INFANT PRONE POSITION TRAINING SYSTEM AND KIT

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to infant development devices, and more particularly to an infant prone position training system and kit designed to support and encourage tummy time activities for infants using adjustable supports, removable side pads, and attachable toys to assist with low tone, developmental delays, or encourage proper positioning with typical developing infants.

BACKGROUND

Infant development is a critical period of growth and learning, with physical milestones playing a crucial role in overall health and well-being. One important aspect of early physical development is the ability to engage in “tummy time,” where infants are placed on their stomachs while awake and supervised. This prone position helps strengthen neck, back, and arm muscles, which are essential for later developmental stages such as crawling and walking.

Despite its importance, many infants find tummy time challenging and may resist or become upset during these sessions. Parents and caregivers often struggle to encourage consistent and productive tummy time, which can lead to delays in motor skill development. Further, some infants may have a diagnosis or delay already that need additional assistance. Sometimes unfortunately infants are born premature, or with a diagnosis that causes delays in motor development. Cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, torticollis, down syndrome, hypotonia, plagiocephaly, or a neurological disorder can cause delays in gross motor development, making tummy time difficult for the infant and frustrating for the caregiver. Additionally, concerns about infant safety during prone positioning can further complicate efforts to implement regular tummy time routines.

Various products and methods have been developed to assist with tummy time, including play mats, support pillows, and activity gyms. However, these solutions often lack adaptability to accommodate an infant's changing needs as they grow and develop. Furthermore, many existing products do not provide adequate support or engagement for infants who struggle with the prone position.

There is a need for improved systems and methods to support infant prone position training that can adapt to different developmental stages, provide appropriate levels of support, and offer engaging stimuli to encourage longer and more frequent tummy time sessions. Such improvements could potentially enhance infant motor development, increase caregiver confidence, and make tummy time a more enjoyable experience for both infants and their caregivers.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system for infant prone position training is provided. The system includes a mat configured to provide a surface for an infant. The system also includes a support removably attachable or positionable on the top or bottom of the mat. The system further includes at least one toy removably attachable to the mat.

According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the system may include one or more of the following features. The support may comprise a plurality of supports of varying heights. The system may further comprise at least one side pad removably attachable to the mat and configured to provide lateral support for the infant. The mat may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of foam, rubber, fabric, and combinations thereof. The system may further comprise fasteners configured to secure the support to the mat, wherein the fasteners may include hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, or combinations thereof. The system may further comprise fasteners configured to secure the at least one side pad to the mat, wherein the fasteners may include hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, or combinations thereof. The mat may comprise a cover made from a material selected from the group consisting of cotton, polyester, nylon, vinyl, and combinations thereof. The support may have a length between about 10 inches and about 20 inches, a width between about 4 inches and about 8 inches, and a height between about 2 inches and about 8 inches. The at least one toy may include a variety of shapes, colors, textures, or sounds to provide visual, tactile, or auditory stimulation for the infant. The mat may comprise a non-slip surface on its bottom side to enhance stability during use. The mat may comprise a waterproof surface to protect against moisture. The mat may have a length between about 20 inches and about 30 inches and a width between about 10 inches and about 20 inches. The mat may have a thickness between about 0.5 inches and about 2 inches. The at least one toy may include one or more of a rattle, a teething ring, a plush animal, a mirror, a crinkle toy, a squeaky toy, or a textured ball.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a kit for infant prone position training is provided. The kit includes a mat configured to provide a surface for an infant. The kit also includes a plurality of supports removably attachable to the mat, wherein each support has a different height, and wherein each of the plurality of supports is configured to elevate a portion of the mat. The kit further includes at least one side pad removably attachable to each side of the mat and configured to provide lateral support for the infant. The kit also includes a plurality of toys removably attachable to the mat. The kit further includes a plurality of fasteners configured to secure the supports, the at least one side pad, and the toys to the mat.

According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the kit may include one or more of the following features. The mat may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of foam, rubber, fabric, and combinations thereof. The mat may comprise a cover made from a material selected from the group consisting of cotton, polyester, nylon, vinyl, and combinations thereof. The mat may comprise a non-slip surface on its bottom side to enhance stability during use. The mat may comprise a waterproof surface to protect against moisture. The mat may have a thickness between about 0.5 inches and about 2 inches. The plurality of supports may comprise a tall support, a medium support, and a short support, each having a different height to provide varying degrees of elevation for the mat.

The foregoing general description of the illustrative embodiments and the following detailed description thereof are merely exemplary aspects of the teachings of this disclosure and are not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described with reference to the following figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of an infant prone position training system, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the infant prone position training system in use, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the training system for infant prone position training, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates an perspective view of a side pad for use in the infant prone position training system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a support for an infant prone position training system, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of a mat for an infant prone position training system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the infant prone position training system in use, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates an perspective end view of a support for an infant prone position training system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of the infant prone position training system with an infant, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates an perspective view of a kit for an infant prone position training system, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description sets forth exemplary aspects of the present disclosure. It should be recognized, however, that such description is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, the description also encompasses combinations and modifications to those exemplary aspects described herein.

Embodiments of the present invention allow for additional help utilizing supports of differing heights to keep the infant's head raised and side supports to prevent rolling or sliding off, so the infant can look around in the proper position and keep engaged long enough to increase muscle strength of the neck and back extensors. The present invention also allows progression of development with the support levels and removable side supports to eventually allow and encourage practice for rolling when ready to target that skill. The timeframe for these developmental milestones are different for all infants, typical or delayed, and the present invention utilizing different support heights allows adjustment from the beginning of tummy time training until its graduation to more complex developmental milestones. Embodiments of the present invention not only encourages rolling with the side supports removed, but later offers a comfortable mat to allow the infant to practice sitting balance on, while reaching for the attached toys in front of them.

The present invention provides a system designed to facilitate and enhance the experience of tummy time for infants, a crucial activity for early motor development. The system includes a mat, which serves as a comfortable and safe surface for the infant during tummy time activities. The mat is designed to be used in conjunction with a support, which can be removably attached to the mat. The support is configured to elevate a portion of the mat, thereby assisting the infant in maintaining the prone position and promoting the development of neck, back, and arm muscles. The support may be provided in different heights to accommodate different sized infants or different stages of progression.

The system also includes one or more toys that can be removably attached to the mat. These toys serve to engage the infant's attention and encourage active participation in tummy time, thereby promoting sensory development and exploration. The system may be adaptable to accommodate the changing needs of the infant as they grow and develop, offering varying degrees of support and stimulation. In some aspects, the system may also include side pads that can be removably attached to the mat to provide lateral support for the infant, further enhancing safety and stability during tummy time activities.

Referring to FIG. 1, the infant prone position training system 10 is depicted. The training system 10 includes a mat 12, a support 14, and at least one toy 16. The mat 12 is configured to provide a surface for an infant during tummy time activities. In some aspects, the mat 12 may be made of a pliable material, such as foam, rubber, or fabric, which allows it to conform to the shape of the support 14 when the support is placed under the mat. This pliability of the mat 12 ensures a smooth and continuous surface for the infant, enhancing comfort and safety during use.

The support 14 is removably attachable to the mat 12 and is configured to elevate a portion of the mat. This elevation provided by the support 14 assists the infant in maintaining the prone position, which is crucial for the development of neck, back, and arm muscles. The support 14 can be attached to the mat 12 in various positions, allowing for customization based on the infant's developmental stage and needs.

At least one toy 16 is also included in the training system 10. The toy 16 is removably attachable to the mat 12, providing visual and tactile stimulation for the infant. The toy 16 encourages the infant to reach and interact during tummy time, promoting motor skill development and exploration. The toy 16 can be attached to different locations on the mat 12, allowing for adjustment as the infant's reach and interests change.

In some cases, the mat 12 may comprise a waterproof surface to protect against moisture. This feature ensures that the mat 12 can be easily cleaned and maintained, enhancing its longevity and usability. The waterproof surface of the mat 12 also provides an additional layer of protection for the infant, preventing moisture from seeping through the mat and causing discomfort or potential health issues.

Referring to FIG. 1, the mat 12 of the training system 10 may be constructed from a variety of materials. In some cases, the mat 12 may be made of foam, which provides a soft, cushioned surface for the infant. The foam may be an open or closed cell foam, offering a balance of softness and firmness that is ideal for infant use. In other cases, the mat 12 may be made of rubber, which offers durability and resilience. Rubber also provides a non-slip surface, enhancing the stability of the training system 10 during use. In yet other cases, the mat 12 may be made of fabric, which offers a soft and comfortable surface for the infant. The fabric may be a natural or synthetic material, such as cotton, polyester, or a blend thereof.

In some aspects, the mat 12 may comprise a cover made from a material selected from the group consisting of cotton, polyester, nylon, vinyl, and combinations thereof. The cover provides a protective layer for the underlying material of the mat 12, enhancing its durability and ease of maintenance. In some cases, the cover may be made of cotton, which is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for infant use. In other cases, the cover may be made of polyester or nylon, both of which are synthetic materials that offer excellent durability and water resistance. In yet other cases, the cover may be made of vinyl, which is waterproof and easy to clean, making it ideal for use in the training system 10.

The thickness of the mat 12 may vary depending on the specific needs and preferences of the user. In some cases, the mat 12 may have a thickness between about 0.25 inches and about 2 inches. A thinner mat may be more portable and easier to store, while a thicker mat may provide more cushioning and comfort for the infant. The thickness of the mat 12 may be adjusted to provide the optimal balance of comfort, support, and portability for the training system 10.

The mat 12 should be able to form around the support 14 when the support is placed under the mat such that the portion of the mat covering the support is elevated while the remaining portions of the mat are on the ground. In some aspects, this pliability of the mat 12 may allow for a smooth and continuous surface for the infant, potentially enhancing comfort and safety during use. The mat 12 may be constructed from materials such as foam, rubber, or fabric that allow it to adapt to the shape of the support 14 while maintaining a stable surface. This conforming ability may help create a gradual incline from the flat portions of the mat to the elevated section, which in some cases could assist the infant in maintaining the prone position more comfortably. Additionally, the pliable nature of the mat 12 may allow for easy storage and transport of the training system 10, as the mat could potentially be folded or rolled when not in use.

Referring to FIG. 2, the infant prone position training system 10 is shown in use. The training system 10 includes a mat 12, a support 14, at least one toy 16, and side pads 18. The mat 12 provides a padded surface for the infant to lie on during tummy time activities. The support 14 is positioned on the mat 12 and elevates the infant's upper body, facilitating the prone position. The toys 16 are placed in front of the infant on the mat 12, encouraging reaching and interaction.

In some aspects, the training system 10 further comprises at least one side pad 18 removably attachable to the mat 12. The side pads 18 are configured to provide lateral support for the infant, enhancing safety and stability during tummy time activities. The side pads 18 can be positioned on either side of the infant, preventing accidental rolling and encouraging the infant to maintain the prone position. The side pads 18 can be attached to the mat 12 using fasteners, such as hook and loop fasteners, snaps, or zippers.

In some aspects, the side pads 18 may have dimensions that complement the size of the mat 12 and provide adequate lateral support for infants of various sizes. The length of the side pads 18 may range from about 10 inches to about 20 inches, allowing them to extend along a significant portion of the mat's length. The width of the side pads 18 may be between about 2 inches and about 6 inches, providing sufficient surface area for support without impeding the infant's movement. The height of the side pads 18 may vary from about 3 inches to about 8 inches, offering a barrier that may help prevent accidental rolling while still allowing the infant to see over them. In some cases, the side pads 18 may have a tapered design, with a wider base for stability and a narrower top for improved visibility. The thickness of the side pads 18 may range from about 1 inch to about 3 inches, providing cushioning and support while maintaining a relatively low profile. These dimensions may be adjusted to accommodate different infant sizes and developmental stages, allowing the training system 10 to be used as the infant grows.

In some cases, the training system 10 can be used without the side pads 18. This allows for greater freedom of movement for the infant, particularly as they develop stronger muscles and gain better control over their movements. The absence of the side pads 18 can also encourage the infant to start practicing rolling, a key motor skill. Whether to use the side pads 18 or not can be determined based on the infant's developmental stage, needs, and the caregiver's preferences.

In some aspects, the side pads 18 may be constructed from materials similar to those used for the mat 12. The side pads 18 may be made of foam, rubber, fabric, or combinations thereof, providing a consistent feel and level of comfort across the entire training system 10. In some cases, the side pads 18 may be made of foam, offering a soft and cushioned surface for lateral support. The foam used in the side pads 18 may be open or closed cell foam, balancing softness and firmness for optimal support and comfort. In other cases, the side pads 18 may be constructed from rubber, which may provide durability and resilience. The rubber material may also offer a non-slip quality, enhancing the stability of the side pads 18 during use. In yet other cases, the side pads 18 may be made of fabric, providing a soft and comfortable surface for the infant to rest against.

The side pads 18 may also include a cover made from materials such as cotton, polyester, nylon, vinyl, or combinations thereof. This cover may serve to protect the underlying material of the side pads 18, enhancing their durability and ease of maintenance. In some instances, the cover of the side pads 18 may be made of cotton, offering a soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic surface suitable for infant use. In other instances, the cover may be made of polyester or nylon, synthetic materials that may provide excellent durability and water resistance. Alternatively, the cover may be made of vinyl, which may offer waterproof properties and ease of cleaning.

Referring to FIG. 3, the infant prone position training system 10 is depicted with various fastening mechanisms and attachment points for the support 14, side pads (not shown in this figure), and toys 16. These fastening mechanisms and attachment points allow for adjustability and customization of the training system 10 based on the infant's developmental stage and needs.

In some aspects, the training system 10 further comprises fasteners configured to secure the support 14 to the mat 12. These fasteners may include hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, or combinations thereof. The fasteners are strategically located to ensure secure attachment of the support 14 to the mat 12, enhancing the stability of the training system 10 during use. The fasteners allow for easy attachment and detachment of the support 14, providing flexibility in adjusting the elevation of the mat 12 as needed.

In some cases, the training system 10 may also include fasteners configured to secure the side pads to the mat 12. These fasteners may include hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, or combinations thereof. The fasteners are designed to secure the side pads to the mat 12, providing lateral support for the infant and preventing accidental rolling during tummy time activities. The fasteners allow for easy attachment and detachment of the side pads, offering flexibility in customizing the training system 10 based on the infant's developmental stage and needs.

The mat 12 includes a mat side pad fastener 20 located along its edge. The mat side pad fastener 20 is designed to secure the side pads to the mat 12, enhancing the stability and safety of the training system 10 during use. The mat side pad fastener 20 allows for easy attachment and detachment of the side pads, providing flexibility in adjusting the lateral support for the infant as needed.

The support 14 may include a support side pad fastener 22 located near one end. The support side pad fastener 22 complements the mat side pad fastener 20, allowing for secure attachment of the side pads to the support 14 when in use. This design ensures that the side pads remain securely in place during tummy time activities, enhancing the safety and stability of the training system 10.

The toys 16 are attached to the front edge of the mat 12 using toy fasteners 24. These toy fasteners 24 allow for easy attachment, repositioning, and detachment of the toys 16, providing flexibility in customizing the sensory stimulation for the infant. The toys 16 can be positioned at different locations on the mat 12, encouraging the infant to reach and interact during tummy time activities. The toy fasteners 24 ensure that the toys 16 remain securely in place during use, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of the training system 10.

The fastening mechanisms and attachment points of the training system 10 provide flexibility and customization, allowing for adjustment of the system based on the infant's developmental stage and needs. The fasteners ensure secure attachment of the support 14, side pads, and toys 16 to the mat 12, enhancing the stability, safety, and effectiveness of the training system 10 during tummy time activities.

Referring to FIG. 4, a side pad 18 of the infant prone position training system 10 is depicted. The side pad 18 is shown as a rectangular cushion-like component, designed to provide lateral support for the infant during tummy time activities. In some aspects, the side pad 18 may be made of a soft, cushioned material, such as foam, rubber, or fabric, providing a comfortable surface for the infant to rest against. The side pad 18 may also include a cover made from a material such as cotton, polyester, nylon, vinyl, or a combination thereof. This cover may serve to protect the underlying material of the side pad 18, enhancing its durability and ease of maintenance.

On one surface of the side pad 18, a side pad fastener 26 is visible. The side pad fastener 26 may include a hook-and-loop fastener or similar attachment mechanism. This fastener 26 allows the side pad 18 to be securely attached to and detached from the mat 12 or the support 14 of the training system 10 as needed. The side pad fastener 26 ensures that the side pad 18 remains securely in place during use, enhancing the safety and stability of the training system 10.

Referring to FIG. 5, a support 14 for the infant prone position training system 10 is depicted. The support 14 is shown as a cylindrical component with a rounded top surface and a flat bottom surface. The rounded top surface is designed to comfortably cradle the infant's chest, providing ergonomic support during tummy time activities. The flat bottom surface of the support 14 ensures stability when the support is positioned on the mat 12.

In some aspects, the support 14 may have a length between about 10 inches and about 20 inches, a width between about 4 inches and about 8 inches, and a height between about 2 inches and about 8 inches. These dimensions may be adjusted based on the specific needs and preferences of the user. For instance, a longer support may provide more surface area for the infant, while a shorter support may be more portable and easier to store. Similarly, a wider support may offer more stability, while a narrower support may be more suitable for smaller infants or for use on a smaller mat. The height of the support 14 can be adjusted to provide varying degrees of elevation for the mat 12, allowing for customization based on the infant's developmental stage and needs.

The support 14 includes a support fastener 28 located along the length of the support. The support fastener 28 appears as a strip running along the top surface of the support. This fastener 28 is designed to securely attach the support 14 to the bottom of mat 12, ensuring stability during use. The support fastener 28 allows for easy attachment and detachment of the support 14, providing flexibility in adjusting the elevation of the mat 12 as needed.

The support 14 also includes a support side pad fastener 22 located on the end of the support. This fastener 22 is designed to secure side pads to the support 14, providing additional stability and safety for the infant during use. The support side pad fastener 22 allows for easy attachment and detachment of the side pads, offering flexibility in customizing the training system 10 based on the infant's developmental stage and needs.

In some cases, the support 14 may be constructed from materials similar to those used for the mat 12. The support 14 may be made of a soft, cushioned material, such as foam, rubber, or fabric, providing a comfortable surface for the infant to rest against. The support 14 may also include a cover made from a material such as cotton, polyester, nylon, vinyl, or a combination thereof. This cover may serve to protect the underlying material of the support 14, enhancing its durability and ease of maintenance.

Overall, the support 14 plays a crucial role in the infant prone position training system 10, providing the necessary elevation for the mat 12 and assisting the infant in maintaining the prone position during tummy time activities.

Referring to FIG. 6, the mat 12 of the infant prone position training system 10 is depicted from a bottom view. The mat 12 is shown as a rectangular shape with rounded corners, providing a comfortable and safe surface for the infant during tummy time activities. In some aspects, the mat 12 may have a length between about 20 inches and about 30 inches and a width between about 10 inches and about 20 inches. These dimensions may be adjusted based on the specific needs and preferences of the user. For instance, a larger mat may provide more surface area for the infant, while a smaller mat may be more portable and easier to store.

Located on the surface of the mat 12 is a mat support fastener 30. The mat support fastener 30 appears as a rectangular strip positioned horizontally across the central area of the mat 12. This fastener 30 is designed to secure a support to the mat 12, allowing for adjustable positioning of the support during use. The mat support fastener 30 ensures that the support remains securely in place during use, enhancing the stability of the training system 10.

In some cases, the mat 12 may comprise a non-slip surface on its bottom side to enhance stability during use. This non-slip surface may be achieved through the use of textured materials or special coatings, providing additional grip to prevent the mat 12 from sliding on the floor. This non-slip feature may be achieved through various means, such as textured patterns, rubberized materials, or specialized coatings applied to the bottom surface of the mat 12. In some cases, the non-slip surface may consist of small raised bumps or ridges that increase friction between the mat 12 and the floor. In other instances, a thin layer of rubber or silicone material may be applied to the bottom of the mat 12, providing grip and traction. The non-slip surface or coating may help ensure that the mat 12 remains securely in place on the floor during tummy time activities, even when the infant moves or shifts position. This feature enhances the safety of the training system 10, ensuring that the mat 12 remains stable even when the infant is moving or pushing against the support or toys.

Referring to FIG. 7, the infant prone position training system 10 is depicted in use. The system 10 comprises a mat 12, a support 14, and toys 16. The mat 12 provides a padded surface for the infant to lie on during tummy time exercises. The support 14 is positioned on top of the mat 12 to create an inclined surface. This incline may help to support the infant's chest and arms, facilitating a comfortable prone position.

The toys 16 are attached to the front portion of the mat 12, providing visual and tactile stimulation for the infant. The toys 16 may encourage the infant to reach forward, potentially promoting motor skill development. A mat side pad fastener 20 is visible along the edge of the mat 12, allowing for the attachment of side pads (not shown in this figure). The support 14 features a support side pad fastener 22, complementing the mat side pad fastener 20 for secure attachment of side pads when in use.

The infant is depicted in a prone position on the training system 10, with their upper body elevated by the support 14. This position may allow for improved head control and visual engagement with the toys 16. The training system 10 is designed to assist infants in developing neck and back strength during tummy time activities while providing a safe and stimulating environment.

Referring to FIG. 8, an orthogonal end view of the support 14 is illustrated. The support 14 is shown as a cylindrical structure with a rounded top surface and a flat bottom surface 32. The rounded top surface may provide a comfortable and ergonomic support for an infant during tummy time activities.

At one end of the support 14, a support side pad fastener 22 is visible. The support side pad fastener 22 appears as a textured or patterned area, likely representing a hook-and-loop fastener or similar attachment mechanism. This fastener may secure side pads to the support, potentially providing additional stability and safety for the infant during use.

The support bottom surface 32 is shown as a flat surface, which may allow the support 14 to rest stably on the mat of the training system. The flat bottom design may help ensure that the support 14 maintains its position during use, providing consistent elevation for the infant's upper body.

The flat bottom surface 32 may include a non-slip surface or coating to enhance stability and prevent unwanted movement during use. This non-slip feature may be achieved through various means, such as textured patterns, rubberized materials, or specialized coatings applied to the bottom surface of the support 14. In some cases, the non-slip surface may consist of small raised bumps or ridges that increase friction between the support 14 and the mat 12. In other instances, a thin layer of rubber or silicone material may be applied to the flat bottom surface 32, providing grip and traction. The non-slip surface or coating may help ensure that the support 14 remains securely in place on the mat 12 during tummy time activities, even when the infant moves or shifts position. This feature may contribute to the overall safety and effectiveness of the infant prone position training system 10 by maintaining the intended elevation and positioning of the support 14 throughout use.

The cylindrical shape of the support 14, combined with the rounded top and flat bottom, creates a structure that may elevate a portion of the mat while conforming to the infant's body. This design may allow for adjustable positioning and support during tummy time exercises, potentially facilitating the development of neck and back strength in infants.

Referring to FIG. 9, the infant prone position training system 10 is shown in use with an infant 19 with the side pads 18 installed. The training system 10 comprises a mat 12, a support 14, toys 16, and a side pad 18. The infant 19 is shown lying on the mat 12 in a prone position. The mat 12 provides a padded surface for the infant 19 to lie on during tummy time exercises. The support 14 is positioned on top of the mat 12, creating an inclined surface. This incline may help to support the infant's chest and arms, potentially facilitating a comfortable prone position. The toys 16 are attached to the front portion of the mat 12, providing visual and tactile stimulation for the infant 19. The toys 16 are positioned to encourage the infant 19 to reach forward, which may promote motor skill development. A side pad 18 is visible on one side of the infant 19, potentially providing lateral support and preventing accidental rolling. The side pad 18 is attached to the mat 12 and extends along the side of the infant 19.

The infant 19 is depicted in a prone position on the training system 10, with their upper body elevated by the support 14. This position may allow for improved head control and visual engagement with the toys 16. The infant's arms are extended forward, reaching towards the toys 16, demonstrating the intended use of the training system 10 to encourage motor skill development and engagement during tummy time activities.

Referring to FIG. 10, the kit 40 for the infant prone position training system is depicted. The kit 40 includes several components designed to support and engage an infant during tummy time activities. Among these components are a plurality of supports of varying heights, including a tall support 14a, a medium support 14b, and a short support 14c. Each of these supports is designed to provide a different degree of elevation for the mat 12, allowing for customization based on the infant's specific needs and developmental stage.

In some aspects, the tall support 14a may be about 4-6 inches high, preferably about 5 inches. This height is designed to be used in early infancy when the infant cannot yet hold their face off the mat 12 independently. The tall support 14a provides a significant degree of elevation, allowing the infant to see toys 16 and their environment, encouraging exploration and interaction.

In other cases, the medium support 14b may be about 3-4 inches high, preferably about 3.5 inches. This height is designed for infants who have developed some neck and upper body strength and can lift their head but still need assistance maintaining the position. The medium support 14b provides a moderate degree of elevation, allowing the infant to use more of their muscle strength as they excel at the previous height.

In yet other cases, the short support 14c may be about 1-3 inches high, preferably about 2 inches. This height is designed for infants who are excelling in the tummy time position but still benefit from slight elevation. The short support 14c provides a minimal degree of elevation, assisting with continued motivation to lift the head and continue muscle development.

The varying heights of the supports 14a, 14b, and 14c allow for a gradual decrease in elevation as the infant develops strength, reducing the risk of instability. The supports 14a, 14b, and 14c can be interchanged to adjust the elevation of the mat 12, accommodating various developmental paces. In general, the difficulty increases as the support height decreases. This design offers the ability to train on various levels, making the system adaptable to a wide range of developmental stages and needs.

Referring to FIG. 10, the kit 40 for the infant prone position training system is further depicted. The kit 40 includes a variety of toys 16 that can be removably attached to the mat 12. These toys 16 may include a variety of shapes, colors, textures, or sounds to provide visual, tactile, or auditory stimulation for the infant. In some cases, the toys 16 may include one or more of a rattle, a teething ring, a plush animal, a mirror, a crinkle toy, a squeaky toy, or a textured ball. These toys 16 are designed to engage the infant's attention and encourage active participation in tummy time, thereby promoting sensory development and exploration. The toys 16 can be attached to different locations on the mat 12, allowing for adjustment as the infant's reach and interests change.

The kit 40 also includes a mat 12 configured to provide a surface for an infant. The mat 12 may be made of a soft, cushioned material, such as foam, rubber, or fabric, providing a comfortable surface for the infant to rest against. The mat 12 may also include a cover made from a material such as cotton, polyester, nylon, vinyl, or a combination thereof. This cover may serve to protect the underlying material of the mat 12, enhancing its durability and ease of maintenance. In some aspects, the mat 12 may have a length between about 20 inches and about 30 inches and a width between about 12 inches and about 20 inches. These dimensions may be adjusted based on the specific needs and preferences of the user. For instance, a larger mat may provide more surface area for the infant, while a smaller mat may be more portable and easier to store.

The kit 40 further includes a plurality of supports removably attachable to the mat 12, each support having a different height. These supports may include a tall support 14a, a medium support 14b, and a short support 14c. Each of these supports is designed to provide a different degree of elevation for the mat 12, allowing for customization based on the infant's specific needs and developmental stage. The supports 14a, 14b, and 14c can be interchanged to adjust the elevation of the mat 12, accommodating various developmental paces.

In addition, the kit 40 includes at least one side pad 18 removably attachable to each side of the mat 12. The side pads 18 are configured to provide lateral support for the infant, enhancing safety and stability during tummy time activities. The side pads 18 can be positioned on either side of the infant, preventing accidental rolling and encouraging the infant to maintain the prone position. The side pads 18 can be attached to the mat 12 using fasteners, such as hook and loop fasteners, snaps, or zippers.

The components of the kit 40 are designed to work together, allowing for customization of the tummy time experience based on the infant's developmental stage and needs. The supports 14a, 14b, and 14c can be interchanged to adjust the elevation of the mat 12, while the side pads 18 and toys 16 can be attached or removed as needed. This design offers the ability to train on various levels, making the system adaptable to a wide range of developmental stages and needs.

In some aspects, the mat 12 of the training system 10 may be designed for easy storage. For instance, the mat 12 may be folded in half or rolled up when not in use. This feature allows for convenient storage and transport, making the training system 10 suitable for use in various locations, such as at home, at a daycare, or during travel. The ability to fold or roll the mat 12 also reduces the space required for storage, making the training system 10 a practical choice for caregivers with limited storage space.

In some cases, the mat 12 may be constructed from open or closed cell foam. Both types of foam offer several advantages for use in the training system 10. Open cell foam is soft and breathable, providing a comfortable surface for the infant. Closed cell foam, on the other hand, is denser and more durable, offering excellent support and longevity. Both types of foam are lightweight, making the training system 10 easy to move and store. The choice between open or closed cell foam may be determined based on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

In some aspects, the thickness of the mat 12 may range from about 0.25 inches to about 1.5 inches. A thinner mat may be more portable and easier to store, while a thicker mat may provide more cushioning and comfort for the infant. The thickness of the mat 12 may be adjusted to provide the optimal balance of comfort, support, and portability for the training system 10.

In some cases, the training system 10 is designed to accommodate infants from birth through the crawling stage, typically up to about 30 pounds. This weight capacity ensures that the system 10 can support most infants throughout their tummy time developmental stages, including newborns and young infants using the highest support 14a, developing infants using the medium support 14b, and more advanced infants using the lowest support 14c. As the infant grows and develops stronger muscles, they can eventually use the mat 12 without any supports, allowing for free movement and exploration in a padded space. The weight capacity of the training system 10 may be determined based on safety considerations and the typical weight range of infants in the target age group.

A number of implementations have been described. It will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.