At Country Therapy, we recognise the importance of sensory play in supporting sensory processing and overall development in children. Sensory experiences can be easily integrated into daily life, and the best part is that you don't need specialised equipment or materials.
Why sensory play matters
Sensory play helps children develop critical skills, including:
- Sensory integration and processing
- Fine motor skills and hand eye coordination
- Problem solving and critical thinking
- Emotional regulation and self awareness
Sensory play also:
- Enhances creativity and imagination
- Supports cognitive development and learning
- Fosters independence and self confidence
- Encourages social skills and communication
5 DIY sensory activities using household items
Sensory bins
Fill containers with rice, beans, sand, or pasta, and hide small toys or other objects for your child to discover. You can also add different textures like fabric, foam, or water.
Homemade playdough
Mix flour, water, salt, and food colouring to create a tactile experience. Add scents like essential oils or herbs for an extra sensory dimension.
Water play
Fill a container with water and add soap, sponges, and cups for a fun and educational experience.
Sensory bottles
Fill empty bottles with water, oil, sand, or rice, and add food colouring, glitter, or small objects for visual and tactile exploration.
Nature exploration
Collect items from nature, like leaves, rocks, and sticks, and create a sensory bin or collage.
Tips and precautions
Before you start
- Supervise children during sensory play to ensure safety.
- Adapt activities to suit your child's individual needs and sensitivities.
- Encourage open ended exploration and imagination.
- Set boundaries and clean up expectations.
- Engage with your child during sensory play to foster bonding and social skills.
Sensory play benefits for different age groups
Sensory play helps develop foundational sensory skills, hand eye coordination, and cognitive development.
Sensory play enhances exploration, fine motor skills, and language development.
Sensory play fosters creativity, problem solving, and social skills.
Getting started with sensory play
- Begin with simple activities and gradually increase complexity.
- Observe your child's interests and preferences.
- Incorporate sensory play into daily routines (e.g. bath time, outdoor play).
- Make sensory play a family activity to encourage bonding.
By incorporating sensory play into your daily routine, you can support your child's development and foster a lifelong love of learning. At Country Therapy, our occupational therapists are dedicated to helping children reach their full potential.
Get started today
Gather household items, get creative, and watch your child's imagination and development thrive.
Talk to our teamAll information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.
References and further reading
- American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), Sensory Processing and Integration, aota.org
- PBS Parents, Sensory Play: Exploring Nature, pbs.org
- Child Mind Institute, Sensory Processing Issues, childmind.org
- Brightwheel Blogs, Sensory Play: A Guide for Parents, mybrightwheel.com
- The Sensory Connection
- Occupational Therapy for Children
- Verywell Family, "DIY Sensory Bottles for Kids"