brightly coloured rattle or toy placed just within the baby's view (but not yet reach) encourages sustained head-lifting. Some babies will begin to bat at nearby toys in this position.

A tummy time mat with a built-in mirror allows babies to see their own face — a naturally engaging experience.

Once the baby is lifting their chest off the floor, place a favourite toy just beyond their reach. This motivates weight-shifting and reaching, which are precursors to rolling and crawling. Change the position of the toy (slightly left, slightly right) to encourage weight-shifting in different directions.

Other Useful Props

Tummy time cushion or wedge: places the baby at a slight incline, making head-lifting easier. Useful for very young babies or those with reflux.

Gym mat: many infant play gyms have a tummy time component — a mirror section, textures to feel on the ground, and hanging toys repositioned to eye level.

Parent's chest: lying a baby prone on the parent's chest (with parent reclined) is a gentle introduction to tummy time that most babies accept easily.

The right props and toys can make tummy time more comfortable, engaging, and productive. Newborns benefit most from the caregiver's face and voice; by 2–4 months, high-contrast images and simple toys at eye level motivate head-lifting; by 4–6 months, objects just out of reach encourage reaching and the beginning of purposeful movement. The most important prop at any age is a motivated baby — achieved through timing and engagement.