Sensory play is not just fun for toddlers—it's a crucial part of their development. When children engage their senses, they build nerve connections in the brain that support cognitive growth, language development, fine and gross motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and social interaction.
Why Sensory Play Matters
Research shows that sensory play builds nerve connections in the brain's pathways, which lead to the child's ability to complete more complex learning tasks. Sensory play supports:
- Language development
- Cognitive growth
- Fine and gross motor skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Social interaction
Plus, sensory play is calming for many children and can be a great way to help them regulate their emotions.
10 Easy Sensory Activities for Toddlers
1. Rice Sensory Bin
Fill a large container with uncooked rice and add scoops, funnels, and small toys. Your toddler will love running their fingers through the rice, pouring it, and finding hidden treasures.
2. Water Play Table
Fill a shallow container with water and add measuring cups, funnels, and floating toys. Supervise closely and watch as your child explores concepts like full, empty, float, and sink.
3. Homemade Playdough
Make your own playdough with flour, salt, water, and food coloring. The squishing, rolling, and molding helps develop hand muscles and creativity.
4. Sensory Bottles
Fill clear plastic bottles with water and add glitter, food coloring, and small objects. Seal tightly and let your toddler shake and observe the contents.
5. Texture Walk
Create a "texture walk" by placing different materials (bubble wrap, aluminum foil, fabric scraps) on the floor for your child to walk across barefoot.
6. Finger Painting
Use washable, non-toxic finger paints on large paper for a classic sensory experience that also encourages artistic expression.
7. Nature Sensory Bin
Collect items from nature (pinecones, smooth stones, leaves) and place them in a bin for exploration. Talk about textures, colors, and shapes.
8. Scented Play
Add extracts like vanilla or lemon to playdough or sensory bins to introduce different scents. This adds another sensory dimension to play.
9. Musical Exploration
Create a basket of safe household items that make different sounds when shaken, tapped, or banged together.
10. Edible Sensory Play
For younger toddlers who still mouth objects, try edible sensory materials like yogurt finger painting or playing with cooked, cooled spaghetti.
Tips for Successful Sensory Play
- Prepare your space (a plastic tablecloth or shower curtain under messy activities makes cleanup easier)
- Have wipes or a wet towel ready
- Start small and simple
- Follow your child's lead
- Narrate what your child is experiencing to build vocabulary
- Always supervise sensory play, especially with small items
Remember, the goal isn't a Pinterest-perfect activity—it's giving your child the opportunity to explore, discover, and learn through their senses. The messier it gets, the more fun (and learning) they're probably having!
