As a new dad, it can be extremely difficult to find more than a few moments of undisturbed time for ourselves, especially during our child’s first few months. There’s plenty of research regarding new moms that shows how important it is to pursue hobbies and take time off for self-care, but flipping through a parenting book rarely reflects on a father’s struggle. Everyone needs a break.
That’s why we’ve researched some of the most effective, affordable toys to help with your child’s language development, motor skills, coordination, and strength while you spend a little well-deserved time watching the game.
1. The Fisher-Price Infant-To-Toddler Rocker — Birth to 40 Lbs
We know you have that special chair that you always lounge in for each game and so should your baby. This lightweight, machine-washable rocker has 2 reclining positions and vibrates to soothe your little one. The removable toy bar will keep them learning and having a blast.
2. Oball Grab & Rattle Football — 3 Months and Up
The classic toy football rattle is an inexpensive way to help your baby learn hand-eye coordination and increase finger strength. The colorful football catches their attention and the exciting rattle sounds pique their curiosity. They can even shake the ball to help cheer on the boys with Dad, or you make them part of the team by rolling it their way.
3. MAGIFIRE Tummy Time Baby Water Mat Infant Toy Inflatable Play Mat — 3 Months and Up
Tummy Time is incredibly important for your baby’s development. It strengthens their head, neck, and shoulders and boosts motor skills. This 100% leak-proof water mat is easy to fill and inflate and even easier to empty and pack up. Your little one will increase their hand-eye coordination while exploring new squishy textures with their fishy friends.
4. Lamaze Peek-A-Boo Forest, Fun Interactive Baby Book — First Year
This interactive soft book allows your adventurous little reader to explore the Peek-A-Boo Forest. The crinkly texture and bright colors will excite your tiny tot while the new patterns promote visual development. Take a break in-between plays or at halftime to grab your baby and help foster their vocabulary and imagination by reading the story together.
5. Fisher-Price Rock-a-stack and Baby’s First Blocks Bundle — 6 Months and Up
This bundle combines two traditional toys that have helped develop hand-eye coordination and dexterity for decades. Sorting blocks help your child learn coordinated play, and when you’re ready to join in on the fun you can help them identify the colors and shapes. The stacking ring is an iconic toy that helps babies learn relative size and coordination.
6. Playskool Poppin’ Pals Pop-up Activity Toy — 9 Months and Up
Let’s be real, once your child is crawling and getting into things, there’s even less time to watch the game. Thankfully, the Poppin’ Pals toy can help keep them exploring their toys instead of the bookshelf or every dresser drawer in the house. Fine motor skills are learned as little hands easily push, pull, twist, and push on the buttons to pop up their animal friends.
7. VTech Sit-To-Stand Learning Walker — 9 Months and Up
Embrace it—your soon-to-be-walker is on the move. This interactive toy promotes creativity and will have your baby walking in no time. You can even remove the activity panel for on-the-floor fun.
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