There is something strange about children. They move about quite drunkenly, swaying left and right with every tentative step. And they enjoy psychedelic colors and the types of activities that might appeal to adults caught in altered states of consciousness: jumping into ball pools, playing in the sand, eating the inedible. Further proof: they can fixate on their hands for hours. Children, one might say, are in a state of mind that's equivalent to being high. The underlying theme for kids is wonderment-they seem to be surprised at virtually everything.

3D Apple Activity Mat. Manufactured by Wesco.

Soft, Colorful Play Mats for Tots

A company like Wesco North America, which manufactures children's educational and play furniture, knows how to attract these little creatures by appealing to their sense of curiosity. Their activity mats, for example, lure in children with bright colors and interesting textures. Wesco's 3D Apple Activity Mat is a little island oasis for the inquisitive baby. Surrounded by a soft, thick edge, the Apple Mat makes tiny tots feel safe. The entire matt is filled with comfortable wadding, but it's the 3D leaf pillow that caters to a baby's urge to fall asleep-even in the midst of play.

Another Wesco offering that's playful and whimsical is the Pinnochio Mini Mat, which offers less in the way of padding and more in the way of visuals. Picturing the little wooden doll fishing along with a giant whale beneath the waves, this mat is sure to spark the imagination. For an option that comes with multiple accessories (read: toys), the Ladybug Activity Mat is sure to please.  Stuffed and soft like the Apple Mat, this Ladybug comes with six stuffed toys: ladybugs, bumblebees, and butterflies (two of each).

Besides inspiring the creativity of children, the Wesco activity mats, like all the company's products, provide maximum safety. They are also fire retardant and easy to clean, as well as environmentally friendly-Wesco believes in "the importance of our acts and the consequence they can have for our world."

About the Manufacturer: WESCO North America, headquartered in Canada, is an international leader in children's developmental products. For over 35 years, Wesco has been meeting the needs of children and making learning fun. With products from exercise mats to day care furniture, educational toys to toddler furniture-everything from art easels to sand tables and ball pools-Wesco has specialized in developing children's sport and motor skills.