What is an activity gym?
An activity gym is an early years toy. It is one of the first toys a baby may use once
it begins to acknowledge the outside world and focus on the surroundings around it. The
baby is placed under the gym and the activities on the gym are designed to interest and
stimulate the baby.
Do I need one?
An activity gym is not an essential item. It is perfectly possible to create an
interesting and stimulating environment for your baby without a purpose-built toy.
However, activity gyms can be fun and exciting for a small baby and are one way in which
to safely introduce her to new colours, sounds and textures. They can encourage hand/eye
co-ordination and help babies begin to realise that when they move or when they push, prod
or squeeze things something happens!
What to look for
Activity gyms come in a variety of styles. They may be plastic or fabric. Some have an
integral mat for the baby to lie on. Some collapse and fold and can be stored in an
included bag, others are dismantled for storage. The most important things to look for are
interesting, colourful accessories which provide a variety of texture, sound and visual
experiences for your child.
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