I bought this gym for my middle daughter when she was a baby. Although in some ways I find it less than tasteful in appearance, she enjoyed it quite a lot. I loaned it to my nephew and have never gotten around to getting it back even though he has long since outgrown it. We have been using a different play mat, but I worry that the toys are too high for my little one to really enjoy it. She’s starting to get to an age where she is interested in things, and I want her kicking and grabbing to be rewarded.

I started thinking about the Baby Einstein Baby Neptune Ocean Adventure Gym, and the things I liked about it. Interestingly enough, the water mat, which was what initially drew me to the toy, was not a big hit. By the time my daughter was old enough to be interested in that aspect of the toy, she had really outgrown infant gyms. Features I did like were the bright, attention-grabbing toys, the tummy time prop, and the low arch which keeps toys in reach. If you can stand having this brightly colored toy in your living room, your baby will likely enjoy having it. You can purchase it for $69.99 at ToysRUs.com.

I really appreciate when a product has versatile features, like this Baby Gym and Walker by Hess. If your infant is at the pre-walking stage, use this as a gym while baby is sitting or lying down. Once they’re reaching up and holding onto whatever steady piece of furniture they can find to lift themselves up, they can use the Baby Gym as a Walker. You’ll really be getting your money’s worth from this product.

Visit KangarooBoo.com to purchase this item, priced at $129.99. It’s made of sustainable beech wood and handcrafted with non-toxic, saliva-resistant paint and glue.

Kids love to crawl around in these type of mazes - remember Discovery Zone? How about all those play areas at the local McDonalds? You practically have to crawl in yourself to get your kids out (that was my excuse, anyway).  I’ve purchased an item similar to this Active Edge Mega Maze by Small World Toys before but it was just tunnels. Having these tunnels attached to a tent and a dome would triple the fun. They’re lightweight, easy to fold and put away and perfect for indoor or outdoor play. Looks like everything is detachable, so if you’re limited for space, you don’t have to set up the entire play area.

The set is constructed from flame-retardant materials for added safety and includes a TeePee, Dome tent, 2 travel tunnels and 4 storage bags. Both the TeePee and the Dome tent feature a waterproof groundsheet, mesh windows, hook and loop closures and awning windows that roll up and tie.

This is recommended for ages 3 and above, and can be purchased for $79.95 at FarmGoodsforKids.com.

As you can see from the above picture, this Little Tikes 5-in-1 Adjustable Gym will be suitable for your child throughout her first years: a traditional play gym for an infant; a sit down activity center featuring plenty of electronic lights and sounds for an older baby; a stand-up activity center with a built-in support bar for when your child is learning to stand; a play table for all kinds of creative projects for toddlers; and converts into a sturdy easel for young artists.

Versatility in a child’s product is always a plus for busy households. A child’s attention span can be quite short at times. Even with the older child, you have the option of converting the gym set into several different activities - giving you a little extra time to finish preparing dinner or that report you brought home from the office.

The Little Tikes 5-in-1 Adjustable Gym requires 3 “AA” batteries (included) and measures 21.25″ x 21.25″ x 15.5″. Some assembly is required, and colors may vary. Purchase yours for $34.93 at WalMart.com.

Here is an upscale alternative to the more commonly-available baby play gyms. I love the understated look of this toy. It is made of soft plush to cushion your baby as she explores. The raised and padded edges keep your baby from rolling off of the mat.

The toy arch holds five removable toys that hang down to entice the baby, while the mat itself will stimulate your baby’s sense of sound and touch. A blue version is also available. Either would make a wonderful baby shower gift. You can purchase one for $115 at thekiddiecloset.com.