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Sensory play

Sensory play

Simple sensory play ideas and recipes to engage and calm

Squish it, shake it, pour it, swirl it - sensory play is all about discovering the world through touch, sight, sound, smell, and movement. It can be so beneficial for all ages as a calming tool, and for aiding developmental milestones like fine motor skills and even social skills.

And it doesn't need to be complicated! We understand sensory play can be an intimidating concept; perhaps you're concerned about safety risks, or worried about the cleanup?

This list contains a wide range of simple sensory activities that cater to many comfort levels - from messy fun like oobleck and cloud dough to soothing water play and mindful sensory walks.

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All play ideas in Sensory play

Play dough poke
Play dough poke
A simple fine motor workout - just grab some play dough and things to poke into it!
2m
10m
2-ingredient fake snow recipe
2-ingredient fake snow recipe
Create soft, moldable snow with just two ingredients
3m
30m
  ·  make it
Cover me
Cover me
Let the kids cover you with blankets & cushions while you get a mini rest!
1m
10m
DIY projector
DIY projector
Turn a recycled cardboard tube into a mini projector for simple shadow shows, storytelling and STEM learning!
5m
20m
  ·  make it
Bouncing bubbles recipe
Bouncing bubbles recipe
Make extra strong bubbles you can catch and bounce from everyday kitchen ingredients
5m
20m
  ·  make it
What's on my bum?
What's on my bum?
A hilarious sensory guessing game that gets lots of giggles and builds body awareness.
1m
5m
Salt tray writing
Salt tray writing
A calming and tactile way to practice drawing, writing, or doodling - just add salt to a tray and create your own little zen garden for fingers to explore.
2m
10m
Magic milk experiment
Magic milk experiment
Create a magical swirling effect and learn STEM concepts with dish soap and milk
3m
10m
  ·  make it
Static balloon experiments
Static balloon experiments
Can you make your hair stand up, water bend, or stick a balloon to the wall? These classic experiments are a fun & simple way to play with science.
2m
10m
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Flower soup
Flower soup
Mix flowers, leaves, and water together to create your own imaginary "flower soup". A simple, nature-based sensory activity that sparks imagination and outdoor play.
2m
30m
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