Toddler Nap mats are wonderful things. They provide young children with cozy, clean, and comfortable places to fall asleep. More and more parents are coming to value them for their versatility. They are light enough and small enough to be portable, enabling you to have one handy wherever a need arises.

Many different toddler nap mats are available today, from quite basic, thin vinyl-covered ones, to thick, cushy, and fabric-covered. The instances for using a nap mat are endless. They are ideal for travel, camping, sleep-overs, kindergarten, daycare, and Mothers' Day Out. Even at home, they are appreciated for their easy "instant bed" quality. Your child can rest in any room, yet still enjoy his or her own special designated spot. If your child is frightened by a nightmare or thunderstorm, he or she can sleep in the comfort of your room near you without taking over your bed.

Preschool nap mats are an essential component in every daycare or preschool classroom setting. There can be no nap time if the children did not have these mats after all. This activity does more than make the children rest and recharge. Many studies assert that taking a short nap sometime during the early afternoon can help boost children's physical and mental development. Children who take regular naps are said to have longer attention spans and are less prone to throwing tantrums.

Fitted fabric covers are the most affordable way to transform a boring nap mat into something your child with love, decorated with their favorite fun characters. These covers simply slide over the nap mat like a large pillowcase. The options really are endless, and some people make custom covers and offer personalization. The covers really do perk up an old or ugly mat, and are particularly appreciated for the fact that they can be washed so easily.

When it comes to nap mats, the variety of choices can be overwhelming. Yet you can narrow them down by considering what features are most important to you and your child, and depending where you intend to use the mat the most. For instance, some day cares require that the pillow be attached. Some parents are looking for a particular design or character, such as pink butterflies, Disney Princesses, or Thomas the Train. And for others, the biggest deciding factor is affordability.

Most kids nap mats are very affordable. But do keep in mind the fact that the mat will likely get a lot of use, especially if you have more than one child, and it might be worth spending a bit more for a nicer one.