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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.

Filtered by:

  
Preschool
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120 play ideas for Preschool in the "Sensory play" playlist

Magic growing worms experiment
Magic growing worms experiment
Create wiggly, rainbow-coloured "worms" from tissues or kitchen roll that grow and reveal hidden colours when you water them.
2m
15m
Rainbow flower hunt
Rainbow flower hunt
Head outside for a gentle colour matching adventure, spotting flowers and tiny natural treasures.
5m
30m
Magnetic tile pulley
Magnetic tile pulley
Build a simple pulley using magnetic tiles and household items. A hands-on STEM invitation that sparks curiosity, problem-solving, and pretend play.
3m
20m
  ·  make it
Rainbow rocks
Rainbow rocks
Decorate rocks with chalk or paint for an easy and creative outdoor art activity
5m
20m
Flower chain
Flower chain
A classic nature-inspired craft that combines outdoor exploration with a hands-on flower weaving activity.
1m
20m
Paint a pumpkin
Paint a pumpkin
A simple, mindful art-ivity using pumpkins as your canvas. A creative way to use them in season and low fuss alternative to carving!
3m
20m
Bubble bowl
Bubble bowl
A simple and mindful sensory activity using water, a squeeze of dish soap and a straw to blow and pop bubbles in a bowl!
1m
10m
Puffy paint taste-safe recipe
Plus
Puffy paint taste-safe recipe
A soft, squishy paint you can microwave for a magical puff! Made from basic pantry ingredients.
10m
20m
  ·  make it
No-cook play dough recipe
No-cook play dough recipe
Your go-to for a no-cook, taste-safe play dough recipe
2m
10m
  ·  make it
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Spray bottle target practice
Spray bottle target practice
Use a spray bottle to knock lightweight balls off toilet rolls! A simple, satisfying target game that builds focus, hand strength, and coordination while keeping things cool and fun.
2m
10m

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