Sensory Play: Why It Matters and Simple Ideas for Every Age

Sensory play is any activity that engages one or more of the senses: touch, sight, sound, smell, taste, and movement. It does not need to be Pinterest-worthy or complicated. A bowl of water, a tray of rice, or a bag of sand all count.

Why sensory play matters

When babies and toddlers explore with their senses, they are building neural pathways. Each new texture, sound, and sensation creates or strengthens connections in the developing brain. This supports cognitive development, language acquisition, fine and gross motor skills, and even emotional regulation.

Children who engage in regular sensory play often develop the ability to tolerate a wider range of textures and experiences, which is associated with better outcomes for children with sensory sensitivities.

0 to 6 months

At this stage, sensory play is largely passive. Black and white high-contrast cards stimulate the developing visual system. Soft fabrics with different textures, gentle music, and being held by different people in different positions all count as sensory experiences.

6 to 12 months

Mouthing is how babies explore the world at this stage, so sensory play needs to be safe to mouth. Chilled teething toys, soft textured books, water play in the bath, and exploring different safe surfaces (grass, carpet, wooden floor) are all wonderful.

12 to 18 months

Walking toddlers can engage with outdoor sensory experiences: grass, gravel, puddles, sand, soil. Messy play with safe-to-eat substances like mashed potato, yoghurt, or cooked pasta is appropriate.

18 months to 3 years

This is the golden age of sensory play. Ideas that work brilliantly:

• check_circleKinetic sand (moulds, crumbles, and has an endlessly satisfying texture)
• check_circleWater play with cups, funnels, and small toys
• check_circlePlaydough (see the recipe below)
• check_circleA tray of dried lentils or pasta with spoons and cups
• check_circleCloud dough (8 parts flour, 1 part oil)
• check_circleShaving foam on a tray
• check_circleCornflour and water (oobleck) — solid when pressed, liquid when released

Simple homemade playdough

Mix 2 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 2 tablespoons oil, and 1 cup boiling water with a few drops of food colouring. Knead until smooth. Keeps for a week in an airtight container.

A note on sensory aversion

Some children strongly dislike certain textures or sensory experiences. This is common and usually resolves with gentle, repeated exposure at a pace the child is comfortable with. If aversion is extreme or affects daily life significantly, a paediatric occupational therapist can help.