Getting the Feel for Sensory Play

Our five senses are the tools we use to explore the world. For toddlers, this exploration is vital to healthy development, and at IJP we make sure to provide many opportunities for children to interact with different textures and materials.  The wider the range of interaction, the more a child learns about his or her preferences as well as the properties of things, like the fact that ice is cold and tape is sticky. 

Ice exploration

Foam shapes on contact paper

 Art combines a sensory experience with a cause-and-effect result. As the child engages with different art mediums and becomes familiar with their properties, they are also learning what the materials can be used for. Paint leaves designs on paper and skin. Clay and playdough can be shaped and formed. 

 Water play is a wonderful, clean sensory experience. We depend on water for much of our daily lives. whether for practical use or enjoyment. We wash dishes, wash our hands, relax in the bath.

Foam!

Our expansive, natural playground affords a plethora of materials for the children to investigate. Wood chips, leaves and sand begin as interesting materials to explore int heir own right, and as play develops they can stand in for pretend food, money, or anything else a child can imagine.

 Sensory play is calming and can promote concentration.

 Food is definitely an important sensory experience! Exposing children to a variety of tastes and textures expands their palates and can encourage a positive outlook towards trying new foods.

Here's to more sensory experiences!