Toy Suggestions

Walking.

Expected Age Range: 11-15 months, or so. Average age is 12 months.

For all you accessory lovers out there — it’s time to shop for shoes!

First Shoes

When choosing a shoe for your new walker, look for these features:
Non-slip protective sole: Look for a non-slip sole that is protective and stable.
Sturdy heel cup: Keeps the heel in place, preventing the foot from sliding around and supporting the ankle.
Flexible forefoot: Allows the foot to adapt to uneven surfaces, and allows a bend at the toes that occurs with a heel-toe walking stride.
Wide toe box: Allows the toes to spread out and help with balance. It also is important for toe development and toe nail growth to have room to move.
Laces or straps: Keeps the shoes safely on feet.

Buy on Amazon

Pull Toy

Pull toys are great for advancing walking skills. I particularly like ones like this alligator because they move and make a little noise when your child pulls it along. The cause and effect is exciting and motivating for little ones.

• A Note About Affiliate Links

  When you shop using the links above, Physical Therapy for Infants earns a very small portion of what you spend at no additional cost to you.

  When curating a list of toys, I create a list of toys that I love first, and then I look to see if affiliate links are available for those items. Not the other way around. This way, I make sure I am recommending the items that I use and love.

  The additional income from these affiliate links helps me be able to continue to put the hours in to create educational content that is free for families that cannot invest in paid materials.

• A Note About Sustainability

  Sustainability and mindful consumption are a big value of mine. I know that providing for and supporting a developing baby can bring a flood of new items into your home, many of which are essential. And while toy are tools for learning, discovery, and meaningful movement, I encourage you to be mindful in selecting the toys that are right for your family.

  I encourage you to consider looking for some of these toys second-hand before purchasing new. If you decide to purchase new, using the Amazon affiliate links above, please consider using the AmazonSmiles program to give back.

  I try to select toys that can be used for open ended play, which prolongs the lifespan of the use. If your family outgrows their toys, that’s a great time to donate them so they can benefit another child.