6-7 months

Time for solid foods!  Also time for a high chair.  There are endless options, but I picked this Abiie high chair.  It is sturdy, and it looks like a piece of furniture.

Teething toys are a must, if you do not already have them.  I absolutely recommend the Banana Brush if you do not already have it, and anything that provides relief during teething.  I also liked this elephant teether, especially for travel.

Activity Center- Excellent for self play and containment, containment being key.  Being able to provide your baby a safe place to play and entertain him or herself is huge.  I got this Baby Einstein walker, but some pediatricians recommend that you do not use anything with wheels, so in that case, this Fisher Price activity center should do the trick.

Baby Einstein ipod– This thing is great!  I have watched several babies enjoy holding this, having music played to them, or even using it as a teething toy.  At age one, it is still a hit.

Sensory Balls– Excellent toys for self play.  A lot of options, but I ended up getting the Edushape Sensory Balls four pack.  At age one, still a favorite toy.

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8-12 months

Your baby is on the move!  Or will be shortly.  Not as much new “gear” is required during this time period, whew!  Mainly sippy cups for the transition out of bottles, sensory toys, and a new car seat as your baby grows.

Somewhere in this timeframe, your baby will outgrow the first car seat.  We got the Britax Boulevard, which is both rear facing and forward facing, so it will accommodate your baby/ toddler/ child for the next few years.

I was late to do this, but it is a good idea to introduce sippy cups and straws to transition your baby away from the bottle.  I started this at 10 months, because I waited for my pediatrician to mention it before starting.  The Munchkin weighted straw is perfect!  Whoever is the genius that came up with this idea deserves a pat on the back, and thank you from mothers everywhere.  Highly recommend.  Also the Nuk sippy cup with base handles seems to be a fan favorite for most babies around this age.

Once your baby is able to pull up and has some coordination, a Walker is a great toy to introduce and gives your baby confidence and practice for when they are ready to walk.  Blocks seem to be a big hit at this age, as well.  We were gifted this Manhattan Toy Tree Top Adventure Center, and any toy like this is sure to provide entertainment.

Your baby is now one!  Well done parents!!!!