Sensory play plays an important role in a child’s learning and development. Much of our learning comes through our ability to use our senses to retain information.

Sensory play is a lot of fun. It also offers many benefits for child development, including:

• Helping children understand how their actions affect what’s around them.
• Supporting brain development, enhancing memory, complex tasks and problem solving.
• Developing fine motor skills through tactile play (useful when children want to hold a pen or use scissors for example).
• Supporting language development, communication and social skills.
• Enhancing memory and observational skills.
• Encouraging creative and independent thinking.
• Emotional regulation by providing a calming effect on children’s angry or anxious feelings.

Action for Children - 'What is sensory play and why is it important?'

Make your own playdough

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of flour (any type)
• 1/4 cup of salt
• 1/2 cup of warm water (you can add more if needed)
• 3-5 drops of food colouring

Method:

1. You’ll need a big bowl to mix in, a large spoon and aprons on!
2. Mix together the flour and the salt in the large bowl
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the warm water and the food colouring
4. Slowly pour the water into the flour and salt mixture, and stir to mix. Keep stirring until the dough starts to form then take out of the bowl and knead with hands.
5. If the dough is sticky, more flour can be added. If it’s too dusty, try a little more water.

Create a Sensory Bin

There are so many things you have in your home that can be turned into a sensory

play activity. Why not collect them all together and make a sensory bin? Start in the

kitchen as this is where you can make the most of things like rice, dried beans and

lentils.

Encourage children to explore the sensory bin – both with their eyes open to see the

colours and shapes, and with their eyes closed to really focus on textures and how things

 feel. Let your child add to the sensory bin whenever they like with new additions – overall, a great sensory activity

 

You can visit these websites for more ideas…

 

Action for Children - 'What is sensory play and why is it important?'

https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/blog/what-is-sensory-play-and-why-is-it-important/

Videos to support understanding of sensory play and lots of practical ideas for things to do at home to support sensory play

 

Sensory Play

https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/kids-sensory-play-ideas/

Recipes and ideas to make at home, including some taste safe and edible ones.

 

Story Massage

https://www.storymassage.co.uk/

You can watch the videos on their YouTube page and follow along.

https://www.youtube.com/c/StoryMassageforChildren

 

List of Sensory Play Ideas https://www.learning4kids.net/list-of-sensory-play-ideas/ A wide range of sensory ideas – some of which are mess free or relatively easy to tidy up and some messier ideas if you            are feeling brave!   150 Sensory Learning Ideas https://inclusiveteach.com/2020/03/20/150-sensory-learning-ideas/ Loads of ideas here – something suitable for all abilities   Singing Hands Sing and sign along to some of your favourite songs and rhymes! https://www.youtube.com/@SingingHandsUK   Sense Scotland Lots of ideas to support sensory play and exploration. https://www.sensescotland.org.uk/be-playful/   Please click below for booklets linked to each season for ideas you can do at home: