A puzzle on a yoga mat.

[ $10-$25 | 30 minutes or less | no mess ]

Put your yoga mat to work when you’re not in class by letting your kids use it as a backdrop for jigsaw puzzles. Even over carpet, the surface is firm enough that the pieces lay flat, and it has a little bit of grip so that they don’t slide around and fall apart.

If you don’t have a yoga mat lying around, you can get one for under $20 at any sporting goods store. They also make great play surfaces for babies just learning to crawl. The extra traction helps keep little knees and toes from sliding around without causing rug burn.

What do you do with your yoga mat when you’re not doing Sun Salutations? Post your ideas in the comments.