Let's get loud.  This rug is so off the charts "carnival" compared to the rest of my house but we knew from the reviews my 2 year old would love it.  He does.  And so does everyone who comes into his room - made super fun by this rug!!! He does love to find animals on it.  The only downside is that it is so busy - pattern-wise - that he doesn't always see toys on it and can trip and fall!  But we just are diligent about clean up and that's a good thing anyway.  Just saying - legos and this rug will not mix - you will be stepping on them like crazy!  It camouflages little toys so watch out.  Otherwise - no complaints.  No super harsh smell, quite low pile with very minimal padding (not a cushy foot fell at all), good vibrant colors, and rolled out nice and flat.