Sensory Play

Sensory Play...its easier than you think.

Here is a good link explaining why sensory play is great for developing minds. 

https://busytoddler.com/sensory-activities/

Any google search will give results to help you with ideas for Sensory Bins or Boxes.  They have great ideas, but do you have those items on hand?  Here is list of suggestions for things you probably have, and things you're probably already doing some of at home. 


Bath time, add some cups, spoons, funnels, colanders, basically add anything that they can pour and explore with. 

Add some bubbles, can also add some smell, added sensory! Let them wash dishes with you or make the Santa beards in the tub, shaving cream is fun to add as well.  If you want to really get creative, make your own shaving cream.  Talk about sensory activity, smells texture, noise and science to boot. 

Ice, put it in a plastic container and let them play with it as it melts.  Make your own of different sizes and color, freeze small items in the ice too.  Add a couple of pieces to the bath and then talk up the science of what's happening

Sensory trays.  Bins or boxes.  You can create a small box with a food storage container using beans, rice, noodles (dry or cooked), shredded paper, water or ice. It can be anything with texture or has an interesting feel when you put your hands in it. Bury objects for them to find, of let them explore with cups and spoons.  A flat tray with salt, or in a large ziplock bag.   

Cooking.  Tasting and smelling the ingredients, touching the flour, pouring the milk, cracking an egg, all those are sensory!

Outside - Play in the dirt! Make a Pile of leaves, Swing, draw with chalk or water and paintbrush.  Feel the grass, pick the flowers.