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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:

  
Toddlers
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139 play ideas for Toddlers in the "Sensory play" playlist

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.
5m
30m
Shadow tracing
Shadow tracing
Trace shadows on the ground or wall using chalk, a fun way to spend time outside while blending art and science.
1m
15m
Nature faces
Nature faces
Create playful faces using loose parts from nature like leaves, shells, sticks, and stones.
0m
30m
Walking rainbow experiment
Walking rainbow experiment
Watch colours travel and blend across a paper towel to create a rainbow in this simple science experiment!
2m
20m
  ·  make it
Kitchen mix lab
Kitchen mix lab
Mix, pour, and experiment with everyday wet and dry ingredients in this open-ended kitchen play.
3m
30m
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.
5m
45m
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Hidden "kindness rocks"
Hidden "kindness rocks"
Paint and hide colourful rocks for others to discover, or go on your own nature treasure hunt.
5m
60m

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Get some you-time
Get some you-time
Build connection
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Learn through play
Learn through play
Play for your inner child
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