Tips For Starting Sensory Play

You truly don’t need much to get started with sensory play. There are so many opportunities for sensory play that are free and accessible to everyone - water, dirt, sand, leaves, rocks, and more. Guided/structured sensory play at a "play table" can be an amazing routine to incorporate into your home. Check out this blog for the benefits of sensory play! To get started with sensory play exploring fillers and dough, all you truly need to get started is:

A container - any bin, bowl, tray, or mat will work!
A material to explore - fillers or playdough 

The most common question from adults regarding sensory play is, "what do you do with it?" and the answer truly is - you play. I know it may seem strange at first, but once you run your hands through a beautiful scoopable filler or create a work of art with a chunky filler - you'll understand the appeal! The beauty of open-ended sensory play is that there is no right or wrong way to do it. 

A Few Tips For Beginners

1. Establish a sensory play routine

Find the time that works best for YOU! This will look different for each family. Try to tack it on to a part of your day where it will stick! A morning invitation might work best for toddlers if you’re able to prep it the night before. Or take advanage of nap time and set up something for when they wake. For more independent kids, try an after-school/dinner prep time invitation. Keep the play space close to you while you tend to other things so you can still feel connected and oberve their play. Before bed can be a great time for some simple sensory play. Whatever you find works for your family is best, and will probably change as your kiddos grow!

2. Be firm with boundaries to set clear expectations

Many adults are afraid of the "mess" of sensory play. Just like with any other activity kids become involved in - yes, there will be something to get out and clean up. So, wouldn't you rather be cleaning up something that has benefitted your entire family?! When you introduce sensory play, your kiddos will need to learn what is and isn't acceptable for the materials - a favorite saying amongst play moms is "the play stays in the tray." And just like with any rule -  your children will test it! You can put down a big sheet or shower curtain under your sensory table to catch any fallen material and involve your children in cleaning up the "mess." 

3. Let them play their way

The benefits of sensory play include freedom and self-expression for our littles! This means their play may look different than you think it should. Try to leave the "shoulds" out of it and embrace the way your children play. 

Back to blog

Leave a comment