5 Sensory-Based Activities to Try with Your Child
Engaging your child’s senses through play and exploration is a fantastic way to support their development and create meaningful connections. Sensory-based activities help children process the world around them, improve fine motor skills, and build creativity. An Independent School in Oxfordshire have shared five fun and interactive sensory activities to try:
DIY Sensory Bins
Create a sensory bin filled with materials like rice, beans, sand, or water beads. Add scoops, small toys, or cups for your child to explore. Sensory bins encourage tactile exploration and are great for developing fine motor skills and imaginative play.
Nature Walk and Scavenger Hunt
Take a walk outdoors and create a sensory scavenger hunt. Encourage your child to feel tree bark, smell flowers, listen to birds, and collect leaves or rocks. This activity stimulates multiple senses and helps children connect with nature.
Homemade Playdough or Slime
Making and playing with homemade playdough or slime engages touch and provides a creative outlet. Let your child mix colours, add textures like glitter, or use cookie cutters to shape their creations. The process of making these materials can also be a fun science experiment.
Cooking and Baking Together
Invite your child into the kitchen to bake cookies, make pizza, or prepare a smoothie. They can measure ingredients, mix batter, and explore textures and smells. Cooking is a sensory-rich activity that also teaches valuable life skills.
Painting with Unusual Tools
Swap out paintbrushes for tools like sponges, cotton balls, or even leaves. Experimenting with different textures and techniques can make painting a multi-sensory experience. Encourage your child to feel the materials and describe how they interact with the paint.
Sensory-based activities are more than just fun; they play a vital role in your child’s development. By incorporating these activities into your routine, you can create a stimulating environment that nurtures their curiosity, creativity, and growth. Try these ideas and watch your child’s senses come alive!