3 Benefits of Sensory Play and How You Can Incorporate These Activities at Home

James Marellene - 15 May 20

Our five senses are very important, especially in a child’s early years. Look, listen, touch, smell and taste. These five fundamentals are often elements of life that we take for granted. Everyone is born with their senses and learn to adapt through the journey of life.

Sensory play is simply using a child’s senses and fine motor muscles to engage in fun and exciting activities. There are many benefits of sensory play in a child’s early years and we are here to delve into the top three.

Benefits of sensory play in a child’s early years

1. Supports early childhood development

   Sensory play is very closely connected to brain development. It is extremely beneficial in supporting early childhood skills such as language, cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills, problem-solving and social interaction. Sensory play is not only mentally advantageous, but it also aids a child’s development physically. Many ‘sensory play’ activities involve physical skills such as splashing, moulding and scoping which requires children to use all different types of muscles.

2. Develops and enhances memory Sensory activities are also a great way to enhance your child’s memory and development. Memory is enhanced through continuous practice and by interacting with different textures, smells and tastes. Your little one will reap the benefits from sensory play, building cognitive and motor memories.
   
   
3. Builds nerve connections in the brain Sensory play has a world of opportunities for your little one and impacts the development of their brain. It provides them with a chance to learn about the world through their difference senses – building pathways between the neurons.

Sensory play activities: benefits for children in their early years

• Homemade playdough – One of the most popular and tested sensory play activities with a number of benefits. Playdough is amazing for developing fine motor skills as children experiment with the playdough to squeeze, roll, twist and build objects with it. It is also very easy to make. All you need is flour, salt, warm and natural food colouring. You can make playdough in a variety of colours which can also help with sensory stimulation – allowing children to learn colours, numbers and letters.
• Finger painting – Finger painting is a great way for children to use their hands to get messy and creative. This is a very simple activity that can be conducted at home. All you need is a selection of different coloured paints, paper and a painting smock. We recommend carrying out this activity outside to minimise the mess. To make this a learning activity, you should encourage your child to think about mixing the paints to make new colours and use their fingers to paint animals, letters and numbers.
• Watering the garden – Being in an outdoor environment is a sensory activity in itself. However, getting your child to partake in activities including watering plants and flowers can help them understand the difference between dry and moist earth. They will also be able to stimulate their senses by touching and smelling different types of flowers.

Whether at home at a child care centre, it is important that your child makes experiences and partakes in sensory activities during their early years as the benefits are truly endless.

James Marellene

Hi I am James Marellene, a Child Care Educator living in Sydney.

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