Play-mat road
Use a flat play mat as a path for a large toy and explore along, around and beside.
5 minutesWhat you'll need
One-piece non-slip play mat laid completely flat · One-piece toy vehicle or animal labelled suitable for children under 3
Before you start
Can manipulate large household objects
Best fit: indoors · medium energy · low caregiver effort · low mess
How to play
- Lay the mat completely flat and choose one path across it.
- Move the toy along the path.
- Let your child reshape the route.
Move the toy along one straight flat path and model once.
Use a flat play mat as a path for a large toy and explore along, around and beside.
Add a choice between two routes.
Route planning and position ideas your child invents.
Keep the non-slip mat completely flat with no folds, hills, tunnels or loose covering. The route is for the toy only; stay within arm's reach, stop mouthing or climbing, and store mat and toy afterward.
Why it may be useful
This gives your child room to explore while you add just enough help to keep the puzzle interesting.
moderateGuided-play evidence is stronger in preschool samples; toddler activities should remain simple and child-led.
Weisberg, Hirsh-Pasek and Golinkoff (2016) — Guided Play: Principles and Practices
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