Blog-land has been abuzz about sensory play and sensory boxes for some time. It’s great for fine motor development as well developing the imagination in toddlers and preschoolers alike. Both of my little ones love it. Here are some basic ways to incorporate sensory experiences into your kiddos day with…
5 Ingredients for Sensory Preschool Play
- SAND – My son has had an indoor sandbox since he was around 2 years old. I just took an under-bed storage bin and filled it with Moon Sand
(but any sand would do) and construction vehicles. He plays with it nearly everyday. My mom thought I was crazy for having sand in the house, but he has never really made too much of a mess. At least not one that the vacuum can’t easily take care of. - RICE – Any little toy becomes more fun when it’s thrown in a box with dried rice. One of my kids’ favorite rice sensory boxes was with little plastic insects and tweezers to pick them out. You can even dye the rice different colors to add to the fun.
- PLAY DOUGH – There are so many recipes for play dough out there. But honestly, I’ve never made a one. Play-Doh seems to be the go-to gift around these parts, so we’ve never run out of the store-bought brand. And Priscilla plays with it every day. Add some beads, sequins, and pipe cleaners to up the creativity even more.
- BUBBLES – I swear; bubbles can entertain my kids for hours. And this time of year there are so many inexpensive bubble kids and tools in the store. Or you can try these new touchable bubbles!
- WATER – Even if you can’t get outside to play with the hose, you can have fun water play. I throw down an old tablecloth and a couple towels below a bin of soapy water for Priscilla to “do dishes.” She brings out her play dishes and has fun pouring water from one to another.
(but any sand would do) and construction vehicles. He plays with it nearly everyday. My mom thought I was crazy for having sand in the house, but he has never really made too much of a mess. At least not one that the vacuum can’t easily take care of. 
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So don’t stress about sensory play; just see what you have around the house and go for it! Trust me, it’s not nearly as complex or messy as you think. And what mess there is, is totally worth the fun and learning!
(I rarely buy anything that isn’t thrifted, second-hand, or on sale. But you can learn more about some of the products we used in this post through the Amazon slide show above. And because it’s an affiliate link, if you purchase, I will receive a tiny percentage. Which will most likely go toward more thrifted, second-hand, or sale learning fun! THANKS!)
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Krissy @ B.Inspired says
Don't get me wrong, it does get messy and we don't do this all the time, but when we do, I think the kids benefit SO much. It really entertains them for hours!
Art For Little Hands says
I am so glad you shared all these idea. I see sensory things all over in the blogging world,but have never really done it myself. I think I will try it soon. Thanks for sharing.
Penelope says
We've been playing with bubbles…the rice sounds interesting!