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Sensory Play

Sensory play is play that encourages children to use one or more of the senses. 

 

Why sensory play is important

1. Kids are designed to explore the world through their senses.

2. Sensory play promotes language development. Kids find new ways to talk about their world.

3. Engaging in sensory play with peers or siblings builds social skills.

4. Sensory play is great for building motor skills.

5. Exploring sensory materials helps kids’ emotional development. It can be very calming for kids – relieving energy or stress – and bring a great amount of joy as they explore materials in an exciting way.

6. Since how kids use sensory materials is much more important than what they make with it, sensory play promotes creativity. By solving problems or engaging in make-believe, their creativity is enhanced.

 

Simple sensory play ideas

  • Playing in the sandbox

  • Gathering items from nature

  • Playing with a tub of bubbles

  • Washing toy dishes

  • Using play dough

  • Finger painting

  • Smearing shaving cream on a baking sheet

  • Pouring water in different containers

  • Measuring and pouring dry rice

     

  • Helpful resources