In this article, we look at the AquaDoodle Mat, AKA the AquaDoodle Draw N Doodle Mat, which provides hours of fun for children aged 2 and over.
Kids the world over love to draw. For younger ones, the surface they draw on doesn’t matter to them – just ask any parent!
They will happily draw on paper, boxes, or books. Or even the floor or walls if that’s the only suitable surface they can find!
While it’s preferable that they draw on paper, it is not the best option for the environment. And constantly having to buy paper, crayons, and markers becomes expensive after a while.
Floors and walls are obviously not a good option either, at least not for those of us who don’t relish the thought of having to clean these regularly.
If you’ve ever wished your children could have a surface to draw on that would never need replacing, didn’t require cleaning, and could stand up to just about anything kids can throw at it, listen up. The AquaDoodle Mat fits the bill perfectly, providing children with a clean and reusable place to draw while cutting down on mom’s workload.
There are several mats in the range, so be sure to check them all out. Along with the Aqua Doodle Classic Mat featured here, there are travel versions, wall mats, themed mats, accessories., and more
AquaDoodle Mat Specs
Dimensions – The AquaDoodle Classic Mat measures 13″ x 16″ x 2″
Weight – It weighs 4.16oz
How Does AquaDoodle Work?
While there are several types of AquaDoodle Mat, all pretty much work in the same way. Consisting of drawing pens which when filled with water activate a hydro chromatic ink solution, this becomes invisible upon drying. The drawings on each corner of the mat dry to a different color, these being red, green, purple, and blue.
Your child will be able to draw for as long as he or she likes, with their “artwork” lasting for the few minutes it takes for the ink to dry. When it does, they are able to resume drawing on the mat with a clean slate.
Drawing pads of varying sizes designed to be used with the pens are included in each kit.
Who is it For?
The manufacturer of the AquaDoodle Mat recommends it for children between the ages of 2 and 10. With its chunky pens, roomy drawing surface and temporary feature, it is 
especially suited to toddlers and preschoolers. Encouraging creativity, the AquaDoodle Drawn N Doodle Mat will engage them for hours.
I bought one for each of my nieces when they 2 and 3 years old. Eighteen months later they still use them from time to time. This is pretty impressive when the rate at which kids abandon their toys is often very swift.
Parents love that the AquaDoodle Mat saves them money that they would have to spend on paper, paints, and crayons. And, with younger children often viewing just about any surface as ideal for displaying their artwork, parents appreciate that they will no longer have to spend time scrubbing crayon off walls and floors.
Pros of the AquaDoodle Mat
- Convenient and mess-free
- Non-toxic and environmentally-friendly
- Cost-effective
- Light enough for toddlers to lift and carry effortlessly
- A soft cloth border is gentle on little hands, knees, arms, and other body parts
- Drawings will be either red, green, purple, blue; or all of these colors if the entire surface is drawn on
- Big enough for two kids to use at once
- Comes with an extra pen
- Is machine washable
- Takes just minutes to dry
Cons of the AquaDoodle Mat
- Drawings cannot be kept as they inevitably disappear
- When working on large or detailed pictures, the first section may dry and therefore disappear before the drawing is finished
- Can’t be dried in a clothes dryer
Final Thoughts on the AquaDoodle Mat
Buyer reviews for the AquaDoodle Draw N Doodle Mat are incredibly positive overall. It’s been featured in various magazines and trade journals, and it has won numerous awards. It is loved by young kids, appreciated by their parents, and lauded by those in the toy industry.
Fostering their artistry, it’s not unusual for kids to use their AquaDoodle Mat for extended periods of time and to do so quietly, which is another plus for mom, dad, and older siblings.
Very reasonably priced for all it provides, you really can’t go wrong with this great invention that would make a fabulous gift for just about any youngster.
To read reviews of other fun toys for young kids, click this link.
