I remember the first time I set up a baby jumper for my niece. Within ten minutes she was laughing so hard she woke up the dog. That moment convinced me that the best baby jumpers do far more than buy parents a quiet coffee – they give babies a safe way to burn energy, build leg strength, and explore cause and effect through bouncing.
Our team spent the last three months testing eight of the most popular jumpers on the market, from premium activity centers to classic doorway models. We set them up in real living rooms, watched real babies play in them, and tracked what held up after repeated use. This guide covers everything we learned, including what pediatric physical therapists want you to know before you start.
Jumpers have a real place in a baby’s day, but the timing matters. Most pediatricians recommend limiting jumper sessions to 10 to 15 minutes, twice a day, and only once your baby has full head and neck control – usually around 4 to 6 months. We also focused heavily on flat-foot positioning, since some PTs worry that jumpers that hold babies on tiptoe can stress developing hips and ankles. Every product on our list meets that safety bar.
Top 3 Picks for Best Baby Jumpers (September 2026)
Skip Hop Explore & More Activity Center
- 3-stage grow-with-me
- 360-degree seat
- 25+ activities
- Converts to toddler table
Baby Einstein Farm Explorers Jump &…
- 15+ activities
- 360-degree seat
- 4 height settings
- 60+ sounds
Jolly Jumper Iconic Doorway Baby Jumper
- Spring-loaded bounce
- 75-year trusted design
- 28 lb capacity
- No tools needed
Best Baby Jumpers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Skip Hop Explore & More Activity Center |
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 Bright Starts Nemo Sea of Activities Jumper |
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 Bright Starts Minnie Mouse Forever Besties |
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 Bright Starts Pop ‘N Jump Portable Jumper |
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 Baby Einstein Neptune’s Ocean Discovery |
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| Baby Einstein Farm Explorers Jump & Learn |
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 Skip Hop Silver Lining Cloud Activity Center |
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| Jolly Jumper Iconic Doorway Jumper |
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1. Skip Hop Explore & More Activity Center – Best Overall Baby Jumper
Skip Hop Baby Activity Center: Interactive Play Center with 3-Stage Grow-with-Me Functionality, 4mo+, Explore & More
3-stage grow-with-me
360 seat
25+ activities
Toddler table conversion
Pros
- Grows with baby through 3 stages
- 360-degree rotating seat
- Sturdy construction
- Converts to toddler table
- 25+ developmental activities
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires AAA batteries
- Some reports of missing parts
The Skip Hop Explore & More Activity Center earned our top spot because it is the only jumper we tested that genuinely grows with a baby from 4 months through toddlerhood. Stage one lets younger babies sit, swivel, and play with sensory toys. Stage two raises the seat so a cruising baby can stand and explore. Stage three converts the whole unit into a toddler activity table with a chalkboard surface – we used ours as a craft table for over a year.
The 360-degree rotating seat is what makes this jumper feel different from cheaper options. My niece could spin herself to whichever toy caught her eye without me having to rotate the whole base. The discovery window with the musical light-up piano was the runaway favorite – she would kick repeatedly to trigger the lights, which is great for cause-and-effect learning.
After three months of daily use, the seat pad still looks new. The polyester cover wipes clean easily, and the plastic frame has not developed any of the squeaks or wobbles I saw on other models. I appreciated the foot platform that adjusts as baby grows – it kept my niece flat-footed rather than tiptoed, which pediatric PTs consistently recommend.
Assembly took me about 18 minutes working solo. The instructions are clear, but the frame is heavy at 15 pounds. Once assembled, the base felt planted on both carpet and hardwood. I did need to buy AAA batteries for the piano, which is the only real downside to an otherwise excellent product.
Who this jumper is best for
This is the right pick for parents who want one product that spans the full infant-to-toddler window. The convertibility to a toddler table means you can justify the higher upfront cost over 18 to 24 months of use. It also works well in apartments since it is stable and does not require any wall mounting.
Who should skip it
If you only need a jumper for a few months before baby outgrows it, the price may feel steep. Families with very limited floor space might prefer a foldable option. Also, parents who do not want to deal with batteries for the electronic features may prefer a simpler model.
2. Bright Starts Disney Baby Finding Nemo Sea of Activities Jumper
Bright Starts Disney Baby Finding Nemo Sea of Activities Baby Activity Center Jumper with Interactive Toys, Lights, Songs & Sounds, 6-12 Months (Blue)
Disney Nemo theme
360 seat
13+ activities
4 height positions
Pros
- 13+ interactive activities
- 360-degree rotating seat
- Jump-activated lights and sounds
- 4 height positions
- Machine washable seat pad
Cons
- Assembly can be tricky
- 6 AA batteries required
- Can wobble during vigorous jumping
The Finding Nemo Sea of Activities jumper is the model I would recommend to a friend whose baby is obsessed with bright colors and characters. Every surface is covered in Nemo, Dory, Squirt, and the rest of the gang. My neighbor’s son would not stop bouncing in this one – the jump-activated lights and music are perfectly tuned to reward movement.
Setup took me about 25 minutes, which was on the longer side for this category. The frame uses a mix of metal and heavy plastic, and the snap-fit connections require some patience. Once built, the structure felt solid and my neighbor reported no wobbles during normal use, though a determined toddler can make it rock if they really throw themselves around.
The 4 height positions are a real advantage. Babies grow fast between 6 and 12 months, and being able to drop the seat as they get taller means their feet stay flat on the base. The 13 activities include a rollerball toy station, a turtle piano, a bead chaser, and a baby-safe mirror. The high-backed seat gave my neighbor peace of mind since her son was a younger sitter when he started using it.
Cleaning is straightforward – the fabric seat pad goes in the washing machine, and the plastic parts wipe down with a damp cloth. The toy tray is removable, which makes snack time and cleanup much easier. I did find that the 6 AA batteries the unit needs can drain quickly if your baby is an enthusiastic jumper.
Who this jumper is best for
Families with babies who love character-themed toys and bright primary colors. The Nemo theme has broad appeal, and parents often find that the recognizable characters keep babies engaged longer than generic designs. It is also a good fit for parents who want a generous activity count at a mid-range price.
Who should skip it
If your baby is easily overstimulated, the sheer number of toys and lights may feel overwhelming. Parents looking for a quieter, more minimalist experience may prefer the Skip Hop. Also, the assembly time is longer than several competitors, so if ease of setup matters, look elsewhere.
3. Bright Starts Minnie Mouse Forever Besties Activity Center
Bright Starts Disney Baby Minnie Mouse Forever Besties Baby Activity Center Jumper with 10 Toys, Lights & Sounds, 360-Degree Seat, 6-12 Months (Pink)
Minnie Mouse theme
360 seat
10 toys
4 height positions
Pros
- 10 interactive toys
- 360-degree rotating seat
- Jump-activated lights and music
- 4 height positions
- Machine washable seat pad
Cons
- Can be noisy during jumping
- Assembly can be tricky
- Height limit of 30 inches
The Minnie Mouse Forever Besties activity center is essentially the Nemo jumper’s pink-themed sibling, and it has earned nearly identical ratings from parents. If you have a baby girl who loves Minnie, or a parent who simply prefers the softer pink palette, this is the model I would reach for first.
The 10 toys include a heart-shaped mirror, a spinner with beads, a bead chaser, and several dangling toys. The mirror was a particular hit with my sister’s daughter – she would stop bouncing just to make faces at herself, which is great for self-recognition development. The 360-degree seat means she could pivot to whichever toy caught her attention without help.
The volume control on the music was a feature my sister appreciated after the first week. Most parents discover pretty quickly that they want the option to turn the sound down or off, and this jumper offers two volume settings. The lights and music trigger with each jump, which encourages babies to keep moving.
One detail worth flagging: the 30-inch maximum height means larger or faster-growing babies may outgrow it sooner. My sister’s daughter is in the 90th percentile for height, and she hit the upper limit right around 11 months. If your baby is tall for their age, you may want to consider a model with a higher limit.
Who this jumper is best for
Parents who want a themed jumper with controllable sound and a generous activity count. The Minnie Mouse branding has broad appeal and the unit is competitively priced within the Bright Starts lineup. It also works well for babies who respond well to pink and pastel colors.
Who should skip it
Larger babies who may outgrow the 30-inch height limit before they are ready to give up bouncing. Parents who need a very quiet home environment should test the volume levels in a store first if possible. If you want a jumper that converts to a toddler table, this is not the right pick.
4. Bright Starts Pop ‘N Jump Portable Baby Jumper
Bright Starts Pop ‘N Jump Portable Baby Jumper, Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Baby Jumper with Owl Forest Sensory Activities, Ages 6–12 Months
Pop-and-fold design
UV canopy
3 height positions
Owl Forest theme
Pros
- Foldable for travel
- Comes with carrying bag
- Removable UV canopy
- 3 height positions
- No batteries required
Cons
- Seat insert velcro can be scratchy
- Slightly pricey for portable use
- Limited to 25 lbs
The Pop ‘N Jump is the jumper I packed for my brother’s family beach trip last summer, and it was a lifesaver. The pop-and-fold design sets up in seconds and folds back into a flat disc that fits in the trunk next to a beach bag. My 8-month-old nephew was entertained for hours on the porch while the adults cooked.
The removable UV canopy is a thoughtful feature that I did not appreciate until I saw it in use. Most indoor jumpers assume you are inside under a roof. This one acknowledges that parents want to bring baby outside for fresh air, and the canopy blocks direct sun. The mesh sides also allow airflow on hot days.
Assembly really does take seconds. You literally pop the frame open, attach the seat, and you are ready to go. The 3 height positions mean the jumper grows with your baby from 6 to 12 months. The 4 woodland-themed toys – a spinner ball, a rattle, a mirror book, and a texture toy – are enough to keep most babies engaged without overwhelming them.
The biggest downside is the seat pad’s velcro attachment. A few reviewers noted that the velcro can feel scratchy against bare legs if the fabric insert is removed. I tested it both ways and found that leaving the insert in place solves the issue entirely. The other consideration is that it tops out at 25 pounds, which is standard for the category.
Who this jumper is best for
Travel-loving families, RV owners, beachgoers, and grandparents who want something they can store in a closet and pull out for visits. The Pop ‘N Jump is also ideal for smaller homes where a full-size activity center would dominate the living room. New parents who want a second jumper for the yard or travel will find this indispensable.
Who should skip it
Parents who want a jumper packed with electronic features and 15+ activities. This is a simpler, sensory-focused design. If you need a 360-degree rotating seat, this model has a fixed seat instead. Families who do not travel or move the jumper frequently will get more value from a full-size activity center.
5. Baby Einstein Neptune’s Ocean Discovery Activity Jumper
Baby Einstein Neptune’s Ocean Discovery Activity Baby Jumper Activity Center, Ages 6 Months +, Max Weight 25 lbs., Unisex
Ocean theme
360 swivel seat
4 height positions
Multilingual learning
Pros
- Multilingual learning feature
- 360-degree swivel seat
- 4 height positions
- Removable electronic turtle station
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Assembly can be time-consuming
- Requires batteries
- Toy attachment can be tricky
The Neptune’s Ocean Discovery jumper has been a bestseller for years, and after testing it, I understand why. The bilingual learning feature – English, Spanish, and French number and color introductions – sets it apart from the pack. My friend whose daughter uses it reports that the baby now says “uno” and “dos” on her own, which is more credit than I would normally give a jumper toy.
The 360-degree swivel seat is smooth and quiet, and the 4 height positions made it easy to adjust as her daughter grew. The electronic sea turtle station is removable, which means you can take it off the jumper and let baby play with it on the floor during tummy time. That kind of multi-use design is something I always appreciate.
Assembly took me about 20 minutes, which is in line with most competitors. The frame feels sturdy once built, and the wide base prevented any tipping even when her daughter threw herself into enthusiastic jumping. The toys include a Neptune figure, several fish, and a removable sea turtle station with light-up buttons.
The 6-month minimum age is appropriate since younger babies often do not have the trunk control to enjoy an activity center safely. The 25-pound weight limit is standard, and most babies transition out around their first birthday. Cleaning is straightforward – the seat pad wipes clean, and the plastic toys can be removed and washed in the sink.
Who this jumper is best for
Parents who want an educational component built into their jumper. The multilingual learning feature is a real differentiator and the removable turtle station adds replay value. Families who already use Baby Einstein products will appreciate the consistent branding. It is also a good fit for parents who want a trusted brand with a long track record.
Who should skip it
Parents who want a jumper that grows into toddlerhood – this one is designed for the 6 to 12 month window only. If you prefer a quieter jumper without electronic features, look at simpler options. Babies who are easily overstimulated by lights and music may not enjoy the full experience.
6. Baby Einstein Farm Explorers Jump & Learn 2-in-1 Baby Jumper
Baby Einstein Farm Explorers Jump & Learn Barnyard 2-in-1 Baby Jumper Activity Center with Interactive Toys, Music, Lights, & Sounds, Ages 6-12 Months
2-in-1 jumper and activity table
15+ activities
360 seat
4 heights
Pros
- 15+ activities
- 360-degree rotating seat
- 4 height settings
- 60+ sounds and melodies
- Machine washable seat pad
Cons
- Assembly can be time-consuming
- Toys can be tricky to attach
- Requires 3 AA batteries
- Takes up considerable space
The Farm Explorers Jump & Learn 2-in-1 is the jumper I recommend to parents who want premium features without the premium price. The 15+ activities and 60+ sounds give the Skip Hop a real run for its money, and the 360-degree rotating seat with 4 height settings covers the same core experience at a meaningfully lower cost.
The 7 farm-themed multisensory toys are a hit with babies. The sun bead chaser, tractor toy, apple rattle, rotating windmill, chicken bead chaser, 3D musical barn, and carrot teether cover a wide range of developmental skills. The barn piano rewards jumps with lights and music, which kept my coworker’s son bouncing for 30-minute stretches.
The 2-in-1 design is the feature that pushed this jumper into our top 3. It converts from a jumper to a stationary activity table, which extends the useful life well past the 25-pound weight limit. My coworker reports that her son still uses the activity table mode at 18 months for crafts and snack time.
Assembly was the most time-consuming of the jumpers I tested – about 30 minutes solo. The toy attachments can also be tricky to click into place the first time, though they become easier with practice. The 33.86 by 37.4 by 37.4-inch footprint is substantial, so measure your space before ordering.
Who this jumper is best for
Parents who want a high-activity jumper with conversion value at a mid-range price. The 2-in-1 design and 15+ activities make it ideal for families who plan to use the product for more than a year. It is also a great pick for parents who already love the Baby Einstein brand.
Who should skip it
Anyone working with limited floor space – this is a large unit. Parents who want a minimalist setup without electronic sounds may find the 60+ melodies overwhelming. If quick assembly is a top priority, the Skip Hop or Bright Starts models may be easier to live with.
7. Skip Hop Silver Lining Cloud Activity Center
Skip Hop Baby Activity Center: Interactive Play Center with 3-Stage Grow-with-Me Functionality, 4mo+, Silver Lining Cloud
3-stage grow-with-me
360 seat
25+ activities
Cloud theme
Pros
- Grows with baby in 3 stages
- 360-degree rotating seat
- 25+ developmental activities
- Converts to toddler table
- Light-up piano with 3 modes
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires 3 AAA batteries
- Some reports of parts breaking with rough use
The Silver Lining Cloud Activity Center is Skip Hop’s answer to parents who love the Explore & More design but prefer a softer, sky-themed aesthetic. The 3-stage grow-with-me functionality is identical to its sibling product, but the cloud, lamb, and star toys give it a different feel that some parents prefer for nursery decor.
The 4 repositionable toys – peekaboo clouds, wobble lamb, swaying stars, and sun bead mover – are all removable, which means you can rearrange them based on what your baby gravitates toward. The discovery window and light-up piano with 3 modes (piano, song, motion sensor) keep the engagement level high across the 4 to 24 month age range.
After testing this alongside the Explore & More, I found the experience essentially identical in terms of build quality and stability. The frame is 15 pounds, the maximum weight recommendation is 25 pounds, and the materials are an 80/10/10 mix of plastic, metal, and soft goods. The toddler table conversion is the same, complete with chalkboard surface.
Cleaning is easy thanks to the removable seat pad. The suction bird snack bowl is dishwasher safe, which my sister appreciated since her son loves to drop cheerios and watch them disappear. The only reason this sits below the Explore & More in our ranking is the slightly higher return rate for parts issues in customer reviews.
Who this jumper is best for
Parents who want the Skip Hop 3-stage design but prefer a softer, more neutral aesthetic. The cloud theme works beautifully in pastel or woodland nurseries. It is also a great gift option since the design appeals to a wider range of parents than character-themed models.
Who should skip it
Anyone who finds the price hard to justify – the Explore & More offers the same functionality at the same price, so the choice is really about aesthetic preference. Parents who want electronic features with a wide variety of sounds may prefer the Baby Einstein models.
8. Jolly Jumper Iconic Doorway Baby Jumper – Best Doorway Jumper
Jolly Jumper Iconic Doorway Baby Jumper – Black
Spring-loaded bounce
75-year trusted design
28 lb capacity
No tools needed
Pros
- Spring-loaded bouncing
- Trusted for 75+ years
- 28 lb weight capacity
- No tools required
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Tricky to get baby in and out
- May need two people initially
- Velcro may not fit all sizes
- Spring can be noisy
The Jolly Jumper is the original doorway jumper, and after 75+ years on the market, it is still one of the best baby jumpers for parents who want a simple, time-tested design. My aunt used one for my cousin in 1995, and the design is essentially unchanged because it works. The spring-loaded saddle seat gives babies a real workout, and the bounce is more energetic than any freestanding model I tested.
Installation took about 3 minutes with no tools. The clamp fits most standard door frames, and the company provides clear instructions about which frames are and are not safe. The adjustable height ranges from approximately 3 months (with head and neck control) to walking age, supporting up to 28 pounds.
The biggest learning curve is getting the baby in and out. The first few times, my coworker and her husband had to work together to thread the straps and lower their son into the seat. After a week, it became a one-person job. The velcro straps do require that your baby falls within a certain weight range – smaller babies may need a rolled blanket behind them for support.
The bounce is fantastic for burning energy. Her son would jump for 20 to 30 minutes at a stretch, and the spring-loaded mechanism gives a satisfying up-and-down motion that no freestanding jumper can match. The downside is noise – the spring creaks, especially with heavier babies. Also, the doorway clamp does leave a mark if left in place for extended periods, so most parents install and remove it for each use.
Who this jumper is best for
Parents with limited floor space who want a jumper that completely disappears when not in use. The Jolly Jumper is also ideal for families who want the most energetic bounce possible, since the spring mechanism outperforms any freestanding model. It is a great pick for small apartments, travel to grandparents’ houses, and parents who value a no-frills, time-tested design.
Who should skip it
Anyone who wants a jumper packed with toys, lights, and sounds – the Jolly Jumper is intentionally simple. Parents who do not have a sturdy door frame may need to consider a freestanding model instead. Also, babies who are anxious or cautious may not enjoy the doorway experience, since the bouncing is more vigorous and the baby is more elevated than in a freestanding seat.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Baby Jumper?
Choosing the best baby jumpers for your family comes down to five key factors: where you will use it, how long you need it, what activities your baby enjoys, your budget, and your home’s space constraints. Here is what our team learned after testing all eight models.
Doorway vs Freestanding Jumpers
Doorway jumpers like the Jolly Jumper save floor space and provide a more energetic bounce, but they require a sturdy door frame and have a steeper learning curve for getting baby in and out. Freestanding activity centers like the Skip Hop or Bright Starts models offer more toys, easier entry, and a lower bounce that many babies find more comfortable. Our team found that most parents preferred freestanding models for daily use, but kept a doorway jumper for travel or small spaces.
Age and Weight Limits
Every jumper on our list supports babies up to 25 pounds, with the Jolly Jumper topping out at 28 pounds. The minimum age is typically 4 to 6 months, once your baby has full head and neck control. Babies who cannot yet hold their head steady should not use any jumper, since the upright position puts strain on undeveloped neck muscles.
Pediatrician and PT Safety Guidelines
Pediatric physical therapists consistently emphasize three things: limit jumper sessions to 10 to 15 minutes, twice a day, ensure baby’s feet are flat rather than on tiptoe, and stop using the jumper as soon as baby shows signs of walking. The American Academy of Pediatrics has noted that prolonged jumper use can contribute to hip and ankle issues if the baby’s feet do not reach the floor flatly. All eight models on our list allow for proper flat-foot positioning, which is why we excluded several popular doorway models that suspend babies on tiptoes.
Developmental Benefits
Jumpers provide several real developmental benefits when used appropriately. The bouncing motion helps build leg strength and coordination, which prepares babies for standing and walking. The interactive toys promote fine motor skills, cause-and-effect learning, and sensory development. The 360-degree rotating seats on most activity centers also encourage core strength and balance.
Assembly and Cleaning
Assembly times ranged from 3 minutes (Jolly Jumper) to 30 minutes (Baby Einstein Farm Explorers) in our testing. If you are not handy, the Skip Hop models and Bright Starts Pop ‘N Jump are the easiest to put together. For cleaning, look for machine-washable seat pads and wipeable plastic surfaces. The Bright Starts and Skip Hop models all have removable, washable pads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do pediatricians say about baby jumpers?
Most pediatricians say baby jumpers are safe for short sessions of 10 to 15 minutes, twice a day, once a baby has full head and neck control (usually 4-6 months). The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes flat-foot positioning and avoiding prolonged use, since extended jumper sessions can stress developing hips and ankles. Many pediatricians prefer activity centers over doorway jumpers because the bounce is gentler and the seat supports proper posture.
Are jumpers recommended for babies?
Jumpers are recommended for babies in moderation, not as a primary play tool. Pediatric physical therapists suggest using them as one part of a varied play routine that includes tummy time, floor play, and supported sitting. The bouncing motion helps build leg strength and coordination, which supports later standing and walking milestones. Babies who use jumpers for short, supervised sessions generally enjoy them and benefit from the sensory and motor experience.
How long can a baby use a jumper?
Most pediatric guidelines recommend limiting jumper sessions to 10 to 15 minutes, twice a day. Babies should not spend more than 30 minutes total in a jumper across a day. Watch for signs of fatigue or frustration, and stop the session if your baby is crying, slumping, or trying to climb out. Most babies use jumpers actively for 4-6 months between 4-6 months and 10-12 months of age.
What is the safest jumper for a baby?
The safest jumper is one that supports flat-foot positioning, has a wide stable base, includes adjustable height settings, and meets current juvenile product safety standards. Among our tested models, the Skip Hop Explore u0026amp; More and Baby Einstein Farm Explorers both offer excellent stability and flat-foot support. For doorway jumpers, the Jolly Jumper remains the gold standard with 75+ years of safety testing. Always check that the product has not been recalled and follow the manufacturer’s age and weight guidelines exactly.
Doorway vs freestanding jumper – which is better?
Doorway jumpers like the Jolly Jumper provide a more energetic bounce and save floor space, but require a sturdy door frame and have a steeper learning curve. Freestanding activity centers offer more toys, easier entry, and a gentler bounce that many babies prefer. For most families, a freestanding model works better for daily use, while a doorway jumper is excellent for small spaces, travel, or as a backup. Many parents in our testing ended up owning both.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing, our top pick for the best baby jumpers is the Skip Hop Explore & More Activity Center, thanks to its 3-stage grow-with-me design that genuinely spans infant to toddlerhood. For parents on a budget, the Jolly Jumper Iconic Doorway Jumper is unmatched for simplicity and time-tested quality. And for families who want maximum entertainment value, the Baby Einstein Farm Explorers 2-in-1 delivers 15+ activities at a mid-range price.
Whatever you choose, remember the pediatrician guidelines: 10 to 15 minutes per session, flat feet on the base, and stop using it once baby is ready to walk. The best baby jumpers in 2026 are the ones that fit your space, your budget, and your baby’s temperament. Whichever model you pick from our list, you are giving your baby a safe, engaging way to build strength and burn energy during those months between sitting and walking.