Yoga isn’t just for adults sipping green juice; it helps kids improve flexibility, muscle tone, and focus while reducing stress. But let’s be real, putting a small child on a giant, slippery adult mat is a recipe for frustration (and potential boo-boos).
The best yoga mats for kids provide a safe, cushioned zone for them to wiggle, stretch, and wobble. A dedicated mat defines their personal space and makes the practice feel like a special, grown-up activity.
If you are looking for the perfect spot for your mini-yogi to practice their Downward Dog, we tested the top options on the market. Here are the 10 best mats for toddlers, tweens, and teens.
- Safe mat with grip on both surfaces
- Durable product with lifetime guarantee
- Free downloadable kid’s yoga class
- 100% non-toxic
- Durable, thick, 5mm mat
- Videos and app included
- Less than half the price of other mats
- Grippy, textured surface for safe use
- Child-friendly prints
- Travel-friendly with storage & carry bag
- Has 11 large yoga pose cards
- Lightweight & easy to roll up
- Easy to carry at only 165 lbs
- Dual-layered & reversible
- Good grip & safe for younger kids
- Machine washable & super easy to clean
- Made by US family-run business
- More affordable than other options
- Includes how-to poster to guide kids
- Matching adult & child mat option
- Free app & instructional videos
- Printed with 24 yoga poses
- Soft & foamy texture
- Plenty of room for taller kids
- Includes a carrying strap
- Safe organic rubber
- Washes easily by hand
- Bright colors & cheerful graphics
- With 24 yoga pose cards
- Perfect for playtime
Why Kids Need Their Own Yoga Mats
While sharing your mat is sweet, there are practical reasons to get them their own gear:
- Cushioning: Kids have knobbier knees and elbows than adults. A proper mat makes holding poses for 30 seconds much more comfortable.
- Safety and Grip: Socks on hardwood floors are a slip hazard. A yoga mat provides traction to keep your child (and the mat) in one place during balance poses.
- Focus: A mat creates a visual boundary. It helps define “yoga time” as a specific activity rather than just rolling around on the carpet.
- Ownership: Having their own gear fosters independence and makes them more excited to participate.
What to Look For
Buying a mat involves more than just picking their favorite color. Here is what we looked for during our review process.
Product Reviews
We evaluated these mats based on grip, material safety, durability, and that all-important “fun factor.”
Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat For Kids
Best Yoga Mat for Toddlers
Gaiam is a giant in the yoga industry, and their kid’s line brings that same quality to a smaller format. This mat features fun, engaging designs, like dinosaurs, birds, and rocket ships, on one side and a solid color on the reverse.
Constructed from PVC, it is durable enough to withstand tantrums and toy cars. Importantly, it is free from the six most harmful phthalates, making it a safer choice than generic PVC mats. It is 3mm thick, which is standard for stability, though perhaps a bit thin for napping.
Cleaning is a breeze; just wipe it down with mild soap and water. It repels moisture, so it won’t get waterlogged. It’s a fantastic entry-level mat that balances quality and price perfectly.
Pros
- Excellent grip helps prevent slipping.
- Free from harmful phthalates.
- Includes access to a free downloadable yoga class.
Cons
- May have a slight plastic smell when first unwrapped (air it out for 24 hours).
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 60 x 24 inches |
| Thickness | 3mm |
| Age Range | 5 – 8 years |
| Material | PVC |
Our Ratings
Chi Universe Yoga Mat
Best Easy-to-Clean Yoga Mats For Kids
If you want your child to learn proper alignment without nagging them, the Chi Universe mat is a winner. The graphic design isn’t just for looks; the symbols on the mat show kids exactly where to place their hands and feet for different poses.
It is 5mm thick, providing extra cushioning for bony knees compared to standard mats. Made from non-toxic, double-layered PVC, it is durable and free from harmful chemicals.
The standout feature for parents is the hygiene factor. The surface is incredibly easy to wipe clean and dries quickly. Plus, it comes with a free app and videos that turn yoga into a game, helping kids follow along with the symbols on the mat.
Pros
- Visual alignment system helps kids learn poses independently.
- Thicker 5mm construction offers great comfort.
- Includes an app and video tutorials.
Cons
- Price point is higher than standard mats.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | Not specified |
| Thickness | 5mm |
| Age Range | 4 – 9 years |
| Material | Polyvinyl chloride |
Our Ratings
YogaDirect Fun Yoga Mat for Kids
Best Cheap Yoga Mat for Kids
Not sure if your child will stick with yoga for more than a week? The YogaDirect Fun Mat is the perfect low-risk investment. It is highly affordable, meaning you won’t feel guilty if it eventually becomes a fort roof instead of a workout tool.
Available in simple, bright designs like turtles, suns, or butterflies, it appeals to younger children. The texture is surprisingly “sticky” and high-tack, providing excellent traction on carpet or hardwood.
While marketed as 6mm in some places, it feels closer to a standard 3-4mm. It holds up well to regular abuse, and the rounded corners help it lay flat without curling up constantly.
Pros
- Very budget-friendly.
- High-tack surface prevents slipping.
- Cute, simple designs for toddlers.
Cons
- Thinner than some premium options.
- Strong “new mat” smell initially.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 60 x 24 inches |
| Thickness | 3 mm |
| Age Range | 3 – 8 years |
| Material | PVC |
Our Ratings
AbTech Kids Yoga Mat Set
Best Yoga Mat Set For Kids
This isn’t just a mat; it is a full starter kit. The AbTech set includes a mat, a carrying bag, and, our favorite part, a set of yoga pose cards. These cards allow children to create their own “flow” by laying out the sequence they want to do.
The cards feature cartoons, instructions, and even Sanskrit names, adding an educational layer. The mat itself is lightweight (2.6 lbs) and made from polymer resin PVC that is latex-free and phthalate-free.
It rolls up easily, and the bag makes it simple for your child to tote their own gear to the park or a class. It gives them a sense of autonomy over their practice.
Pros
- Complete set with bag and instructional cards.
- Lightweight and portable for small children.
- Interactive cards encourage independent play.
Cons
- Cards lack detailed verbal instructions.
- Designs are specific and might not appeal to all tastes.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 60 x 24 |
| Thickness | 5 mm |
| Age Range | 3 – 12 years |
| Material | Latex, phthalate-free PVC |
Our Ratings
Yogi Junior Extra Thick Yoga Mat for Kids
Safest Yoga Mat for Kids
If you are worried about chemicals, Yogi Junior is a top contender. This mat is made from TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), which is free from PVC, BPA, latex, and phthalates. It is a fantastic choice for kids with sensitivities or allergies.
The dual-layer design features significant texturing on both sides, making it super grippy. This prevents the mat from sliding across the floor and keeps your child’s hands planted firmly during Downward Dog.
It is extra thick, providing a plush surface for playing or resting. The mat is also reversible, giving you two color options in one, which helps extend the time between deep cleans.
Pros
- Made from TPE; free from common toxins and latex.
- Reversible dual-layer design.
- Highly textured for superior grip.
Cons
- Slightly shorter than standard kid’s mats.
- Limited graphic designs (mostly solid colors).
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 52 x 24 inches |
| Thickness | 6mm |
| Age Range | 0 – 7 |
| Material | TPE foam |
Our Ratings
Bean Products Kids Yoga Mat
Best Non-Slip Yoga Mat For Kids
Parents, rejoice: this mat is machine washable. While most mats require hand wiping, the Bean Products mat can handle a gentle cycle, which is a lifesaver if your child spills juice or tracks mud onto it.
It is a thinner mat (around 3mm), so it doesn’t offer massive cushioning, but it is incredibly durable. It’s made in the USA and free from phthalates and heavy metals.
The designs lean toward solid colors, but there are a few fun options like emojis or pandas. The texture is sticky and safe, and the price point is very reasonable for a U.S.-made product.
Pros
- Machine washable for easy deep cleaning.
- Made in the USA.
- Affordable and durable.
Cons
- Thinner profile offers less padding.
- Fewer character designs available.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 60 x 24 inches |
| Thickness | 3 mm |
| Age Range | 4 – 9 years |
| Material | Clean PVC™ |
Our Ratings
Phresh LLC Kids, Tween, & Adult Yoga Mats
Best Yoga Mat For Tweens
Tweens are in that awkward “too big for kiddie stuff, too small for adult stuff” phase. The Phresh mat bridges that gap perfectly. It is narrower than a standard mat but designed to teach body alignment using printed shapes and lines.
The system is called the “Chi Mat” method. It includes a double-sided poster and access to an app with instructional videos. While some parents might want to avoid screens, the app actually gamifies the yoga practice, which can be highly motivating for the 8-12 age group.
It helps tweens practice independently without needing a parent to correct every pose. The material is durable and offers decent grip, though the unique graphics take some getting used to.
Pros
- Designed specifically for growing bodies and alignment.
- Includes poster and app for guidance.
- Great transition mat for older kids.
Cons
- App integration might increase screen time.
- Graphics are instructional rather than decorative.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 60 x 18 ½ inches |
| Thickness | 5 mm |
| Age Range | 4 – 9 |
| Material | PVC |
Our Ratings
Really Good Stuff: Children’s Yoga Mat
Best Beginners Yoga Mat For Kids
This mat is printed with 24 different yoga poses right on the surface, making it a self-contained cheat sheet. Your child can look down, see a pose, and try to mimic it immediately.
However, you should know that this feels more like a camping foam roll than a traditional sticky yoga mat. It is thick and comfortable, but the surface is smooth and lacks the grip of rubber or textured PVC. It can get slippery if your child has sweaty hands.
Because of the foam texture, it also tends to absorb dirt more easily than closed-cell mats. It is best suited for light play, stretching, or a comfortable nap spot rather than rigorous yoga flows.
Pros
- 24 printed poses make it easy to start without instruction.
- Soft, foam-like texture is great for lounging.
- Large size accommodates taller kids.
Cons
- Surface can be slippery (low grip).
- Absorbs dirt and is harder to keep pristine.
- Does not lay perfectly flat immediately.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 68 x 24 inches |
| Thickness | 5mm |
| Age Range | 4 years to 14 years |
| Material | PVC |
Our Ratings
Zuly: Eco-Friendly Kids Yoga Mat
Most Durable Yoga Mat For Kids
The Zuly mat is a premium option that looks and feels different from the rest. It features a natural rubber base for serious floor grip, topped with a soft microfiber suede surface.
Here is the catch with suede mats: they actually get grippier when they are slightly wet. If your child has dry hands, the mat might feel soft and slippery. A quick spritz of water from a spray bottle before practice solves this instantly.
The designs are beautiful (we loved the space theme), and the included carrying strap is a nice touch. It is machine washable on a gentle cycle, but you must air dry it. It is an investment, but the materials are top-notch and eco-friendly.
Pros
- Natural rubber base stays planted on the floor.
- Soft suede top is comfortable and luxurious.
- Includes a carrying strap.
Cons
- More expensive than PVC or TPE mats.
- Requires moisture to activate the best grip.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 60 x 24 inches |
| Thickness | 10 mm |
| Age Range | 3 – 12 years |
| Material | Microfiber Suede and Organic rubber |
Our Ratings
Alex Active: Yoga Kids Activity Exercise Blocks
Best Colorful Yoga Blocks for Kids
Okay, this isn’t a “mat” in the traditional sense; it is a game. The Alex Active set consists of 24 foam tiles that interlock. Each tile features a pose and a sand timer graphic (15, 30, or 45 seconds).
It is fantastic for toddlers and preschoolers because it turns exercise into a puzzle. They can build a long runway, a square, or separate islands. It is more about active play than learning perfect form.
Be aware that these tiles can slide apart during vigorous movement, so it isn’t safe for practicing balancing poses or headstands. Think of it as an active playroom floor rather than serious yoga gear.
Pros
- Modular tiles allow for customizable shapes.
- Bright, engaging, and puzzle-like.
- Encourages movement through play.
Cons
- Tiles can separate during use.
- Not suitable for serious yoga practice.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 10 x 10 x 4.3 inches |
| Thickness | Not specified |
| Age Range | Up to 3 years |
| Material | Plastic |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Dimensions | Thickness | Age Range | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat | Yoga Mat for Toddlers | 60 x 24″ | 3mm | 5 – 8 years | PVC |
| Chi Universe Yoga Mat | Easy-to-Clean Yoga Mats For Kids | N/A | 5mm | 4 – 9 years | Polyvinyl chloride |
| YogaDirect Fun Yoga Mat | Cheap Yoga Mat for Kids | 60 x 24″ | 3 mm | 3 – 8 years | PVC |
| AbTech Kids Yoga Mat Set | Yoga Mat Set For Kids | 60 x 24 | 5 mm | 3 – 12 years | Latex, phthalate-free PVC |
| Yogi Junior Extra Thick Yoga Mat | Safest Yoga Mat for Kids | 52 x 24″ | 6mm | 0 – 7 | TPE foam |
| Bean Products Kids Yoga Mat | Non-Slip Yoga Mat For Kids | 60 x 24″ | 3 mm | 4 – 9 years | Clean PVC™ |
| Phresh Yoga Mats | Yoga Mat For Tweens | 60 x 18 ½” | 5 mm | 4 – 9 | PVC |
| Really Good Stuff: Children’s Yoga Mat | Beginners Yoga Mat For Kids | 68 x 24″ | 5mm | 4 years – 14 years | PVC |
| Zuly: Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat | Most Durable Yoga Mat For Kids | 60 x 24″ | 10 mm | 3 – 12 years | Microfiber Suede & Organic rubber |
| Alex Active: Activity Exercise Blocks | Colorful Yoga Mat for Kids | 10 x 10 x 4.3″ | N/A | Up – 3 years | Foam |
Tips for Getting Kids to Exercise
Getting kids off the couch can sometimes feel like negotiating a hostage release. Here are some strategies to make movement fun rather than forced.
Gamify the Experience
If you tell a child to “do exercise,” they might groan. If you tell them to “roar like a lion” (Lion’s Breath) or “stand tall like a mountain” (Tadasana), they are in. Use animal names, make sound effects, and turn the practice into a story where they have to act out the characters.
Monkey See, Monkey Do
Kids are sponges. If they see you rolling out your mat and enjoying your practice, they will naturally want to mimic you. You don’t need to force them to join; just leave an extra mat nearby. Curiosity will usually do the rest.
The Buddy System
Social motivation is huge. Invite their friends over for a “yoga playdate.” You can put on a YouTube yoga story (like Cosmic Kids Yoga) and let them follow along together. It turns solitary exercise into a group event.
Keep It Low Pressure
For organized sports, the pressure to perform can be high. Yoga is the antidote to that competition. Remind them that it is called yoga practice, not yoga perfect. If they fall out of a tree pose, laugh about it and try again.
Let Them Lead
Hand over the reins. Let your child choose the yoga video, pick the music, or decide which three poses you are going to do together. When they feel in control, they are much more likely to buy into the activity.
FAQs
Namaste, Little Ones
Yoga is a gift that keeps on giving. It builds strength, improves coordination, and provides kids with tools to manage their big emotions.
Whether you choose a high-tech alignment mat or a simple budget-friendly option, the most important thing is that it gets used. A colorful, properly sized mat might be just the invitation they need to start their journey toward mindfulness and movement.






















