From birth, children explore their senses and process new information. As they grow up, they become more aware of their surroundings through the senses: touch, taste, smell, sight and hearing. Sensory play involves those senses, and it is a valuable way to enrich their learning.
This month’s blog at First Steps Grimsby Ltd looks at sensory play for Early Years. For more details, call us in Grimsby on 01472 352 524.
Supporting Cognitive Development
Sensory play is essential in supporting cognitive development. It enhances their thought process, understanding and reasoning. As children explore new materials, they start to understand new thoughts. This helps develop their brain.
New and frequent sensory experiences can create connections, improving a child’s ability to carry out more complex learning tasks.
Develops Problem Solving
When children experiment with different objects during sensory play, they start to develop problem solving and decision-making skills. Your child will develop solutions to challenges they face during play.
Sensory play encourages scientific thinking. It enables children to make predictions and observations.
Social & Emotional Development
Certain sensory play activities allow children to be in control of their experiences. This can help boost confidence in decision making and inspire them to learn more.
In addition to this, it can also teach children to co-operate and work together. As children work and play together, they will start to understand each other and build a relationship. This also encourages them to express themselves and be confident in sharing with others.
What Does Sensory Play Look Like?
Sensory play occurs every day at nursery. It is achieved through activities such as baking, messy play, crafts and outside play. However, there are many different activities that can be done by parents at home, including:
- Sand/Water Play
- Jelly
- Using dried pasta to make pictures
- Making Playdough
- Painting Through Plastic
Sensory play can be done using a wide range of everyday items!
Contact First Steps Grimsby Ltd
For information about the importance of sensory play, contact First Steps Grimsby Ltd. We have a range of sensory play suggestions for your child to engage in. Call us today on 01472 352 524. Alternatively, you can send us a message via our contact form.
Visit our Facebook page for the latest news.
