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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

DIY projector
DIY projector
Turn a recycled cardboard tube into a mini projector for simple shadow shows, storytelling and STEM learning!
5m
20m
  ·  make it
Static balloon experiments
Static balloon experiments
Can you make your hair stand up, water bend, or stick a balloon to the wall? These classic experiments are a fun & simple way to play with science.
2m
10m
Flower soup
Flower soup
Mix flowers, leaves, and water together to create your own imaginary "flower soup". A simple, nature-based sensory activity that sparks imagination and outdoor play.
2m
30m
Bouncing bubbles recipe
Bouncing bubbles recipe
Make extra strong bubbles you can catch and bounce from everyday kitchen ingredients
5m
20m
  ·  make it
2-ingredient fake snow recipe
2-ingredient fake snow recipe
Create soft, moldable snow with just two ingredients
3m
30m
  ·  make it
Cover me
Cover me
Let the kids cover you with blankets & cushions while you get a mini rest!
1m
10m
Magnet paper clip sort
Magnet paper clip sort
Use a magnetic wand or fridge magnet to collect and sort paper clips for some simple STEM play.
2m
15m
Bear Hunt sensory tray
Bear Hunt sensory tray
Bring the classic We're Going on a Bear Hunt to life with a sensory tray inspired by the pages of the book.
5m
30m
Skipping stones
Skipping stones
A classic, calming outdoor activity that’s all about focus, coordination, and the joy of watching ripples dance across the water.
0m
10m
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Painting with cars
Painting with cars
Use toy cars to make colourful tracks and patterns with paint
5m
20m
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