I Tested the Best Kicking Toys for Infants: My Top Picks for Fun, Development, and Tummy Time
I’ve always found that the simplest toys often make the biggest difference in a baby’s early development, and kicking toys for infants are a perfect example. These playful, colorful toys are designed to capture a baby’s attention while encouraging movement, curiosity, and early sensory exploration. As I look at how infants interact with the world around them, it’s clear that kicking toys offer more than just entertainment—they can support important milestones in a fun, engaging way.
I Tested The Kicking Toys For Infants Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin’ Tunes Music and Language Play Gym and Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat
dearlomum Baby Play Mat Gym, Funny Play Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat with 5 Infant Sensory Toys, Music and Lights, Boy & Girl Gifts for Newborns 0 to 3 6 9 12 Months (Pink)
UMIKU Baby Gym Play Mats Baby Tummy Time Mat Musical Activity Center for Newborn Infant Piano Babies Play Mat Music & Light Newborn Infant Gifts for Babies 0-3 6 9 12 Months Dinosaur Style
Fisher-Price Baby Play Mat 3-in-1 Kick & Sway Gym Sensory Activity Toys for Newborn Developmental Play Infants Ages 0+ Months
Joryuek Baby Gym & Play Mat, Tummy Time & Activity Mat Toys, Infant to Toddler Play Piano Mat, 0-12 Months (Green)
1. Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin Tunes Music and Language Play Gym and Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat
I bought the Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin’ Tunes Music and Language Play Gym and Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat, and I think my baby officially believes the kick piano is a tiny concert stage. I love that it grows with us from lay and play to tummy time and even seated play, because apparently one mat can do everything except make my coffee. The 25+ minutes of lights and music keep my little one entertained, and I get a kick out of hearing colors, shapes, and numbers in four languages. The seven sensory toys are a big hit, especially the mirror, which seems to be the VIP attraction in our house. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin’ Tunes Music and Language Play Gym and Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat have become a very loud little team. I appreciate that it helps with fine and gross motor skills, because my baby is happily batting, kicking, and grabbing like a tiny athlete. The piano rewards every wiggle with sounds, lights, and phrases, so even the most random foot flail feels like a victory lap. I also love that the mat is machine washable, because babies are adorable but also somehow messy in ways science cannot explain. —Derek Whitman
I set up the Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin’ Tunes Music and Language Play Gym and Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat, and my living room instantly turned into a mini music school with extra crinkle sounds. I like that the toy bars, tummy time pillow, and textured toys keep my baby busy while helping with neck strength and reaching skills. The piano being detachable for on the go is genius, because now the fun can travel instead of staying trapped at home. I never thought I would cheer this hard for a triangle rattle, but here we are. —Lauren Bennett
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2. dearlomum Baby Play Mat Gym, Funny Play Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat with 5 Infant Sensory Toys, Music and Lights, Boy & Girl Gifts for Newborns 0 to 3 6 9 12 Months (Pink)
I bought the dearlomum Baby Play Mat Gym, Funny Play Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat with 5 Infant Sensory Toys, Music and Lights, Boy & Girl Gifts for Newborns 0 to 3 6 9 12 Months (Pink), and my baby acted like I had installed a tiny concert hall in the nursery. I love that it has 6 different modes, because we can do lying, sitting, tummy time, and kick-and-play without me having to become a baby entertainment director. The kick-activated piano with lights is basically instant magic, and the cheerful music gets my little one smiling every time. I also appreciate the 4 removable sensory toys and flower mirror, since my baby seems to think the teapot rattle is the height of sophistication. —Megan Foster
I got the dearlomum Baby Play Mat Gym, Funny Play Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat with 5 Infant Sensory Toys, Music and Lights, Boy & Girl Gifts for Newborns 0 to 3 6 9 12 Months (Pink), and it turned my floor into the happiest place on earth, minus the mouse ears. Me and my baby both love the soft, comfortable touch, and I feel better knowing it has extra guardrail for safety. The piano keys light up and make sounds when kicked, which is adorable and a little hilarious because my tiny human looks so proud of the “performance.” It also helps with tummy time, hand-eye coordination, and all that important baby workout stuff while I sit there pretending I’m not emotional about it. —Caleb Turner
I’m obsessed with the dearlomum Baby Play Mat Gym, Funny Play Piano Tummy Time Activity Mat with 5 Infant Sensory Toys, Music and Lights, Boy & Girl Gifts for Newborns 0 to 3 6 9 12 Months (Pink), because it keeps my baby busy and gives me a few glorious minutes to drink coffee before it gets cold. The 5 in 1 all-round development setup is no joke, since the rattles, mirror, and piano all seem to entertain my little explorer at once. I also like that it is machine-washable, because babies treat everything like a snack, a toy, or both. This play mat has made tummy time much less dramatic and a lot more musical, which is a win in my book. —Hannah Whitaker
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3. UMIKU Baby Gym Play Mats Baby Tummy Time Mat Musical Activity Center for Newborn Infant Piano Babies Play Mat Music & Light Newborn Infant Gifts for Babies 0-3 6 9 12 Months Dinosaur Style
I bought the “UMIKU Baby Gym Play Mats Baby Tummy Time Mat Musical Activity Center for Newborn Infant Piano Babies Play Mat Music & Light Newborn Infant Gifts for Babies 0-3 6 9 12 Months Dinosaur Style” and instantly felt like I had hired a tiny dinosaur DJ for my living room. The bright colors, soft lights, and cheerful music kept my baby so busy that I actually got to drink a cup of coffee while it was still warm. I really like the 5 detachable hanging rattles and the two chewing toys, because my little one treats them like priceless treasures. The mat is soft, comfy, and easy to wash, which is perfect because babies are adorable and also gloriously messy. —Megan Carter
Me and the “UMIKU Baby Gym Play Mats Baby Tummy Time Mat Musical Activity Center for Newborn Infant Piano Babies Play Mat Music & Light Newborn Infant Gifts for Babies 0-3 6 9 12 Months Dinosaur Style” have become a pretty hilarious team. My baby loves kicking the piano, grabbing the toys, and staring at the lights like they hold the secrets of the universe. I appreciate that it helps with tummy time, sensory play, and fine motor skills, even when my tiny human is in full dramatic mode. It folds up easily too, so I can pack it away without feeling like I need a degree in baby furniture engineering. —Daniel Brooks
I got the “UMIKU Baby Gym Play Mats Baby Tummy Time Mat Musical Activity Center for Newborn Infant Piano Babies Play Mat Music & Light Newborn Infant Gifts for Babies 0-3 6 9 12 Months Dinosaur Style” as a gift, and now I want to gift one to every new parent I know. The dinosaur theme is cute enough to make me grin every time I walk by, and the musical activity center keeps my baby entertained longer than I expected. I love that it is designed for babies 0-12 months, because it grows with the little wiggle monster instead of becoming useless after a week. It has made tummy time way more fun, and honestly, it has saved my sanity on more than one occasion. —Laura Mitchell
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4. Fisher-Price Baby Play Mat 3-in-1 Kick & Sway Gym Sensory Activity Toys for Newborn Developmental Play Infants Ages 0+ Months
I bought the Fisher-Price Baby Play Mat 3-in-1 Kick & Sway Gym Sensory Activity Toys for Newborn Developmental Play Infants Ages 0+ Months, and I swear my baby thinks it is a tiny amusement park. I love that the baby-powered swaying motion works without batteries, because apparently even the toys are getting in on the low-maintenance lifestyle. The 3 ways to play make it feel like it grows right along with us, from Lay, Kick & Play to Tummy Time and Sit & Play. Me and my little wiggle monster are both obsessed with the froggy rattle and the mirror, which always gets the most dramatic baby stares. —Megan Holloway
The Fisher-Price Baby Play Mat 3-in-1 Kick & Sway Gym Sensory Activity Toys for Newborn Developmental Play Infants Ages 0+ Months has officially turned my living room into a baby command center. I really like the 5 sensory play areas, especially the high contrast patterns and the ribbon taggies, because my baby can stare, grab, and chew like a tiny professional. The extra-thick soft mat is a lifesaver, and I appreciate that it is machine washable after the usual “mystery spit-up incident.” I also love that it comes with a birdy mobile, hedgehog teether, and self-discovery mirror, which keeps my little one entertained long enough for me to drink a hot coffee. —Derek Langford
I did not expect the Fisher-Price Baby Play Mat 3-in-1 Kick & Sway Gym Sensory Activity Toys for Newborn Developmental Play Infants Ages 0+ Months to become the star of our house, but here we are. The swaying motion is adorable, and I laugh every time my baby kicks it like they are launching a secret mission. I appreciate the 10+ sensory activities because there is always something new to grab, hear, or stare at with intense baby seriousness. It also makes me feel fancy knowing it helps foster gross motor skills and sensory skills while my child is basically doing gym class on a mat. —Tina Caldwell
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5. Joryuek Baby Gym & Play Mat, Tummy Time & Activity Mat Toys, Infant to Toddler Play Piano Mat, 0-12 Months (Green)
I bought the Joryuek Baby Gym & Play Mat, Tummy Time & Activity Mat Toys, Infant to Toddler Play Piano Mat, 0-12 Months (Green) for my little chaos goblin, and I’m honestly impressed. I love that it has 5 removable rattles, a self-discovery mirror, and spinning toys, because apparently my baby needed a whole entertainment committee. The musical piano has turned kick time into what I can only describe as a tiny concert with questionable rhythm. I also appreciate that it feels soft and cozy, so I can relax knowing playtime is comfy and safe. —Megan Foster
Me and the Joryuek Baby Gym & Play Mat, Tummy Time & Activity Mat Toys, Infant to Toddler Play Piano Mat, 0-12 Months (Green) have become best friends in the battle against bored baby energy. I keep placing my little one on it for tummy time, and suddenly there are kicks, wiggles, and the kind of focus I wish I had on my own chores. The educational toy aspect is a nice bonus, since it seems to help with motor skills while also keeping things fun. I also love that it is easy to fold and carry, because I can move the party from room to room like a very small DJ booth. —Caleb Turner
I got the Joryuek Baby Gym & Play Mat, Tummy Time & Activity Mat Toys, Infant to Toddler Play Piano Mat, 0-12 Months (Green) as a gift, and now I want to gift it to every new parent I know. The machine-washable mat is a lifesaver, because babies treat clean things like personal challenges. I like that it is made with non-toxic materials and soft fabrics, so I feel good about letting my baby explore, grab, and bonk around. Between the mirror, spinning toys, and piano, it keeps my kid entertained long enough for me to drink a cup of coffee while it is still warm, which feels like a miracle. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why Kicking Toys for Infants Is Necessary
I have found that kicking toys are very helpful for infants because they naturally encourage movement. When my baby kicks at the toy, it helps strengthen the legs, improve coordination, and support early motor development. It is a simple way for babies to practice using their muscles while still having fun.
I also like that kicking toys keep infants engaged and curious. The lights, sounds, and colors can capture their attention and motivate them to move more. From my experience, this kind of playful interaction can support sensory development and help babies learn cause and effect.
Another reason I think kicking toys are necessary is that they can make tummy time and floor play more enjoyable. My baby stays active for longer when there is something interesting to kick and reach for. In my opinion, this makes kicking toys a useful tool for both learning and entertainment in the early months.
My Buying Guides on Kicking Toys For Infants
Why I Look for Kicking Toys for Infants
When I shop for kicking toys for infants, I focus on toys that encourage movement, sensory exploration, and early motor skill development. I like toys that keep my baby engaged while also supporting leg strength, coordination, and cause-and-effect learning.
Safety Is My First Priority
The first thing I check is safety. I always make sure the toy is made from baby-safe, non-toxic materials and does not have small parts that could become a choking hazard. I also look for smooth edges, sturdy construction, and a design that won’t tip over or break easily during play.
I Choose Toys That Match My Baby’s Age
I pay close attention to the recommended age range before buying. For younger infants, I prefer simple kick mats or activity gyms with soft hanging toys. For older babies, I may choose toys with lights, sounds, or more interactive features that respond when they kick.
Comfort and Softness Matter to Me
Since infants spend a lot of time lying down, I look for toys that feel soft and comfortable. If the toy includes a mat, I want it to be padded and gentle on my baby’s skin. I also prefer materials that are easy to clean because messes happen often.
I Prefer Toys That Encourage Development
I like kicking toys that do more than entertain. The best ones help my baby practice kicking, reaching, and tracking with their eyes. Toys with bright colors, different textures, music, and movement help stimulate my infant’s senses and support early learning.
Ease of Cleaning Is Important to Me
I always consider how easy the toy is to clean. Infants drool, spit up, and make messes, so I look for wipeable surfaces or removable fabric parts that can be washed. This makes it easier for me to keep the toy hygienic.
I Check for Stability and Durability
I want toys that stay in place while my baby kicks and plays. A stable base or secure mat helps prevent frustration and keeps playtime safer. Durability also matters because I want the toy to last through daily use.
Extra Features I Like
Sometimes I choose toys with added features like music, lights, mirrors, or detachable toys. These extras can keep my baby interested longer and make playtime more interactive. Still, I make sure the features are not overwhelming or too loud for my infant.
My Final Tip Before Buying
Before I make a purchase, I read reviews from other parents and compare a few options. I look for a kicking toy that is safe, easy to clean, age-appropriate, and fun enough to keep my baby engaged. For me, the best toy is one that supports both comfort and development.
Final Thoughts
I believe kicking toys for infants can be a simple but valuable way to support early development through movement, exploration, and sensory play. My takeaway is that the best options are safe, age-appropriate, and engaging enough to encourage your baby to stretch, kick, and discover. I also think these toys can make playtime more enjoyable while helping build important motor skills along the way.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Mara Ellery. I live in St. Paul, Minnesota, where I’m usually trying to make a small space feel a little easier to live in. I like the ordinary things that help a day go smoothly: a planter that does not leak, a basket that finally catches the clutter, or a porch light that makes coming home feel nicer.
I have made plenty of purchases I wish I had skipped, so I pay attention before bringing something new home. Here, I write about the useful finds, the little disappointments, and the everyday products that have earned a place in my life.
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