Innovative Sensory Play Ideas for Babies, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
Why is sensory play important for child development?
Sensory play is any activity that stimulates a child’s senses—touch, sight, sound, smell, taste, balance, and body awareness. As a pediatric occupational therapist, I often remind parents that sensory play is not just messy fun; it’s how children build their brains, regulate emotions, and prepare for school success.
The good news? You don’t need expensive toys. Here are creative sensory play activities for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers using items most families already have at home.
Sensory Play for Babies (0–12 months)
Q: What sensory activities are good for infants?
Texture Blanket Exploration – Place fabrics like silk, fleece, and corduroy on the floor for tummy time. Builds tactile awareness and body control. Babies also love tags, so we love soft toys with “taggies” on the edges.
DIY Water Bottle Shakers – Fill bottles with rice, pasta, or bells. Encourages grasping, sound awareness, and cause-and-effect learning.
Mirror & Light Play – Use a baby-safe mirror and flashlight. Supports visual development and social connection. Babies love to gaze at their own face in a mirror almost as much as they love looking at mommy and daddy’s face!
Sensory Play for Toddlers (1–3 years)
Q: How can toddlers do sensory play at home?
Kitchen Drum Band – Pots, pans, and wooden spoons become instruments. Develops rhythm, coordination, and energy release. This is a great way to keep children busy while you make dinner or clean up the kitchen.
Toy Car Wash – Soapy water, sponges, and towels. Strengthens fine motor skills, pretend play, and sensory regulation. Always supervise babies closely around water- even if it is only a few inches!
Bubble Wrap Walkway – Tape bubble wrap to the floor for walking or jumping. Builds gross motor skills and tactile feedback. Encourage babies and toddlers to crawl over it to make it pop! This is great for tactile sensation on larger parts of the body.
Sensory Play for Preschoolers (3–5 years)
Q: What are preschool sensory activities that build learning skills?
Indoor Obstacle Course – Use pillows and blankets for crawling and climbing. Improves balance, strength, and problem-solving.
Mystery Box Game – Hide various items inside of the box and encourage your child to guess hidden objects by touch. Enhances tactile discrimination, vocabulary, and critical thinking.
Scented Playdough Creations – Add cinnamon or citrus zest to homemade dough. Encourage your child to smell it while they play. Combines fine motor practice, imagination, and sensory integration.
Why Sensory Play Supports Education
Language growth – Describing textures and actions expands vocabulary.
Math & science readiness – Measuring, sorting, and experimenting teach early STEM skills.
Emotional regulation – Calming sensory input reduces stress and supports attention.
Social development – Shared sensory play builds cooperation and turn-taking.
Final Takeaway
Sensory play is not just fun; it’s foundational for early childhood development. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers learn best when their senses are engaged because it introduces new information to their brains through multiple pathways. With simple, everyday items, parents and educators can create powerful opportunities for growth right at home.