Sensory Play in Preschool
Sensory play is more than just a fun activity for the little ones - it's the foundation for learning, development, and exploration in early childhood. From the moment a baby is born, they begin to experience the world through their senses: sight, touch, sound, taste, and smell. As children grow, sensory experiences continue to shape how they understand their environment, build connections, and develop critical skills.
Sensory play includes any activity that stimulates one or more of a child's senses. It encourages children to investigate, experiment, and create using their natural curiosity. This type of play also supports language development, fine and gross motor skills, problem solving, and emotional regulation.
Some examples of sensory play are:
- Playing with water or sand
- Finger painting
- Exploring textures (fabric, playdough, foam, grass)
- Listening to music or nature sounds
- Smelling scented materials
- Tasting safe foods with different flavors and textures