Safari seven-piece bowling set
It's a strike! Bowling sets are always a hit, but these velour jungle animals are especially bright, soft, and enticing. Plush ball included. ($30, fao.com)
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Rolliko
This funny fellow will fascinate -- and inspire crawling. As he rolls across the floor, rings on his legs rattle. ($25; manhattantoy.com)
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Ollie the Octopus activity plush
Covered with crinkly, shiny, rattly distractions, this sweet sea critter just may get your tot to sit still. ($34; babystyle.com)
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Chicco Adventure Backpack
Calling all future explorers: Though it has a walkie-talkie, flashlight, magnifying glass, compass, and more, this musical toy is still easily portable. ($25; etoys.com)
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Baby's Playplace
Once an infant starts rolling, his mom starts playing "put the baby back on the playmat." With this huge make-believe garden, you just fold up the walls so he stays put and the smiles don't stop. ($80; brightstarts.com
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Magical Shoe Fairy Cottage
She's not ready for a real dollhouse, but this toddler substitute is just as delightful. The doorbell rings, and she can hear fairies chattering when she opens the door. ($35; step2.com )
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Attack of the 50-ft. Baby! Stacking Blocks
You can't go wrong with stacking blocks (and these are good, sturdy ones) -- and what funny videos you'll get when he makes a skyscraper! ($28; wrybaby.com)
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Made-for-Me Day-to-Dream Soother
This nifty toy puts on different music and light shows for bedtime and playtime. ($35; playskool.com)
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Baby Magician
This is the first magic set we've seen for babies. Yours is sure to cast a spell. ($25; infantino.com
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Applepie Toys Gracie the Goose Ride-On
What a thrill under the tree! The duckling in back wiggles as your child rolls along. It's all wood, and the rubber wheels won't scuff the floor. ($80; amazon.com)
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Laugh & Learn Learning Kitchen
This silly, friendly hangout is loaded with little surprises. On the other side, it's a family room! ($65; fisher-price.com)
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Magnetic Animals
We just can't get over how clever and captivating this cute trio is. Mix and match the heads and tails of the elephant, hippo, and ox for guaranteed giggles. ($46 for the set; dwellshop.com)
