Most parents realize the importance of picking out educational, age-appropriate toys for their little ones. However, what most people don’t know is that the type of play surface they use can be equally as important. If you’d like to take your baby’s play quality to the next level, here’s what you should know about play surfaces.
Why should kids play on the floor?
Children are recommended to play on the floor because it provides several benefits:
- Developmental advantages: Playing on the floor helps babies develop gross motor skills, like holding their heads up, rolling over, crawling, and sitting up. It’s also a great way for them to master fine motor skills as they reach for toys and manipulate them.
- Exploration: When babies play on the floor, they have the opportunity to explore their surroundings and learn about the world around them. They can touch, feel, and manipulate objects, which helps them to develop their senses.
- Safety: The floor is a safe and comfortable place for babies to play. Floor play reduces the risk of falls and injuries.
- Bonding: Playing on the floor with your baby can help you connect with them. It allows parents to interact with the baby at their level and encourages eye contact and communication.
Do children need a play mat?
Bare floors aren’t soft and comfortable enough for children to play on.
Here are some reasons why you should get a play mat for your kids:
- Cushioning: A play mat provides a soft and cushioned surface for children to play on, which can be especially helpful for younger children who are still learning to crawl or walk. It can protect them from bumps and bruises if they fall. This is why indoor playgrounds are typically fitted with soft flooring.
- Hygiene: A play mat is often easier to clean than other surfaces, which is particularly important if your child is prone to allergies or if you have pets in your home.
- Learning: Play mats often have interactive features like patterns, shapes, and colors, which can help stimulate a child’s senses and encourage their cognitive development.
What is the best material for a play mat?
The best material for a play mat depends on factors like safety, durability, and ease of cleaning.
Here are some commonly used materials:
- Foam is a popular choice because it offers comfortable cushioning and it’s simple to clean. It’s a non-toxic material and comes in various sizes, colors, and thicknesses.
- Rubber is durable and provides good traction, which makes it particularly suitable for outdoor play areas. It’s also easy to maintain.
- Fabric is soft and comfortable, which makes it great for babies and toddlers. The fact it can be machine washed is a big plus.
- PVC is waterproof, so it’s easy to clean. Make sure you select a non-toxic option.
Overall, you should look for a material that’s safe, durable, and easy to clean. Also, select a size and thickness that will provide adequate cushioning. There are different fun patterns to choose from to complement your little one’s bedroom.
What are the biggest red flags for children’s play surfaces?
Here’s what to avoid to protect your children:
- Hard surfaces, increase the risk of injuries. Since they don’t offer enough cushioning, kids could get hurt while playing.
- Unsafe materials, exposure to which can cause serious health problems, such as respiratory problems.
- Slippery materials can lead to falls.
- Surfaces are hard to maintain, so they tend to get dirty quickly and have the potential to cause bacteria build-up and infections.