Seeking Act. for Busy 8 Month Old

I am a mom of 4 so here is what I have done when they are at that curious stage. Toys that play music and light up are great. I alos suggest you try and find a playpen. I know they have the pac n plays now but they are too small to play in. I found a great one that is not made anymore at a childrens consignment store for about 20.00. best thing i ever bought. i attached all kinds of different toys around the edges that she could grab, pull, etc. I laid a blanket on the inside so it would be soft to crawl around in and put pop up toys, manipulatives, a teether, a stuffed animal etc in there. she was very happy and i know she was safe. If you have a park nearby take her on the swings. They love that too. I would also get her an activity table with lights and sounds on it. I think fisher price and leapfrog make one. they learn to stand that way or they have some where they can sit and do activities. Hope that helps a bit.

If her pincher reflex is good, you could give her a wet paint brush and find a water color book. Most of the water color is non toxic, so if she starts sucking on it, it'll just turn her mouth colors.

I work in the local public library with Toddlers and Babies. Many libraries offer storytime at least once per week, where you can sing songs, do fingerplays with your baby, and learn stories. It's really a good way to acclimate your child to socialization with other kids and Moms, as well as preparation for early literacy.

Rearrange ur cupboards...everything downlow w/in her reach that's dangerous, should be put up high. Childproof the outlets, there's things for this at target/home depot...put whatever u will allow her to play w/in the cupboards she can reach & don't worry too much, she'll learn what hurts & make her own decision on whether or not to do it again.
Hope this helps!