Supporting Sensory Development Through Play: Fun Activities for Kids

As parents of nursery students and early learners, you’re likely always on the lookout for ways to support your child’s growth and development. One of the most critical areas of early childhood development is sensory development—the process through which children learn to interpret and respond to the world around them using their senses. Sensory play is not only fun but also foundational for cognitive, social, and emotional growth. 

Let’s explore how play can support sensory development, share engaging activities, and discuss the role of reading and storytelling in fostering a lifelong love of learning. 

Sensory development begins at birth and continues throughout early childhood. It involves the refinement of the five senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell—as well as the development of proprioception (awareness of body position) and vestibular senses (balance and spatial orientation). According to a study by Dunn (1997), sensory processing plays a crucial role in how children interact with their environment and learn new skills.

When children engage in sensory play, they’re not just exploring textures or sounds; they’re also developing neural pathways that support language, motor skills, and emotional regulation. For example, squishing playdough helps strengthen fine motor skills, while listening to a story enhances auditory processing and comprehension. 

Fun Sensory Activities for Kids 

Here are some hands-on, sensory-rich activities that you can easily incorporate into your child’s daily routine: 

1. Sensory Bins

Sensory bins are a fantastic way to engage multiple senses at once. Fill a shallow container with materials like rice, beans, sand, or water beads, and add small toys, scoops, or containers for exploration. 

Why it works: Sensory bins encourage tactile exploration, fine motor skills, and imaginative play. A study by Case-Smith et al. (2015) found that tactile play improves children’s ability to process sensory information and enhances their focus. 

2. Texture Walk

Create a texture walk by placing different materials (e.g., bubble wrap, carpet squares, foam mats) on the floor and letting your child walk barefoot over them. 

Why it works: This activity stimulates the sense of touch and helps children develop balance and body awareness. 

3. Sound Matching Game 

Fill small containers with different materials (e.g., rice, coins, beads) and seal them. Shake the containers and ask your child to match the sounds. 

Why it works: This game enhances auditory discrimination, a skill essential for language development. 

4. Scented Playdough

Make homemade playdough and add essential oils or extracts (e.g., lavender, peppermint) to engage the sense of smell. 

Why it works: Combining touch and smell creates a multi-sensory experience that can be calming and stimulating. 

The Role of Reading in Sensory Development 

Reading is another powerful tool for supporting sensory development. When children listen to stories, they’re not just hearing words, they’re also imagining sights, sounds, and feelings. Here’s how you can make reading a sensory-rich experience:

1. Interactive Reading Techniques

• Use Props: Bring stories to life by using props like puppets, stuffed animals, or costumes. 
• Incorporate Sounds: Add sound effects to match the story (e.g., clapping for thunder or whispering for a quiet scene). 
• Encourage Movement: Act out parts of the story to engage your child’s body and mind. 

2. Choose Sensory-Rich Books

Select books that describe sensory experiences in vivid detail. For example, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle introduces colours, textures, and even the concept of taste.

3. Ask Open-Ended Questions

Encourage your child to think critically by asking questions like, “How do you think the character feels?” or “What do you think happens next?” 

Storytelling: A Bridge to Sensory and Emotional Growth

Storytelling is a timeless tradition that goes beyond reading. It allows children to use their imagination, engage their senses, and connect emotionally with the narrative. Here’s how storytelling can support sensory development:

1. Oral Storytelling

Oral storytelling, without the use of books, encourages children to visualize the story in their minds. Use expressive gestures, facial expressions, and voice modulation to make the story come alive.

2. Personalized Stories

Create stories that include your child’s name, favourite activities, or familiar places. This personal connection makes the story more engaging and relatable.

3. Storytelling with Props

Use props like felt boards, puppets, or even household items to make storytelling interactive.

A study by Isbell et al. (2004) found that storytelling enhances language development, listening skills, and comprehension. It also fosters empathy and emotional intelligence by allowing children to experience different perspectives.

Tips for Parents: Making Learning Fun and Effective

Supporting sensory development through play and reading is one of the most rewarding ways to nurture your child’s growth. By incorporating sensory-rich activities, interactive reading techniques, and storytelling into your daily routine, you’re not only helping your child develop essential skills but also fostering a lifelong love of learning.

Remember, every child is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to sensory development. The key is to create a supportive, engaging environment where your child feels free to explore, imagine, and grow.

So, grab some playdough, pick up a book, and embark on this exciting journey with your little one. The world of sensory play and storytelling is waiting to be discovered!