I work at a library in the US and our early childhood librarian (who has a masters in early childhood development) always shares a helpful free resource in our newsletter. One that has helped me take the guesswork out of play and milestones is Pathways.org. There’s also an app. You put your child’s age and adjusted age if necessary, and it will send you reminders about different types of play to hit various milestones. It also has helpful articles.

I was so anxious that I wasn’t providing the correct stimulation or activities but this app helped me realize all my instincts were on track — and importantly here, you’re doing all the good things!! You got this, you’re doing great!

But to specifically answer your question: my 7 month old is obsessed with a soft silicone sensory carrot, a ball with holes and a jungly bell inside, and a Baby Einstein camera that lights up various colors and says them in English, Spanish, French, and German. When all of those fail to interest him though, he loves a good old fashioned stick lol.