Sensory play includes activities that stimulate children’s senses such as sight, sound, smell, taste or touch. By providing this type of activity children will learn more about the world around them in a natural way, through their senses. Such activities contribute to brain development by stimulating the neurons in the brain to make connections, and help with development in all areas of learning. Sensory play is important in helping children make sense of the world around them through experiencing texture, materials and resources. It encourages discovery and independent thinking, whilst inspiring imagination and creativity. Sensory experiences can be calming and therapeutic for young children and help them work through their emotions, anxieties and frustrations. They can release pent up energy and allow children mastery over new skillsets.
Tactile System – sense of touch
Auditory System – sense of hearing
Visual System – sense of sight
Olfactory System – sense of smell
Gustatory System – sense of taste
Vestibular System – sense of balance and motion
Proprioception – sense of body in space