How real families use theirs
Are you worried about investing in a baby play mat, scared that it will become one of those obsolete baby items which will spend a whole lot of time sitting around and not getting much use? I wanted to take the fear away for you and show you how real customers are using our play mats. Hopefully this will give you lots of inspiration for how you too can play with your baby at home.
We didn’t want to just tell you so we thought we would show you…
How real families use our play mats…
1. Tummy time with mirrors 
In the early days, tummy time for your baby is so important. It helps build strength in important muscle groups including the neck, back, shoulders and core muscles. Unfortunately, not all babies love being placed on their tummies (imagine if you were put face down without being able to move to adjust your position, lift your head or get comfy). So it’s great to see how real families are keeping it fun and entertaining for their little babies in tummy time. We love the use of mirrors by @madabouthayze.
2. Easy to clean sensory small world play
Small world play is such a fun activity to try with toddlers. You can incorporate a range of textures from household items such as split peas, other dried legumes, polenta etc. Introduce tools such as tongs, scoops and cups. And include small versions of real life animals, people or places. It encourages motor skills, social skills and imagination. Having the activity on a play mat means easy cleaning as you can pick up the mat, lift the edges and slide the mess back into the tray at the end. Voila. We love this small world play by Chelsea from @life_in_the_playroom.
3. Floor time
It’s never too early to start floor time with your new baby. It allows babies to spread out, stretch, test different muscle movements and explore their physical world. Adding toys and items like a wooden play gym provides entertainment and stimulation as it encourages your baby to move their arms and reach. Loving the neutral tones of this play gym on our floral play mat, shared to us from @misscharlotte.elise
4. Safety under climbing frames
Climbing frames such as Pikler triangles, ramps and ladders are great for encouraging toddlers to enhance their gross motor skills. But more importantly climbing also assists in the development of proprioception, vestibular and visual processing systems. These are essential for balance, coordination, and motor planning. Placing these climbing frames on our padded play mat gives you the peace of mind of a soft environment as your little one explores. Our Bigi Nagala mat coordinates perfectly with this set up by @happy_little_duo.
5. Messy water play 
On a hot day, nothing beats getting cools with some water play . This one is such a great idea by @ollie.andbear. Having a waterproof play mat under your messy play gives you an edge when it comes to the inevitable clean up. Simply wipe clean at the end and let it dry thoroughly before turning over. What more could you need? A soft play space that’s easy to clean. Win-win!