Water Mat Tummy Time Press Play
Place your baby on an inflatable water mat and watch them press, pat, and track colorful floating toys — tummy time with a sensory twist.
What You'll Need
- 1Inflatable water play mat
- 2Flat firm surface or play mat
What You'll Need
An inflatable water play mat (available at most baby stores)
A flat, firm surface or play mat underneath
How to Play
Inflate the water play mat and fill the water chamber according to the directions.
Lay it on a flat surface — a foam play mat on the floor works great.
Place your baby on their tummy on top of the water mat.
Tap the surface to make the floating toys inside drift around — your baby will be fascinated.
Encourage your baby to press their hands down and feel the water shift.
Point to the floating objects and name them as they move: "Look at the fish! There goes the star!"
Let your baby stay as long as they're engaged — the cool mat and moving colors hold attention surprisingly well.
Tips
Check the mat for leaks before every use. Run your hand across the surface while pressing down.
The slight resistance of pushing against water is fantastic for building arm and shoulder strength.
If your baby isn't into tummy time yet, prop them on a nursing pillow so they can still see and press the mat.
Try placing the mat in a sunny spot — the light catches the floating objects and creates extra visual interest.
These mats also work well for sitting babies who like to slap and pat surfaces.
Age Adaptation Tips
For babies, focus on sensory exploration. Let them watch, touch, and feel the materials. Always supervise closely and keep small items out of reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 10 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: inflatable water play mat, flat firm surface or play mat.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 0-1 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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