At Country Therapy, we recognize 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 specialized equipment or materials. Common household items can become the perfect tools for exploration and learning.
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 coloring 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 coloring, 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
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
Infants (0-12 months): Sensory play helps develop foundational sensory skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive development.
Toddlers (1-3 years): Sensory play enhances exploration, fine motor skills, and language development.
Preschoolers (3-5 years): Sensory play fosters creativity, problem-solving, and social skills.
Resources
For more information and inspiration, check out these reliable sources:
The Sensory Connection
Occupational Therapy for Children
Verywell Family: "DIY Sensory Bottles for Kids"
PBS Parents: "Sensory Play: How to Encourage Learning Through Play"
American Occupational Therapy Association: "Sensory Processing and Integration"
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.
References:
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): Sensory Processing and Integration. https://www.aota.org/community/special-interest-sections/sensory-integration-and-processing
PBS Parents: Sensory Play: Exploring Naturehttps://www.pbs.org/parents/five-senses#:~:text=Create%20a%20sensory%20match%20game,of%20searching%20for%20textured%20treasures !
Child Mind Institute: Sensory Processing Issues.https://childmind.org/article/sensory-processing-issues-explained/
Brightwheel Blogs: Sensory Play: A Guide for Parents.https://mybrightwheel.com/blog/everything-to-know-about-sensory-play-the-ultimate-guide#:~:text=Children%20learn%20best%20through%20engagement,skills%20development%20in%20all%20children .
Comments