In order for a child to develop correctly from the very first days of life, his parents must help him with this. There are a huge number of auxiliary toys and tools for this. One of the most popular among them is the developmental mat. This interesting and useful game can captivate a child of almost any age for a long time.
She also has extensive experience working in home health with aged or medically fragile children. With baby sleeping on their back, it's easy to forget that tummy time is just as important. Although it's hard to understand at first, all those little whispers and semi-tries make a big contribution to baby's development, preventing flat spots from forming on the back of her head and preparing her for milestones and scans.
When we talk about belly time, what do we mean? Tummy time is the amount of time a baby spends on their tummy when they are awake and supervised. Placing your baby on his tummy encourages him to lift his head, which helps strengthen the muscles of the head, neck and shoulders and improve motor skills.
From what month can a developmental play mat be used?
Experts recommend that parents use a play mat for their child’s development from birth. It is best to purchase it in the very first days of the baby’s life. He will need it for at least the next year. Every month more new functions of such a toy will be used. It is not surprising that on the box of such rugs it is indicated that it is intended for babies from 0 months. But there is no upper limit.
Why do babies need tummy time?
We know that it is not easy to get a child to engage in an activity that she is less than excited about.
But trust us, tummy time is worth it. Besides offering a sweet way for both of you, there are some major benefits to belly time. Practice for other important steps such as, and. Improves overall motor skills Recruits less used muscle groups Prevents Helps baby with head control Eliminates gas pain Provides baby with a different environment. While there is no recipe for starting tummy time, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents start early. In fact, babies born full term without any health problems can start tummy time as soon as their first day home from the hospital, as long as you and your newborn are awake and alert, and you or another caregiver are there to supervise .
From 0 to 3 months
It is during this busy period that it is very important for a child to feel that he is safe. It is the developmental mat that will help him with this. Therefore, when purchasing the toy under discussion, it is better to opt for models with lifting sides or comfortable cushions along the edges. If they are not there, then diapers and pillows will help replace these important parts.
How long is the tightening time?
D. The first time they can only be there for a minute before they start screaming.
It's about using them in this position. You may have to start with short sessions and work your way up. A little time with an animal can really go a long way. As baby gets older and begins to enjoy his “workout,” gradually increase the number and duration of tummy time sessions. Aim for 20-30 minutes a day of baby pet time by the time he is 3 or 4 months old. Then maintain the practice until the baby is able to roll over on his own, a feat that many babies accomplish by 6 or 7 months.
In order for the baby to learn to focus his vision, it is worth hanging small toys at a height of approximately 30 centimeters. If they are ringing, this will also help develop the child’s attention and hearing.
From 3 to 6 months
This time is great for training the first rollovers, as well as, in general, for coordinating the baby’s movements. Now the toys should be hung lower so that the baby tries to grab them. But for skillful attempts that will bring him so much joy, the child should definitely be praised. During this period, you can begin to study the mirror. It is included with most developmental mats.
Like most exercises, belly time is pretty simple. Set up a soft, safe space and put the baby down. On a blanket or time dial on a hard flat surface works well. The floor is the ideal location, although you can also place your baby face down on your stomach or chest, or across your lap.
If your baby doesn't respond to tummy time on his own, try it. Seeing your face may be enough incentive for your baby to try to lift his head out of your body, but McKenna warns that sometimes the plan backfires. Without a parent, sleep deprivation may be tempting after you go to bed. Or, if you manage to stay awake, your baby may have no incentive to move her head away from your warm body and may fall asleep.
6 to 9 months
If the set comes with musical buttons and toys, then you can start getting acquainted with them. The child will really like it if the mother also sings along to the toy. It is worth showing the baby how to use the buttons correctly and let him try to play with them on his own.
See how this happens and how the baby reacts to tummy time. You may have to play with positioning. If, say, baby really can't cope with being on her tummy, consider putting her on her side. Bring both of your baby's arms in front of you and both legs in front of you, with your knees bent for comfort. Be sure to roll it on the alternating side every 10-15 minutes.
In an ideal world, your baby will move up and move around on his own during tummy time, but most likely he will need some kind of stimulation to keep him calm. Pulling out one or two belly toys and placing them just out of reach so that baby has to stretch to grab them can do the trick. Try holding a brightly colored stuffed animal or shaking a rattle near your baby's face to distract him from the task. Or get your favorite toy - you! “Put your baby in there,” McKenna says. "Move your hands, feel something new, read to him or put out colorful blankets - something interesting for the child."
9 to 12 months
Enormous freedom of action opens up. You can sit on the mat, jump, perform various sports exercises, or remember your favorite toys. Now you can give your child complete freedom of action and allow him to be at least a little independent.
From year
Even at this age, a child will need a developmental mat. It can be easily turned into a cozy tent or toy house by covering the model with arcs with a thin sheet or blanket. You can also do exercises on it or just dance to fun music.
What if baby still hates tummy time? Don't stress and don't give up, advises Woods. "Like many things with children, it's okay to step back, rest and return to the animal," he says. Take a couple of days or a week and try again later. You will likely see success after you take a break. Also consider reducing your sessions and tummy time throughout the day to make the task a little more bearable for your baby.
The overall development of a child is calculated in small details and you need to know everything that comes into contact with your child. Babies love to be independent and enjoy playing around rather than being confined to a lap or crib. When you're busy, activity game matches help your child stay engaged and occupied. They ensure that the child receives early intellectual development by improving their listening skills with the help of a variety of detachable musical toys. There is a small mirror in the trunk that is safe for children to play with and removable for cleaning the mat.
Which educational mats are best to buy?
Don't know which educational mats are best to buy? Search the Internet for the answer to the question: which educational mats are the highest quality, most popular and inexpensive? Reviews on the site will help you buy the best educational mats in terms of price-quality ratio.
Yulia Zh.★★★★Pros: Washable Bright, beautiful, the child liked the toys Cons: One of the toys did not work right away High price Review: The rug was needed for about two or three months, when the child actively begins to be interested in the world around him, tugging at toys, and up to six months . When he starts crawling, the rug becomes useless.
It is too small to organize play there with a grown-up baby. The set includes four toys: a vibrating fish that winds up, a musical turtle toy, a rodent and a mirror. The mirror doesn't really reflect anything, like all mirrors in similar toys. The turtle has a mechanism inside, i.e. it should make some sounds, but we got a defective one, and it only crackles slightly.
I could have cut the batteries and changed them, but I didn't want to ruin the toy. You can hang up your toys, and take these ones off and play separately from the rug. There are also several rustling elements that the child liked, and the perimeter of the rug is decorated with letters of the English alphabet. Of course, there is no sense in this, since when the baby begins to be interested in letters, he will no longer need this rug for a long time.
The mat is made of waterproof material; you can lay your baby out without a diaper. The base can be washed in a machine, dries quickly. In the end, it’s not a bad thing, the child got a little exercise, and the mother had time to eat or wash. But the rug quickly became useless; now the baby only sometimes plays with the rodent. Considering that the rug was only used for four months, the price is clearly too high. I recommend it, but adjusted for the price.
Buy at a good price
Tatyana R.★★★Pros: the rug is tiny Cons: the toys are rustic and the mirror doesn’t look like a mirror, it’s cloudy. It will be difficult for a child to see in it
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Lyudmila Z.
Bright, the quality of the mat is good, easy to wash, and the color does not change. There is a small pillow for lying on the stomach, a piano plays many different melodies and a 3 month old baby. Presses keys easily with feet. There is a large mirror.
Hanging toys are very simple (4 pieces of plastic rattles). I bought all the toys separately
Tatyana K.★★★★★Pros: Easy to use, availability of fun toys, soft and pleasant, inexpensive. Cons: Didn’t notice. Review: I bought this wonderful rug at a fabulous price. The child really likes it, he plays happily and develops at the same time, and I go about my business. Super. I recommend.
Anastasia Rodzevich
A chic rug, good quality, the threads do not stick out, the toys are all calm tones. I bought it with a 1050 discount
Olga *.★★★★★Pros: Availability of hard sides, large size, bright colors and toys Cons: None Review: This is the best rug, I recommend it to all my friends!! Excellent sides, you can leave your child safely in a playpen! Then you can open the sides - a huge play mat! The toys are wonderful, the monkey and the lion are my favorites, I also like the music panel, the music doesn’t get boring at all. The fabric is very pleasant and easy to wash, and after washing it does not lose its appearance or brightness at all!
Lily★★★★★Pros: Bright toys, musical fox Cons: Quite small size of the mat, thin Review: The quality of the mat is very good, the arcs are attached securely. To make the child comfortable, I put a blanket or blanket under the rug. The toys are bright and musical. If you get tired of them, you can hang up any of your own.
Naumov Alexander★★★★★I bought this rug for my child. The first thing I always pay attention to is the quality of the product. The toy is made with high quality, does not stink. The rug is very bright. The child loves this rug very much! It’s too early to talk about any developmental aspects - the child is small. I think that the price corresponds to the quality.
Fursova A.★Pros: Bright and cute Cons: The child began to pull on the toys, the arc began to pop out, the arc was attached with two threads, which after two weeks simply fell off and the arc began to fly out, scaring the child. Disgusting quality, threw it away. When looking for a new one, be sure to have two arches and normal fastenings.
Irina K.★★★★★Pros: Value for money Cons: The music tab broke in a few minutes Review: Overall an excellent rug, pleasant material, easy to wash. The only problem is that the music stopped playing almost immediately. Although for me personally this is not important
Natalya B.★★★★★Pros: sewn with high quality and from good materials (fabric, plastic, threads) Cons: not noticed Review: I recommend... it was very convenient to place the rug in the playpen. This way it is more comfortable for the child to get used to the playpen for the future
Ravshan B.★★★★★Pros: Bright toys and rug
From our rating it is clear that you can choose a developmental mat not only to suit the needs of the baby, but also to suit the budget of the parents. Manufacturers offer a variety of models and configuration options, but the high quality of materials and safety of use remain unchanged.
A good rug should have ample opportunities for development and attract the baby’s attention to developmental elements. The presence of sides is important if you plan to place the structure outdoors or in the country; when installing at home, this is not the most important parameter.
Options for placing the baby in the structure also matter: play elements should be visible and accessible from the supine, prone and sitting positions. It is good if the rug is supplemented with a support pillow.
A bright contrasting design that is suitable for girls or boys, special details and contrasting inserts on the playing field, the number of hanging toys in the set or the ability to attach other toys, the ability to move and detach elements, the presence of sound and light effects - all these parameters are best taken into account in advance, to choose the best option that will delight you and your baby.
If you have already chosen a developmental mat, then you should consider several important points. Under no circumstances place it on a table or bed, even if the baby has not yet learned to roll over - this can happen completely unexpectedly! And do not leave your child unattended.
Enjoy the shopping!
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What types of rugs are there for babies?
Currently, in stores you can find a huge number of different educational rugs for children. Next, let's talk about the most popular of them.
- Gaming standard.
This is the simplest toy. Often has a regular geometric shape or is made in the form of popular cartoon characters. Of all the additions, it usually only boasts pockets, buttons and laces. - Product with arcs.
This is an already improved model. Of course, it will be more difficult to fold it and take it with you, but you will be able to attach many different educational toys to the arcs. If they are not included, then choose from those that you already have at home. Often its surface is decorated with all kinds of fabric applications and designs. - Bilateral.
This rug is convenient because if you get tired of one side, you can simply turn it over to the other. It turns out to be two toys in one. It is best to choose models, each side of which is designed for a certain age. For example, the first is from 0 to 6 months, and the second is from 6 to 12. - With sides.
Such a toy can ensure the safety of the baby. It resembles a playpen. The sides will prevent the smallest family members from crawling into the wrong place. The child will lie and play where his mother leaves him. The main thing is not to place such a toy on a sofa or other high surfaces to prevent it from falling.
But there are other models - a rug-bag, a rug-puzzle. Parents can explore the assortment of stores and choose the most suitable product for themselves in all respects.
The rug is made of linen, which is pure cotton, and can be washed at home. It can be placed on any surface such as the floor, garden or bed. There is a hanger that can be easily installed or removed as per requirement. It's an all in one mat that can be used for baby boy to sleep on or for him to sit and play with stuffed animals hanging up. You can place up to 13 toys for your child to play with on the convenient hangers.
It develops the child's hand and foot coordination and also gives parents the opportunity to educate their child about trees, leaves and various animals or birds found in nature. The leaves are embossed on the mat itself to give a different look. You can teach your children many things like alphabets and numbers on a baby mat. There are several play mats that are printed with alphabets and numbers, so while your child is on the mat, you can introduce them to the basics. Keep your children working with these prints to help them develop intellectually.
The best inexpensive educational mats
This rating category presents budget models of educational mats.
Despite the reasonable price, all products are made of quality materials. The design of the models is suitable for various age categories. Rating: 4.7
The “Fun Island” educational mat is perfect for playing with a baby under 1 year of age. The bright marine-themed design and a variety of hanging toys will captivate even the most restless child for a long time. The model is made of soft velor, which is not blown, so the child will be warm and comfortable spending time on it. It is slightly thickened along the perimeter.
All parts are absolutely safe for the baby, and the pendants are easily removed and can be replaced. The product promotes the development of fine motor skills of the child, trains visual and auditory reactions thanks to the rustling and ringing elements of the product. The mat is easy to wash, fold and transport.
Advantages
- ease of care;
- high quality;
- safety.
Flaws
Rating: 4.6
An educational mat from the Zhiraffiki brand will definitely interest your baby with its bright pendants and designs. The child will enjoy looking at animals and birds against a background of flowers and grass. All toys are designed for the development of fine motor skills. The model has light and sound effects. There are 5 hanging toys on two arcs. The set includes a rattle, a mirror, a squeaker and a rustle, and a carrying bag.
The mirror develops spatial imagination, the book and animals help to understand the world around us. You can play on the mat while sitting, lying on your stomach or back. When the baby starts walking, you can remove the arches and use the product as a cozy play mat. The model is made of textile materials, and the arcs are made of plastic.
Advantages
- low price;
- bright design.
Flaws
Funkids Piano Gym
Rating: 4.6
The Funkids Musical Mat is used in four different ways. The smallest children can lie on their back or tummy, while touching toys hanging on the arc. While sitting, you can look at yourself in the mirror, play the piano, which you can remove and take with you for a walk. This toy is especially popular with young children because it includes 15 melodies.
This product is distinguished by its original design and the presence of plastic sides on one side. The soft parts of the rug can be machine washed; the plastic parts must be wiped with a damp cloth. All toys are absolutely safe for children. The structure is assembled and disassembled very easily.
Advantages
- durable and easily disassembled design;
- different melodies;
- no sharp parts.
Flaws
- thin synthetic material;
- lack of volume control.
Rating: 4.5
The MERX “Dodo and Kiki” rug from the MERX brand will be an excellent helper for mom. The product has two intersecting arcs on which toys are attached: a teether, an owl with a squeaker, a rattle, and a plastic ring with balls. They are all removable, so they can be rehanged and replaced with any other parts. On the mat itself there is a mirror and a second teether. A squeaker and a small rustling noise are hidden inside the material.
The surface of the product is soft and pleasant to the touch; polyester was used for padding. The size of the model allows the baby to crawl, sit, roll over and lie down.
Advantages
- bright design;
- safety;
- decent quality;
- strength.
Flaws
Manufacturers offer developmental mats in various price segments. Despite the different prices, they are all made from high-quality materials that are safe for babies. Let's look at the best inexpensive models of educational mats costing up to 2,000 rubles of various designs and configurations. All presented designs have passed Russian quality control and are recommended for use from an early age.
The fifth place in the rating is occupied by the developmental mat Giraffes Ushastiki (939353). The textile model with plastic elements is intended for babies from birth to the age of 12 months, and later the mat can be used as a soft floor for games by unfastening the arcs.
The rounded mat is equipped with two arcs and educational toys. Colorful contrasting images of animals attract children's attention, developing color perception, and game elements will help the little ones develop fine motor skills and coordination.
The set includes 6 toys of different textures to develop tactile sensations. On the surface of the mat there is a rustling sound, a squeaker and a safe mirror, which attract attention and stimulate play.
The size of the model is 85x70 centimeters, weight - 1 kilogram. You can place your baby on his back, on his tummy or in a sitting position once he has mastered it.
Pros:
- Removable game elements.
- 6 toys included.
- Developmental elements on the surface.
- Low cost.
Educational mat Giraffes Ushastiki 939353
The educational mat Umka Fun Numbers (I331-H25050-RU) is suitable for babies from birth, boys and girls. Bright illustrations of animals, insects and numbers, as well as hanging elements, stimulate the interest of young researchers.
For the safety of children, the model is equipped with a limiting edge that protrudes slightly above the main surface. On two removable arcs you can hang 5 toys, which are included in the package (4 soft toys of different textures and a mirror in the shape of a sun).
The Umka Fun Numbers rug promotes the development of fine motor skills, color perception, and coordination of movements.
The model has a square shape, size 83x83 centimeters, weight 1.2 kilograms. For ease of transportation, the mat is packed in a transparent bag with handles.
Pros:
- Low cost.
- 5 toys included.
- Removable game elements.
- Convenient packaging.
Educational mat Umka Fun numbers I331-H25050-RU
The Chicco educational mat Forest Friends XXL (7945000000) is in third place in the rating. The soft play mat has a rectangular shape and a fairly large size of 135x90 centimeters.
The model promotes the development of tactile sensations and is intended for babies from birth. The surface features colorful illustrations of forest animals, as well as numbers from 1 to 10. There are 5 rings for attaching educational toys, but the toys are not included in the package.
The educational mat Forest Friends XXL folds simply and compactly using special straps, so it is convenient to transport and store. The model is machine washable, which makes caring for the product easier.
Pros:
- Big size.
- Folds compactly.
- Can be washed in a washing machine.
- Low cost.
Minuses:
- No arcs.
- No toys included.
Educational mat Chicco Forest Friends XXL 7945000000
The developmental mat MERX Summertime (MXR0058) is intended for newborns and infants, boys and girls. The textile model with plastic elements is equipped with two arcs, educational toys and is complemented by sound effects.
The surface of the mat is designed to develop tactile sensations in babies. Elements with rustling and squeaking sounds, as well as sound, contribute to the development of hearing. 3D petals help develop fine motor skills. The bright design of the model is intended for the development of color perception in the baby. The special arrangement of the rug elements encourages children to move and play with them.
The arches are equipped with toys (teether, squeaker, rattle, mirror) that can be removed from the rings and used separately from the mat.
The model has a square shape with dimensions of 80x80 centimeters. Height with arcs is 40 centimeters, weight - 940 grams.
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Pros:
- Low cost.
- Good equipment.
- Removable toys.
- Developmental elements.
- Light weight.
- Sound effects.
Educational mat MERX Summer time MXR0058
The first position in the rating is occupied by the educational mat Myakishi Lawn with a fish (189). The model is intended for children aged from 1 month, the package includes two arcs, four hanging toys (one of them is a rattle). The textile mat is equipped with sound effects.
On its surface there is a rustling pond with inhabitants “living” in it - a fish and a frog, a duck with a squeaker inside, a house with a window that can be opened and closed, and also depictions of pets on the lawn.
The “arched effect” of the arches allows the child to feel safe and creates a visually safe space for him. A large number of drawings and volumetric elements attract attention; they are visible if the baby lies on his back or on his tummy. Bright details encourage little explorers to reach out to them to touch the different textured parts of the rug and play elements.
The mat promotes the development of fine motor skills, coordination of movements, sensory and sound perception, recognition of shapes and sizes.
The model has dimensions of 87x87 centimeters, height with arcs is 42 centimeters, weight - 1.67 kilograms. The developmental mat is made from modern hypoallergenic materials.
Pros:
- Optimal size.
- Good equipment.
- A large number of developmental elements.
- Helps in the development of babies.
- Lightweight hypoallergenic material.
- Low cost.
Educational mat Crumbs Lawn with fish 189
How to choose and which one is better - review of products from popular brands
It is worth choosing a rug for your baby with special care. There is no need to be embarrassed to ask the seller for a quality certificate, and also to carefully study the composition of the material - touch it and examine it. It is important that the toy is easy to wash, does not have too small parts that are easy to tear off and does not have a strong unpleasant odor.
The mats ensure that your child learns while having fun and doesn't disturb anyone or disrupt the situation. Innovative designs and high-quality built-in material give parents a worry-free product. They come with manuals to help you easily assemble them yourself. They come in a variety of prints and sizes and are made from pure cotton linen material complemented by a soft baby feel. All the play mats available here offer excellent opportunities for the all-round development of children.
Musical rug Tiny Love “Zoo”
A funny bright rug with soft sides and arcs. The set includes fabric rattles (3), a teether, a plastic teether rattle, a mirror and a music center that can operate in two modes. To develop fine motor skills, the mats have 3D fragments. For example, this is a mouse that can be pulled by the tail.
These come in various ranges and competitive prices. They understand the needs and requirements of the child and hence follow all the safety standards while manufacturing these play mats. The designs are designed to keep children occupied and help them learn while they play.
Do you place your baby on his stomach for a few minutes every day? You should - it makes him stronger and improves his coordination. First, the good news: Since the American Academy of Pediatrics began recommending that babies be "bed asleep" more than a decade ago, the incidence has dropped by more than 50 percent. Now the bad: Since this change, flat spots on the back of the skull have developed more, which is called positional plagiocephaly. What's more, a always-lying tummy can delay motor development because the baby is less likely to use the muscles in his upper body.
Fisher Price is an original rug, complete with a miniature sound piano. An excellent toy for little musicians. It also has a soft arc and 4 bright toys for hanging. If desired, they can be removed. The piano is also easy to detach. It is capable of playing both short and long melodies.
Turn your baby over when he wakes up and you will help him. “This position promotes trunk stability, limb coordination, and head control,” explains Henry Shapiro, MD, medical director of developmental and behavioral pediatrics at All Children's Hospital, Ste. Not everyone: Tummy time encourages your baby to practice reaching and turning, skills that are often precursors to crawling. However, some children hate doing pint-sized push-ups and will initially protest when they are "put face down."
The toy works in several modes for different ages: “lie down and play”, “play on your stomach”, and also “sit and play”.
A fun toy that has a multi-variant design with a wide range of possibilities. This is a 5 in 1 model. The set includes a lot of rattles, teethers, a light and sound toy that plays seven melodies, a mirror and even a square blanket. Its size is 106 by 114 centimeters.
While on the tummy the baby has to work hard against gravity to hold up his head - it's stressful, Doctor. Offer your baby tummy time around the 3 to 4 month mark. At this point she has better neck strength and control so she can lift her head and turn her head while lying down. First, place her on a blanket on the floor and give her several five to ten minute sessions each day. After about 4 months, your baby should be able to lift the chest off the floor and rest on her elbows with her head upright.
This bright, colorful and interesting developmental mat for any child comes with four toys. These are a squeaky giraffe, a vibration lizard, a windbell butterfly and a musical ball. In addition, it can be supplemented with other original toys at your discretion, purchasing them separately. This rug will be of interest to children of any age.
She might even be able to take her hands off the floor, arch her back, and kick. As your baby stretches and pushes onto the floor, she may accidentally lean to the side, fall and throw her belly onto her back. After 5-6 months, she will begin to turn on her tummy and use her arms to reach in front of her or to her sides.
Besides the physical benefits of tummy time, giving your baby play time on his tummy minimizes any flat spots on his head he may have gotten from his back. There are also psychological benefits: When your child learns how to do their body, they feel a sense of accomplishment. This gives him the confidence to try new skills as he grows and his coordination improves.
Soft puzzle "Russian Alphabet"
This educational puzzle for the smallest baby can simply be used as an insulated play mat. And with age, he will be able to use it for its intended purpose. Even school-age children are interested in the toy, so we can call it universal.
“Make part of the time for regular tummy time rather than fussing”, “Doctor Observes your baby's activities” - Never leave an infant unattended on her tummy. And, of course, continue to sleep on your back. Place your belly down on your chest or across your knees for a few minutes to get him used to the position. Just don't do it right after feeding, the pressure on his full belly may cause him to spit. Place your little one on a flat, clean surface, such as a blanket or play mat on the floor. she squirms or cries, try an extra supplement. Vote your head, lie down on the floor and walk around face to face with your child. Make silly noises and expressions, or sing songs. You may feel silly, but your baby will be less likely to fight being on his tummy. Give her a distraction. Hold a mirror in front of your child to get her attention. Or place brightly colored stuffed animals within her reach. There are also many belly toys that can keep your baby from getting bored. Lead others to action. Encourage your baby's friends, family and caregivers to get down on the floor for short periods of time with his tummy time too.
- Soothe comfort.
- Roll up a small blanket and pin it under your chest.
Tummy time is essential from day one to help your baby grow strong—even if your baby fusses and cries when you put him on his tummy.
The set contains 32 large puzzles according to the number of letters in the alphabet. Each size is 25 by 25 centimeters. At the same time, when folded, the puzzle takes up very little space. The letters themselves can be extracted from the squares of the toy or used together. In addition to a flat rug, it will be possible to build three-dimensional houses.
For twins - Tini Love “Tropical Island”
There are also models adapted for twins on sale. They are made in such a way that both children can play without disturbing each other. In addition, this model is perfect for twins.
Thanks to its large size, babies can easily fit on the surface of the mat. And the abundance of various toys allows everyone to get the desired accessory and not argue over them.
Educational toys are now very popular and parents of all children, regardless of the age of the kids, pay a lot of attention to development in a playful way. The variety of educational rugs does not go unnoticed by young mothers, because this is not just an interesting and colorful game.
The best developmental mats in the mid-price segment
Let's look at the best developmental mats in the mid-price segment. The presented models have an optimal price-quality ratio - they combine safe, modern, high-quality materials and good functionality. The structures are equipped with the necessary elements for the development of children, have sufficient equipment and meet accepted quality standards. The design and shape of educational mats in the mid-price segment are varied, so you can choose the option that suits your baby.
Bright Starts Africa (9167) is in third position in the ranking. The model is intended for children aged 0 to 12 months.
The high contrast of the playing area contributes to the development of color perception. To make the baby comfortable, there are bumpers along the edges of the mat and a support pillow in the shape of a giraffe, which helps strengthen the baby’s abdominal muscles. The package includes educational toys that can be hung on removable arches: rattles in the shape of a tiger cub, a bee and a zebra, teethers in the shape of leaves, and a large safety mirror.
The tiger cub pendant is equipped with sound and light effects; sounds and melodies are played for more than 20 minutes.
Bright Starts Africa measures 80x90 centimeters, height with arcs is 45 centimeters. Safe hypoallergenic and wear-resistant materials were used in the production of the rug; machine washable.
Pros:
- Sides on the playing field.
- A support pillow is provided.
- Sound and light effects.
- Hypoallergenic materials with high wear resistance.
- Machine washable.
Educational mat Bright Starts Africa 9167
The second place in the rating is occupied by the Fisher-Price Piano educational mat (BMH49), which grows with the child!
The bright colors of the rug are complemented by large piano keys and an arch that can be lowered. The set includes 4 hanging toys (a chewer, a rattle and tactile toys), the model is equipped with sound. As the child grows, the game elements are adjusted. While lying on his back, the baby reaches the keys with his feet and looks at the arch with toys.
The piano plays notes, short songs and melodies up to 15 minutes long. Flashing elements accompanied by sound will attract additional attention of the baby. For convenience, sounds can be turned off and the volume adjusted. The device runs on AA batteries (demo batteries are included in the kit).
The dimensions of the rug are 75x39 centimeters, the height with the arch is a centimeter. Model weight 2 kilograms. The product can be machine washed.
Pros:
- For long-term use.
- Customizable game elements.
- Three game positions.
- Removable elements.
- Machine washable.
Developmental mat Fisher-Price Piano BMH49
Educational mat Tiny Love Sunny Day (1201708678) is in the first position of the rating. The model is intended for babies from birth, boys and girls.
The package includes two removable arcs and 4 soft toys; the mat is equipped with a sound and vibration effect. On its surface there is a flower with a squeaker, which attracts the attention of kids. The toys stimulate the development of fine motor skills and tactile sensations; the manufacturer took care of different types of elements necessary for the development of the baby: teether, rattle, mirror, musical sun. Bright illustrations help develop color perception.
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The model has a traditional square design, dimensions 89x82 centimeters, height with arcs is 45 centimeters. Sound effects require 3 AA batteries to operate; demo batteries are included. For ease of transportation, the mat is packed in a plastic bag with a handle.
Pros:
- 4 educational toys included.
- Sound and vibration effects.
- Removable game elements.
- Convenient packaging.
Educational mat Tiny Love Sunny day 1201708678
From what age should it be used?
These rugs are made from child-safe materials, are comfortable and easy to use, and most importantly, useful and educational. From what month should a baby be introduced to a developmental mat?
The developmental mat can be presented in a variety of options. The choice of model depends primarily on the age of the baby
Their range is very large, and today you can find games not only for one-year-old babies who are actively exploring the world around them, but also for very young babies, starting from 0-3 months, under the strict supervision of their parents. You should select a rug for your baby according to age, and also pay special attention to safety and quality.
What is the difference between orthopedic and massage mats?
Many parents confuse these products, since both the first and second options perform one single function - the mats form the baby’s correct gait and have a positive effect on the musculoskeletal system. But, if you study these rugs more carefully, you can find the following differences between them:
- A mat with a massage effect is used regularly. It is necessary to accelerate the development of the baby’s support system, maintain muscle tone, and improve blood flow. If we take the orthopedic model, then it is needed to treat many diseases.
- The orthopedic product is divided into certain zones. There are areas on the rug that can imitate natural grass, stones, and uneven surfaces. The massage product has one single relief.
The main similarity between the rugs is their purpose. Thanks to such products, parents can raise a healthy, active baby.
What should you pay attention to?
What type of rug does your baby need? The baby's interests should be a priority - based on his tastes and preferences. Perhaps your baby already has favorite toys of a certain color or shape. Pay attention to size, configuration, quality and other features.
Buy a rug for children under one year old, taking into account the following features of the product:
- Select the game so that its size parameters meet age requirements. For infants, the best option is a product with small sides; this design is safer than other options. It is good if the sides are dense, but not hard. Strong sides will not wrinkle and will create a feeling of security and calm. And if the baby starts to get active, spin and roll over, they will not let him fall out.
- Older children are interested in more complex designs, consisting of parts of different shapes and materials. As a rule, such educational rugs for children are made of scraps of suede, satin, buttons, soft balls, cubes, and flowers. Models that are connected to an inflatable playpen deserve special attention. The convenience is that this option is also suitable for newborns, because... can be used separately from the inflatable play complex, and for older children, becoming one of the parts of the play pool.
- Important design features are special arcs on which toys are attached. Placing rattles, interactive and musical toys on such an arc is an additional developmental point. In the first months of life, a baby develops attention, observation and a grasping reflex, because he will strive to reach out and grab the toy he likes.
- The quality of the materials of the product is important. All parts must be made of materials that are safe for health. Pay attention to the naturalness of the fabrics, as this is a guarantee that the baby will not develop allergic reactions and will not experience various irritations on the skin.
Small soft sides indicate that the rug is intended more for a newborn than for an older child
What is a children's orthopedic mat, what is its benefit?
An orthopedic mat is a special massage product, for the manufacture of which artificial or natural materials are used that imitate natural cover, for example, grass, pebbles, sea sand, and so on.
The use of this auxiliary product from an early age makes it possible to form the correct foot, as a result of which you can avoid unnecessary stress on children’s legs, injuries during running, jumping and walking. As a rule, massage mats for children are made of bright materials and have interesting shapes, thanks to which the exercises become like an unusual, fun game.
The structure of the children's mat has various elements, thanks to which areas of the feet are reflexively stimulated while walking. The benefits of such a massage are quite great. Massage can improve health; it has a positive effect on internal organs. The feet are conventionally divided into certain segments. And, if you influence one or another segment, you can to some extent influence the functionality of a certain organ.
Rugs
Rugs may differ in structural qualities, appearance, and impact. They are not only useful, but can also bring a lot of pleasure to the child.
- Thanks to the mat, the necessary arch of the feet is formed. To prevent flat feet in your baby, it is better to start using mats from the first steps. The child’s musculoskeletal system is very flexible and elastic, therefore, it is easily adjusted. Eliminating foot deformities in schoolchildren is much more difficult.
- The texture of the mat gives the necessary load, plus it tones the skin of children's feet.
- The bright, colorful design of modern models will make the process a real exciting game. Accordingly, you will not need to force your little one to do exercises. He will jump on the mat on his own with great pleasure.
- The product stimulates brain functionality. On the areas of the feet there are nerve endings that are connected to the cerebral cortex. Due to their stimulation, the functionality of the brain itself can be improved, as a result of which the baby will develop much faster.
- The embossed surface of the product has a positive effect on the child’s immunity, strengthens joints, and also makes bones stronger.
- Using a mat speeds up the recovery of many colds. Thanks to the product, the amount of mucus decreases and swelling of the respiratory tract subsides. As a result, the child begins to breathe better.
An orthopedic mat will be a useful and interesting purchase for every child.
Relief
Exercising in the morning on such a surface eliminates several “hares” at the same time:
- The baby becomes cheerful after classes.
- Children's feet are better massaged.
Design features for children under one year old
The presence of removable additional elements is a feature of all smart mats for the early development of children of any age.
The duration of the game, the child’s passion and interest in the cognitive process depend on the number of details. Additional details vary significantly depending on the age for which the product is designed.
For babies in the first months of life, the following additional details are usually offered:
- Developmental rattles. As a rule, this is a cube or ball made of soft, pleasant-to-touch materials, inside of which ringing balls are placed. These toys are designed to develop hearing, attention, and fine motor skills. They are safe and will not hurt your child. In addition, they can be washed, which is very convenient, because... At this age, the baby tastes everything.
- Mirror. The presence of a mirror made of safe materials allows the baby to become familiar with his reflection from birth. For most children, looking at themselves is a fun and interesting activity.
- Teethers for teeth. As a rule, they are rubber or consist of rubberized parts. Teethers are very popular with children who are getting their first teeth. The process of chewing rubber toys greatly alleviates the discomfort caused by teething.
- Sound and light mobiles. An interactive toy always arouses genuine interest in the baby, regardless of his age, and musical carousels will help calm a nervous baby and even lull him to sleep.
The teether greatly facilitates the process of teething for the child, as it relieves itching and the unpleasant feeling of fullness.
How to attract your baby's attention to an orthopedic rug?
Today you can find a huge selection of different rugs on the market. They all differ in the material of manufacture, shape, and color palette. For little toddlers, manufacturers offer multi-colored, colorful products that have original designs, for example, resembling vegetables or ripe fruits.
In order not to bother the child with special exercises, the covering can be placed in the play area. The baby will be very happy to run around on the mat, sit, tumble, and at the same time his feet will be massaged. It is useful to walk on the mat in the morning or in the evening. This way, children's legs will relax, and the baby will cheer up. This procedure every day will allow your little one to quickly develop a good habit and make the exercises fun and interesting.
With baby on the mat
- A great idea is to put a blanket in the bathroom. After bathing, the baby will stand on this surface, sit on it, and the process itself will be beneficial for his health.
- Today, rugs in the form of puzzles have begun to gain enormous popularity. For a child, such a covering is just an unusual toy that can be disassembled at any time and used only during classes, thereby improving health.
If you put in a little effort and spend your personal time, you can make the product yourself, using only environmentally friendly materials.
Features of rugs for one-year-old babies
Playing mats are also very interesting for older toddlers. In order for a one-year-old baby to play excitingly, the components must correspond to his age development:
- soft rattles can be replaced with plastic ones, which will provide greater variety in shapes and colors;
- the presence of soft or semi-soft construction toys will allow the little researcher to intensively develop logical thinking and fine motor skills;
- the presence of toy models of electronic equipment (phone, laptop or tablet) introduces the baby to technologies that are so important in the modern world, and allows him to feel like dad and mom;
- soft books made of fabric or oilcloth material, the pages of which depict animals, fruits and vegetables, and the alphabet, introduce the baby to the world around him in a playful way.
Do-it-yourself orthopedic massage mat for children
Children of different ages and weights need different rugs.
If you decide to make such a product yourself, you must adhere to the following rules:
- Choose items that will not cause pain to your baby. Therefore, do not use items that may have sharp corners.
- Do you want a combined surface? Then provide places to relax. These should be areas that are simple, without any convex inserts.
- Choose the size of the rug yourself. Also consider the age of your baby. If you plan to create a rug for a child who is just learning to walk, then a small square will be enough for you. For older children, it is better to take a larger surface.
The most popular method of massaging the feet is walking on stones. Stones of various sizes and shapes press on the nerve endings of the legs, while massaging the skin of the joints. That's why many pediatricians advise parents to use rugs made from small pebbles. This surface has many useful properties:
- The stones relax and massage the skin.
- The materials are considered natural and environmentally friendly.
- The pebbles have a smooth, edged shape that does not harm the child’s feet at all.
- Stones are considered an accessible material.
First, you need to decide what will serve as the basis of your product. Remember that stones are a stubborn material that does not change shape and cannot take the shape of your feet. Choose a soft material for the base so that it wrinkles easily.
Stones are a great option
Next, proceed as follows:
- Sew the pillow using 2 thick fabrics.
- For the inside, use padding polyester or foam rubber folded in several layers.
- When you prepare the base, attach the pebbles to it. Remember that you are making the product for a baby, so choose a non-toxic glue that is strong enough, for example, PVA.
However, you can use other natural materials to create a rug, for example, nuts or walnut shells. The resulting product will be an excellent training device for the development of children's feet and will allow the child's legs to become more flexible.
Chestnuts are also suitable for the rug, as they have an ideal shape and size, useful and medicinal properties. Sew the chestnuts onto the base so that it is also soft. String the fruits on a fishing line and place the resulting beads on the carpet.
Ordinary buttons can be used for making.
For the base take:
- Old terry towel
- A pillow from a chair
- Carpet
- Thick blanket
Next do this:
- When you sew on the buttons, make sure that there are no large gaps between them.
- Place small buttons close to each other. You can form figures of footprints so that the baby can walk on them. Sew large buttons between the resulting marks.
With buttons
An excellent material for a massage mat is wine bottle corks. If you can't find the right amount, then cut them into rings of different sizes.
