Learning to walk is a process that begins with pulling up, cruising and then attempting those first wobbly steps. And baby walking toys can help encourage this movement by giving your child support — and a bit of entertainment, too. “Baby walking toys are some of the first ‘active’ toys that toddlers engage with, helping them to feel confident and comfortable when they’re taking their first strides,” says Adrienne Appell, trend specialist at the Toy Industry Association.
“I like to think of these toys like a mobile coffee table,” explains Keri Wilmot, a pediatric occupational therapist and a toy expert. “They generally have a wide, sturdy base and can help toddlers learn to stand, squat down to play and take a few emerging steps so they can explore with ease,” she says.
Shop for baby walking toys that won’t flip over easily and are age-appropriate.
Here are 10 great choices:
- For Sitting to Walking Fun
The name of the Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker from VTech says it all! When your tot is still crawling, he can play on the floor with the removable activity panel. Then, when he’s ready to ambulate, pop it back on and let him maneuver the walker on his own. Illuminated buttons, musical tones and a pretty purple phone all add to the fun — and learning.
- A Smooth Ride
Playskool’s nifty Rocktivity Walk N Roll Rider converts from a walker to a ride-on toy and plays music each time your toddler pushes it along. The seat pops up and becomes a handle for new cruisers. When she rides, she can toot the horn and turn the key to rev the engine.
- Wheel in Style
Modern tots will covet the Y Pewi, a super cool 2-in-1 walker-rider from Yvolution. Your little one will love the easy-to-swivel casters, while you’ll be pleased that these wheels are covered with non-marking rubber so they won’t mark up your dining room floor.
- Classic Wagon, Toddler Version
The Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon is a beautiful red wagon your new cruiser will be thrilled to push along. The push-resistant design controls your toddler’s speed. Although the lack of turning radius keeps your child in a straight line, at least you don’t have to worry about him going off course.
- Clackity-Clack
Your little one won’t be able to sneak up on the cat with the Melissa & Doug Chomp & Clack Alligator Push Toy. This classic features wheel-activated wooden alligators who chomp their jaws as your child pushes it along.
- Walk and Sit
If your child needs a break from cruising around behind the HABA Discovery Wagon, she can take a seat in the front and explore the built-in toys. Bonus: The rear wheels have a brake you can activate to control speed.
- A Green Ride
Sustainable wood and nontoxic colors make the Plan Toys Van Walker earth-friendly, but it’s the bright yellow happy face that makes it a winner. Kids can load up their dolls and toys and give them a lift as they cruise from room to room.
- Call the Super
Have saw, will travel! The sweet HABA Carpenter Pixie Walker Wagon is also a work bench. It will inspire your tot to move all over the house to ‘fix’ anything that might be broken.
- Blocktastic!
Good looking, easy to assemble and fun to push? Yup, the Hape Block & Roll Push Cart has it all, including colorful blocks to stack and balance, as well as a wide, easy-to-grip handle to make cruising a breeze.
- Set the Standard
When you think of a classic walker, the Fisher-Price Activity Walker is what comes to mind. A spinning ball, doors to open and primary colors catch your toddler’s eye and make this affordable toy a must-have.
Remember, safety is paramount when it comes to mobile toys. Always supervise toddlers using walkers! Don’t let them out of your sight if they’re near stairs or in the kitchen.
Jennifer Kelly Geddes is a New York-based writer and editor who specializes in parenting, health and child development. She’s a frequent contributor to Care.com and the mom of two teen girls.