5 Kids Yoga Mats That Will Make Your Child Love Yoga
You want your child to enjoy movement, calm their mind, and build healthy habits — and the right mat makes a big difference.
A gaiam kids yoga mat or a similarly sized, cushioned mat gives your child the right surface for balance, play and quiet time.
In this review, you’ll find mats chosen for kid-friendly size, safety, grip, and designs that actually invite practice, so you can pick one that fits your child’s age, space, and budget.
Top Picks
| Category | Product | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Best Overall | Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat, Twinkle Toes | $16.99 | 95/100 |
| 💰 Best Value | Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat, Rainbow Stars | $16.99 | 94/100 |
| ⚡ Best Comfort | Gaiam Premium 6mm Print Yoga Mat, Supernova SKY | $22.51 | 90/100 |
| 🔊 Best Durability | Gaiam Premium 6mm Print Yoga Mat, Aubergine Swirl | $22.51 | 89/100 |
| 🎯 Best for Beginners | Plyopic Kids Yoga Mat – Flamingo Pink | $39.99 | 82/100 |
How We Picked These Mats
You want a mat that feels safe, fun, and useful.
We prioritized: size (kid-sized dimensions so poses fit and the mat is easy to roll), thickness (thin enough for balance but cushioned for knees), material safety (PVC vs.
Eco‑TPE and phthalate information, grip (textured, non-slip surfaces), durability and washability, kid-friendly prints that encourage regular use, price and value, and real customer feedback.
We also considered extras like downloadable classes or carrying straps that make the mat easier for your child to use independently.
Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat — Twinkle Toes
If you want a mat that actually gets your kid excited to roll out and move, this Gaiam kids yoga mat is a great pick.
It’s sized for little bodies (60″ x 24″) so poses don’t feel awkward, the printed designs draw kids in, and the textured, slightly tacky surface helps keep them steady during wiggle-filled practice.
Use it for daily morning stretches, bedtime wind-downs, classroom yoga, or bringing it along to a weekend family picnic where the kids want space to play.
It’s lightweight and easy to roll, and the included downloadable kids yoga class makes it simple to get started. If your child is between about 5 and 8 and you want something playful that still performs, this mat is an easy, kid-approved choice.
What People Say
Parents frequently note the perfect child-sized fit, fun prints that motivate kids, and a grippy surface that stays put during practice.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ A Small Cup of Jo
Exactly child-sized at 60″ x 24″, lightweight PVC that’s latex- and phthalate-free, textured non-slip surface, attractive kid-friendly design, and easy to roll and store; durable in regular use.
🗣️ Ann M.
Nice, thick and durable mat; non-slip surface worked well for my six year old and held up during regular practice.
When To Use It
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Home Playtime | Creates a defined, comfy space for stretching, balance games, and quiet-time routines so yoga feels like play. |
| School or Club | Sized to fit cubbies and classroom mat racks, and the non-slip texture keeps kids steady during group activities. |
| Travel & Outings | Lightweight and easy to roll, so that you can bring a familiar mat to grandparents’ houses, picnics, or weekend stays. |
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Balance & Coordination | The smaller surface encourages proper foot placement and helps kids practice steady poses without overreaching. |
| Focus & Calm | A dedicated mat plus fun prints makes it easier to create a short, calm routine that builds attention skills. |
| Flexibility & Strength | Daily stretching and basic yoga moves on a cushioned surface help develop muscles and improve range of motion. |
Versatility
Works for yoga, balance practice, stretching, quiet-time, and light play, and the downloadable class adds ready-made routines.
Look
Bright, kid-friendly prints like Twinkle Toes make the mat feel fun rather than like exercise gear, which helps motivate use.
Comfort
At 3 mm thickness, it provides a little cushion, comfortable for most kids while still maintaining balance challenges.
Kid Friendly
Designed with kids in mind: playful designs, lightweight build, and non-toxic materials help parents feel good about daily use.
Key Benefits
- Child-sized dimensions that fit little bodies
- Textured non-slip surface for safer practice
- Lightweight, easy to roll and store
- Non-toxic PVC formulation (6P free)
- Includes a downloadable kids yoga class
Current Price: $16.99
Rating: 4.8 (total: 9,235+)
Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat — Rainbow Stars
If you want a mat that actually gets your child excited to roll out and move, this Gaiam kids yoga mat is an easy choice.
You’ll like that it’s sized for little bodies (60″ x 24″), has bright Rainbow Stars prints that draw kids in, and a lightly textured, tacky surface that helps them stay steady while they practice.
It’s lightweight, rolls up easily for storage, and includes a downloadable kids yoga class so you don’t need to plan the first session.
Use it for weekday stretches, bedtime wind-downs, classroom yoga, or bringing a familiar mat to playdates and picnics.
If your child is roughly 5–8 years old and you want something playful that still performs, this mat makes yoga feel like play.
What People Say
Parents mention the perfect kid-sized fit, fun prints that encourage use, and a grippy surface that holds up during regular practice.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ A Small Cup of Jo
Exactly child-sized at 60″ x 24″ and easy to roll; lightweight PVC construction that’s latex- and phthalate-free; the textured non-slip surface kept the mat in place during school exercises and the design motivated regular use.
🗣️ Ann M.
Great mat for my six year old grandson — nice thickness, durable, and non-slip so he could practice without sliding around during sessions.
When To Use It
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Home Routines | Makes stretching and bedtime wind-downs feel like a special activity with a familiar, comfy spot to practice. |
| School Or Club | Fits cubbies and classroom spaces and stays put during group activities thanks to the textured surface. |
| Travel & Visits | The lightweight roll-up design lets you bring a familiar mat to grandparents’ houses, picnics, or weekend trips. |
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Balance & Coordination | The smaller size encourages proper foot placement and helps kids practice steady poses without overreaching. |
| Focus & Calm | A dedicated mat and fun design make it easier to form short, calm routines that build attention skills. |
| Flexibility & Strength | Daily stretching and basic poses on a cushioned surface help develop muscles and improve range of motion. |
Versatility
Suitable for yoga, balance games, stretching, quiet time, and light play, the included class offers quick routines to follow.
Look
Bright Rainbow Stars print makes the mat feel playful rather than like exercise gear, so kids are more likely to use it.
Comfort
At 3 mm thickness, it provides a modest cushion—comfortable for most kids while still allowing balance practice to be effective.
Kid Friendly
Designed for kids with playful prints, a lightweight build, and a non-toxic (6P-free) PVC formulation that eases parental concerns.
Key Benefits
- Child-sized dimensions that fit little bodies
- Textured non-slip surface for safer practice
- Lightweight and easy to roll for storage or travel
- Non-toxic PVC formulation (6P free)
- Includes a downloadable kids yoga class to get started
Current Price: $16.99
Rating: 4.8 (total: 9,235+)
Gaiam Yoga Mat — Supernova SKY
You’re looking at a cushioned, colorful mat that actually makes rolling out feel inviting. The Gaiam Premium 6mm Print mat (68″ x 24″) is extra thick, so it cushions knees and wrists, yet still gives you a tacky surface that helps keep poses steady.
Because it’s non-toxic and 6P-free, it’s a bit easier to feel good about using with kids — especially older children who need a full-length mat.
Use it for weekday family stretches, a calm bedtime routine, backyard yoga sessions, or to bring to a studio class when you want extra padding.
The printed designs are genuinely appealing, and the included downloadable class is handy when you need a quick plan.
If you want a durable, cushioned option that can double as a family mat (think teen or bigger kids), this one’s worth considering as a Gaiam kids yoga mat alternative.
What People Say
Buyers praise the cushioning and grip for safer practice, the attractive prints that motivate use, and long-term durability; a few note an initial odor that fades after airing out.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Amanda Salmoiraghi
After more than a year of regular use the mat still looks and feels new — great cushion for joints, doesn’t slip across the floor, and rolls up easily for transport. One thing to note: if it’s left rolled in a hot car the edge can curl but it flattens during use.
🗣️ Eric
Perfect balance of firmness and padding — comfortable for kneeling and protects knees without feeling unstable. Quality feels durable; initial new-mat smell fades after airing out.
When To Use It
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Home Practice | Thick padding makes floor poses and bedtime stretches comfy, so you’re more likely to keep a short daily routine with kids. |
| Studio Classes | Full-length size and tacky surface give reliable traction and extra joint protection when you bring your own mat to class. |
| Travel & Storage | Lightweight enough to roll and carry; stores easily in a closet or car — unroll and let it air if it’s been packed tightly. |
| Family Use | The playful print and durable surface let older kids borrow the mat for their stretches or for light play, making yoga feel approachable. |
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Joint Protection | Thicker 6 mm foam cushions knees and wrists during kneeling poses and floor work, reducing discomfort. |
| Balance & Stability | The textured, sticky surface helps feet and hands stay put, supporting safer balance practice. |
| Encourages Consistent Practice | An attractive print and included downloadable class make it easier to build short, regular routines with kids. |
Versatility
Works for yoga, Pilates, floor workouts, family stretches, and casual play — good as a shared family mat or for older kids who need full-length coverage.
Look
Bright Supernova SKY print looks fun and modern, helping practice feel less like a chore and more like an activity kids want to try.
Comfort
At 6 mm thickness, it offers noticeable cushioning that protects joints while still letting you feel stable for balancing poses.
Kid Friendly
Best suited for older kids, teens, or sharing across the family — fun prints attract children, but the mat is adult-sized (68″ x 24″) so it’s not tiny kid-sized.
Key Benefits
- Extra 6 mm cushioning protects knees and joints during practice
- Textured sticky surface for solid grip and stability
- Made without the top six harmful phthalates (6P-free)
- Durable print and construction that holds up to regular use
- Includes a free downloadable yoga class to get started
Current Price: $22.51
Rating: 4.7 (total: 21,714+)
Gaiam Yoga Mat — Aubergine Swirl
You’ll find this Gaiam Premium 6mm print mat is one of those pieces of gear that actually makes it easier to roll out and start moving. It’s extra-thick (68 in x 24 in) so knees and wrists feel cushioned, yet the textured surface gives you the grip you need to hold poses.
It’s made without the top six harmful phthalates, making it a better choice if you’re shopping for a Gaiam kids yoga mat for older kids or a family-shared option.
Use it for quick morning stretches, a calm bedtime routine, backyard yoga, or to bring to a studio class when you want more padding.
There’s a brief new-mat smell at first — unroll and air it for a couple of days — and the included downloadable class is a nice little boost when you need a plan.
What People Say
Buyers repeatedly mention the perfect balance of padding and stability, durable prints that stay vibrant, and a tacky surface that keeps hands and feet from slipping; a few mention an initial odor that fades after airing out.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Amanda Salmoiraghi
I do all levels and advanced vinyasa yoga. This mat is thick enough that I don’t feel the wooden floors of the studio digging into me, but also thin enough that I don’t have to worry too much about it potentially affecting my balance. I’ve found that it’s done a lot to help make me feel comfortable and to be confident in my posture and footing. The design is very nice, and even after over a year of regular use, the design is still very visible. One downside would be that, because it’s a bit of a thicker mat, if it’s rolled up for too long or left in a hot car, the edge of the mat where you started the roll might curl upwards.
🗣️ Eric
The 1/2″ yoga mats are too thick. I feel unstable on them. The 1/8″ mats are too thin. There’s not enough cushion and it’s uncomfortable when kneeling or doing plyometrics. This 1/4″ thick pad is just the right combination of firmness and padding. The general quality feels good. Durable. The new mat smell is overwhelmingly bad. Airing it out overnight helped, but it’ll need a day or two more.
When To Use It
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Home Practice | Extra padding makes kneeling poses and short family routines more comfortable, so you’re more likely to keep kids involved. |
| Studio Classes | Full-length size and grip let you bring a trusted mat to class without sacrificing traction or joint protection. |
| Travel & Storage | Light enough to roll and carry; if it’s been tightly packed, unroll and air it for a couple of days to remove any new-mat scent. |
| Shared Family Use | Playful prints and a durable surface let older kids borrow the mat for stretches or quiet play, which helps yoga feel approachable. |
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Joint Protection | Thick foam reduces impact on knees and wrists during kneeling poses and floor-based movements. |
| Stability | Sticky textured surface helps hands and feet stay planted, supporting safer balance work. |
| Consistency | An attractive print and included class material make it easier to keep short, regular routines with kids. |
Versatility
Suitable for yoga, Pilates, floor workouts, and family stretches — works as a shared mat for older kids or teens who need full-length coverage.
Look
The Aubergine Swirl print is bright and inviting, helping make practice feel more fun and less like a chore for kids.
Comfort
The 6 mm thickness gives noticeable cushioning that protects joints while still allowing you to feel stable in standing and balance poses.
Kid Friendly
Best for older kids or family sharing — the full-size mat is fun and colorful, but it isn’t a small kids’ mat, so it’s ideal for teens or larger children.
Key Benefits
- 6 mm cushioning protects knees and wrists during floor work
- Textured, sticky surface for reliable traction and stability
- Manufactured free of the top six harmful phthalates (6P-free)
- Durable printed design that holds up to regular use
- Includes a free downloadable yoga class to help you get started
Current Price: $22.51
Rating: 4.7 (total: 21,714+)
Plyopic Kids Yoga Mat — Flamingo Pink
This smaller, 6 mm Plyopic mat is the kind of kid gear that actually gets used — it’s light, rolls up easily, and comes with a sling so your child can tote it to preschool, swim practice, or a weekend class.
The printed animal poses make stretching feel like a game, which helps when you’re trying to sneak in a quick routine before bedtime or turn a rainy afternoon into movement time.
If you’ve looked at a Gaiam kids yoga mat for older kids or family sharing, this one leans more kid-sized and portable, so it’s handy when you want something just for them.
A few people mentioned a temporary new-mat smell, so unroll it and air it out if that bothers you. Overall, it’s great for everyday play, class practice, or taking on trips where space and weight matter.
What People Say
Parents highlight the playful printed poses, easy portability with the sling, and enough cushioning for young knees; a small number of buyers noted a lingering chemical smell on arrival that usually fades after airing.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Shelby
Lots of yoga poses to inspire movement and healthy living in my child. Pictures have held up well with use. Has enough cushion for my aged knees.
🗣️ NC
My daughter needed a smaller sized mat for her dry land exercises. This is easy for her to roll up and comes with the sling for carrying.
When To Use It
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Home Practice | A small footprint fits in bedroom corners or on the living room floor; the fun prints help keep little ones interested during short family routines. |
| Pool & Dry-Land Training | Compact size and rollability make it easy to slip into a bag so kids can switch from dry-land drills to pool time without hauling an adult mat. |
| School, Daycare, Camps | Durable surface and quick-dry material mean it holds up to frequent use and wipes clean between sessions. |
| Travel & Storage | Lightweight design and included strap keep it simple to pack and carry — if it smells at first, unroll and air it for a day. |
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Joint Protection | Six-millimeter cushioning reduces impact for knees and wrists during kneeling and floor moves, making practice gentler for small joints. |
| Improved Balance | Textured, non-slip surfaces help kids keep their hands and feet planted so they can try simple balance poses with more confidence. |
| Routine Building | Playful animal poses printed on the mat make it easier to turn stretching into a habit kids ask for, supporting calm and coordination. |
Versatility
Designed for yoga, basic floor exercises, and playtime movement; compact enough for swim-team dry-land routines, daycare activities, or quick family stretches.
Look
Bright flamingo-pink with animal-pose prints that feel fun without being juvenile, which helps nudge kids toward trying new moves.
Comfort
The 6 mm foam gives a soft, springy feel that cushions little knees while still letting kids feel stable during standing poses.
Kid Friendly
Sized and designed specifically for younger children (ages 3–12); the prints and lightweight carry strap make it easy for kids to claim and care for their own mat.
Key Benefits
- Kid-sized 6 mm cushioning protects knees and wrists during play and practice.
- Textured dual-surface grip helps hands and feet stay planted during poses
- Lightweight and includes a carry strap so kids can transport it themselves
- PVC-free Eco-TPE material that’s marketed as non-toxic and easy to wipe clean
- Animal-pose prints make yoga feel like a playful activity rather than a chore
Current Price: $39.99
Rating: 4.4 (total: 180+)
FAQ
Is A Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat Safe And Non‑Toxic For My Child?
You’ll want to check material labels, but many kid-sized mats from trusted brands are made with safety in mind. The Gaiam kids yoga mat options are designed for children, and the product descriptions often note latex‑ and phthalate‑free construction or that they avoid the most harmful chemicals; for example, popular kids’ prints are available at around $16.99.
If you or your child has chemical sensitivities, look for explicit wording like “phthalate‑free” or choose an Eco‑TPE option instead. When in doubt, air the mat out and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions before first use.
What Size And Thickness Should I Choose For A Child?
You should pick a mat that matches your child’s height and activity. Most kids’ mats aimed at ages five to eight come in a 60″ x 24″ format and around 3 mm thick, which is excellent for balance, stretching, and school classes because it’s easy to roll and store.
If your child needs extra cushioning for sensitive knees or lots of floor work, consider a thicker mat (around 6 mm), but know that more thickness can slightly affect balance. Also consider material: PVC kid mats are lightweight and durable, while Eco‑TPE offers a PVC‑free alternative. Choose based on the activity, your child’s comfort, and how easy you want it to be for them to carry and store.
How Do I Care For The Mat, Remove New‑Mat Smell, And Keep It From Slipping?
You can make the mat last longer and more pleasant to use by following the care steps on the product page. First, unroll and air out for 24–72 hours to reduce manufacturing odors; some families also wash or wipe the mat with mild soap and water—note that specific Gaiam kids models list either machine wash or dry‑flat care, so follow the label.
To remove lingering smell, a gentle soap wash and air drying usually works; avoid hot drying or direct sun, which can damage the mat. For grip, keep the mat and your child’s hands and feet dry, clean the textured surface regularly, and place it on a flat, dry floor. If slipping still occurs, a thin towel for sweaty hands or a slightly thicker mat can help.
Store the mat rolled, not folded, and use a strap or mat bag so it stays flat and ready for the next session. To make yoga fun and consistent for your child, pick a mat with bright prints, involve them in choosing it, and use short, playful routines—many kids’ mats even include a downloadable free kids yoga class to get you started.
What Customers Prefer
When choosing between the Gaiam Kids Twinkle Toes, Rainbow Stars, and the Supernova SKY, you mainly look for a playful design that keeps your child excited, plus a sticky, cushioned surface that prevents slips and protects joints.
You also consider size, durability, ease of cleaning, and portability so the mat fits your child’s age and your family’s routine and budget.
Wrapping It Up
Choosing a mat that fits your child changes how they relate to movement — from resisting to looking forward to practice.
Pick a kid-sized, non-slip mat with a fun design to help them build balance, concentration, and calm.
Whether you go for a dedicated Gaiam kids yoga mat in various sizes and prints or a thicker, premium mat for extra cushioning, the right choice makes yoga accessible, safe, and enjoyable for your child.
| Product | Image | Rating | Material | Dimensions | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat – Twinkle Toes |
 |
4.8/5 (9,235 reviews) | Polyvinyl Chloride | 60″ L x 24″ W x 0.11″ Th | 1.8 Pounds | $16.99 |
| Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat – Rainbow Stars |
 |
4.8/5 (9,235 reviews) | Polyvinyl Chloride | 60″ L x 24″ W x 3mm Thick | 1.09 Pounds | $16.99 |
| Gaiam Yoga Mat – Supernova SKY |
 |
4.7/5 (21,714 reviews) | Polyvinyl Chloride | 68″ L x 24″ W x 6mm Thick | 1.5 Kilograms | $22.51 |
| Gaiam Yoga Mat – Aubergine Swirl |
 |
4.7/5 (21,714 reviews) | Polyvinyl Chloride | 68″ L x 24″ W x 6mm Thick | 1.4 Kilograms | $22.51 |
| Plyopic Kids Yoga Mat – Flamingo Pink |
 |
4.4/5 (180 reviews) | Eco-TPE | 59″ L x 24″ W x 0.25″ Thick | 0.7 Kilograms | $39.99 |
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