I recently came across an old yoga mat while cleaning out my closet.  It was one of those cheesy mats you can pick up for eight bucks at Ross or Marshalls.  I might have used it a few times, before it was time for something a little more substantial.  In coming across it once again, I got the itch to re-purpose.  First, I cut a few small squares out for opening jars.  They work really well for that.  Then I took the remaining mat and (after some vigorous washing) put it on the boys table.

My plan was for the mat to keep their things in place a little better.  I was really surprised at how well it worked.  Not only does it keep bowls steady, but it even works to keep paper in place for drawing.  That’s a big one.  Reese uses his left hand for everything and can’t use his right hand to steady a paper or object.  When he’s coloring or painting, the paper usually travels away from him constantly.  Watching him paint last night, without my help, was so satisfying.

I’ve noticed in therapy that they use a sticky mat to keep Reese’s feet  from sliding while working on standing.  I know an old yoga mat would work really well for that too.

Do you have other cool ways to repurpose a mat?  I feel like there must be a gillion.