Play mats for infants, is it a thing? 

Congratulations on welcoming your precious little one into the world! And welcome to the wild ride of parenthood. One of the most common questions we get asked at baby expos is “what age do babies need a play mat?”, so today I thought we’d look at why newborn babies need a baby play mat and how to choose the best play mat for your family. As a parent, you want to provide the best environment for your newborn's growth and development. Play mats can be an essential must have item to assist with that journey.  

Importance of Play Mats for Newborns

Play mats are more than just soft surfaces for babies to lie on; they are interactive learning spaces that stimulate your newborn's senses and encourage exploration. The contrasting colours, engaging textures, and space to spread out and move on play mats captivate their attention and promote sensory development.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Play Mat

1. Safety: Opt for play mats made from non-toxic materials and with sturdy construction to ensure your newborn's safety during playtime. You don’t want a play mat that is too soft so that they sink when they push up.
2. Size and Portability: Consider the size of the play mat to fit your nursery or living space comfortably. Look for options that are big enough for you to hop down with them as this can be a bonding experience for you and your infant.
3. Design and Features: Choose a play mat with visually appealing designs and interactive elements that have child focused designs to keep your newborn engaged and entertained.
4. Easy Maintenance: Look for play mats that are easy to clean with a wipeable surfaces, to maintain hygiene and so that you don’t have to spend forever in the laundry.

Setting Up a Safe and Engaging Play Area

Create a safe and stimulating play area for your little one by placing the play mat on a flat, even surface away from hazards like cords or sharp edges. Surround the play mat with age-appropriate toys and sensory objects to encourage exploration and development. You don’t need to have all your toys out at once. Rotate through to keep them interested and include different settings or every day objects to keep their interest.

Benefits of Using a Play Mat for Newborns

• Promotes Tummy Time: Encourage your newborn to strengthen their neck and back muscles through supervised tummy time sessions on the play mat.
• Enhances Cognitive Development: The colorful patterns and interactive features of play mats stimulate your baby's cognitive skills and spatial awareness.
• Supports Sensory Exploration: Different textures and sounds on the play mat engage your newborn's senses, fostering sensory development.
• Use as they Grow: play mats are not only great for newborns, but they'll also be able to continue to use their playmat as they develop and grow few new activities such as crawling, walking, sensory exploration and as a safe play space.

Investing in a high-quality play mat for your newborn is a wonderful way to create a safe, comfortable, and stimulating environment for early learning and development. Consider the safety features, design elements, and practicality when choosing the best play mat that suits your baby's needs and your lifestyle. Happy playing and exploring with your little one!