The Kiani Ellie the Elephant Portable Activity Board is a handcrafted, Montessori-inspired activity board shaped like a friendly elephant, made to turn any spot in the house into a hands-on play corner. With spinning gears, sliding beads, touchable textures and simple manipulatives all in one place, it invites babies and toddlers to explore motions, sounds and surfaces at their own pace — a screen-free way to keep curious hands busy.
Because it sits flat and weighs around 2 kg, Ellie moves easily from tabletop to lap to floor, so playtime can happen wherever you happen to be. Every interactive element is securely attached to the board, and the whole piece is handcrafted in South Africa from durable materials designed to last through plenty of play.
Hands-on play that invites exploration
Each feature on the board offers something different to fiddle with, turn and slide, giving little ones the chance to practise fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and focus as they play. The variety of tactile activities gives children room to explore and repeat what interests them, supporting problem-solving and creativity without a screen in sight.
How it works
- Spinning gears: Turn and rotate to explore cause and effect and practise wrist and finger control.
- Sliding beads: Move along their track for repeatable, satisfying hand-and-eye play.
- Touchable textures: Different surfaces invite sensory exploration through touch.
- Simple manipulatives: Small hands-on elements encourage independent, self-directed play.
Made to move with you
At 45 × 30 × 5 cm, the board is slim and lightweight enough to carry from room to room or pack along for time at grandparents' or a friend's. Its elephant shape and green, grey and pink palette also make it a warm, decorative addition to a play space or nursery when it's not in use.
Best For
The Kiani Ellie the Elephant Portable Activity Board is a great option for parents who:
- Want a screen-free, hands-on activity for independent play
- Are looking for something portable that works on a table, lap or floor
- Like the idea of a handcrafted, locally made piece that doubles as a decorative element
- Want a variety of tactile features in one board to keep little ones engaged
It may not be the best fit if you:
- Are looking for a stationary activity centre or walker that supports baby in an upright seated position
Pandylane Pro Tip: Because Ellie is flat and light, she slips easily into a nappy bag or car — handy for keeping little hands occupied during appointments, meals out or long drives.
Develops fine motor skills, coordination, and focus
Engages children in sensory-rich learning
Variety of interactive elements for hands-on exploration
Lightweight and portable for flexible play
Handcrafted in South Africa with durable, high-quality materials
- 1x Ellie the Elephant Portable Activity Board