A play mat gym is a soft, cushioned floor mat that is usually equipped with features that have been designed to stimulate several aspects of early development. Baby activity mats are available in a variety of styles with features that vary according to overall design and theme. A play mat activity gym is a helpful item for new parents who can use the soft surface as a safe place to cuddle with their baby and encourage development through play with the gym's functional accessories.
Features
Select a play mat according to the features with which you would like your child to interact. These mats come in a variety of colors and themes, such as pink floral or yellow and brown jungle animal. Some mats feature noises such as rustling or rattling parts while others may have music or squeaking sounds. Play activity mats may include an activity bar with hanging toys or a circular tube in which the child sits in the center and accesses the features that surround him. The lightweight, foldable features of these mats make this a toy to take along and provide activity wherever you go.
Tummy Time
Tummy time is an important part of baby development. Place an infant on her tummy to encourage her to push up, hold her head up and eventually crawl. Because she is used to spending a lot of time either sitting in a swing or sleeping on her back, your baby may not feel comfortable with tummy time. Play mats that feature mirrors, rattling toys and objects of visual interest to a child in this position stimulate your baby.
Activity Bar
The play mat activity bar is usually a soft arch that hangs above baby as he lies on the surface of the mat. Toys that hang from the bar may be within reach and make sounds when kicked or pulled to encourage your child to kick his feet and grasp with his hands.
Sensory Activities
Play mats provide your baby with tools for sensory development. The different textures of the toys help her discover the sense of touch while the dangling toys, light and music options promote the senses of sight and sound. Schedule some time daily to interact with your child and help her discover the sensations of these features on her play mat.
Movement
Stretching, rolling over, reaching, kicking and grasping are all movements that promote your baby's muscle development. While these play mat activities require your hands-on assistance in the beginning, your baby will be learn to manipulate and move on his own long before he outgrows the play mat.
Considerations
The play mat provides a soft play space on which your baby can learn and grow. However, it is only a safe place for baby when supervised by an adult. A baby activity gym should always be placed on the floor where baby cannot fall if she rolls off the soft surface. Once she has developed to the stage of ability to play on her own, nearby adult supervision is still necessary to ensure safety during play mat activity time.
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