Why Sensory Play Matters More Than You Think

Why sensory play matters more than you think

While playing with slime, splashing in water, sliding down a slide, and climbing a jungle gym are fun, those activities are also supporting your child to learn about the world.

Sensory play can support:

 Attention and focus

 Fine motor skills and prewriting skills

 Balance and coordination

 Regulation

 New textures and sounds

 Creativity and problem solving

Activities to try at home for each sensory system:

 Tactile (Touch): Play with play dough, kinetic sand, shaving cream, or water.

 Vestibular (Movement & Balance): Swing, spin, jump on a trampoline, or create an obstacle course.

 Proprioceptive (Body Awareness/Heavy Work): Push a laundry basket, carry groceries, or perform wheelbarrow walks.

 Visual (Sight): Complete puzzles, play “I Spy,” sort colorful objects, or use flashlights in a dark room.

 Auditory (Hearing): Play musical instruments, sing songs, or listen for sounds on a nature walk.

 Olfactory (Smell): Smell spices while cooking, smell flowers outside, or play with scented playdough.

 Gustatory (Taste): Make homemade popsicles, trial crunchy vs. soft foods, or help prepare a meal together.