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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Tabies (18-24 mths)

123 play ideas for Tabies in the "Sensory play" playlist

Bouncing bubbles recipe

Bouncing bubbles recipe

Make extra strong bubbles you can catch and bounce from everyday kitchen ingredients

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.

What's on my bum?

What's on my bum?

A hilarious sensory guessing game that gets lots of giggles and builds body awareness.

Scrape painting

Scrape painting

Drag paint across paper to create colourful patterns, blends, and textures. A satisfying process art activity that invites creativity, experimentation, and sensory play.

Nature faces

Nature faces

Create playful faces using loose parts from nature like leaves, shells, sticks, and stones.

Kitchen mix lab

Kitchen mix lab

Mix, pour, and experiment with everyday wet and dry ingredients in this open-ended kitchen play.

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Fairy garden

Fairy garden

Create a tiny fairy garden using natural materials and your imagination! This calming activity weaves a little magic into the day while gently sparking an interest in gardening.

Find more ways to play

Get some you-time

Get some you-time

Build connection

Build connection

Learn through play

Learn through play

Play for your inner child

Play for your inner child

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