And by “all-around” I mean literally all-around! This unique learning game–okay, it’s more like an interactive tool disguised as a game–incorporates a u-shaped mat so learning takes place all around your child. I am always up for reviewing and testing any product that takes a new twist on learning!

The U-Play Mat was designed by a New York pediatrician and mother of four. The design allows your child to sit and the floor, inside the opening of the U, and have full access to 15 clear pockets (5 on each side and 5 in front). The mat comes with about 8 sets of theme-based cards from animals to food to letters and you fill those clear pockets with those cards. For younger children you might only place 5 cards in front whereas for older children you’ll fill the entire thing. Then you get to make up games to play to help your child learn names, colors or even find matches. The mat, which comes with a tote to help organize the cards, also comes with some ideas for games you can play and then you can take it from there.

We set up the U-Play Mat on our family room floor and with a little direction from Mom, my oldest two took charge of a little learning time with their younger siblings. Livi went first:

And then George soon followed:

The girls had a great time working with the flash cards and cheering on their little brother and sister and I loved watching it all happen. My favorite part about it other than the super cool, super unique design? I didn’t have to locate a pair of AA or C batteries to get the thing going. We are far too plugged in at our home and going unplugged was definitely a welcome change. I was smiling the whole time while watching them get into our new U-Play Mat. How could you not when you have this taking place on your family room floor.  Note at the end how Livi is super “anxious” (i.e. throwing a small fit) for her next turn:

We really had a great time with the U-Play Mat and with 8 sets of flash cards it’s sure to be a hit for a while. (And now I’ve found a great way for my oldest two to keep the youngest two busy!) The U-Play Mat is an all-around great time for our kids! –Emily

* Promotion! Play This Way is offering Daily Dish readers 10% off their U-Play Mat purchase! Simply enter code BOUTIQUE10 when checking out.

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