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Sensory play

Sensory play

Simple sensory play ideas and recipes to engage and calm

Squish it, shake it, pour it, swirl it - sensory play is all about discovering the world through touch, sight, sound, smell, and movement. It can be so beneficial for all ages as a calming tool, and for aiding developmental milestones like fine motor skills and even social skills.

And it doesn't need to be complicated! We understand sensory play can be an intimidating concept; perhaps you're concerned about safety risks, or worried about the cleanup?

This list contains a wide range of simple sensory activities that cater to many comfort levels - from messy fun like oobleck and cloud dough to soothing water play and mindful sensory walks.

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All play ideas in Sensory play

Pattern tracing
Pattern tracing
Trace simple patterns to support early writing skills in a fun, low-pressure way.
5m
20m
Rain in a jar experiment
Plus
Rain in a jar experiment
Create a mesmerising mini weather system at home.
2m
10m
  ·  make it
Silly sandwich faces
Silly sandwich faces
Turn snack time into play time by making funny-faced sandwiches with your little one.
2m
10m
  ·  make it
Sticky tape nature bracelet
Sticky tape nature bracelet
Head outside to collect little treasures on a wearable nature bracelet.
1m
20m
Sponge transfer
Sponge transfer
Squeeze, squish, and soak! All you need is a couple of sponges, bowls, and water for this fine motor workout with a sensory twist.
2m
10m
What's on my bum?
What's on my bum?
A hilarious sensory guessing game that gets lots of giggles and builds body awareness.
1m
5m
Magnetic tile coin run
Magnetic tile coin run
Build a simple coin run with magnetic tiles, encouraging STEAM learning and imaginative play.
2m
10m
Chalk and wipe
Chalk and wipe
Draw letters or shapes with chalk, then wipe it clean with some sensory water play.
3m
20m
Play dough poke
Play dough poke
A simple fine motor workout - just grab some play dough and things to poke into it!
2m
10m
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Taste-safe dirt sensory recipe
Plus
Taste-safe dirt sensory recipe
A scented, bumpy sensory dough that mimics dirt for taste-safe play.
3m
10m
  ·  make it
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