In the vibrant world of early childhood education, there’s one type of activity that consistently brings both joy and powerful learning outcomes: sensory play. Whether it’s squishing colourful playdough, listening to the gentle sound of rain sticks, or digging fingers into a tray of soft sand, sensory activities capture young children’s attention and stimulate essential areas of brain development.
From birth to age five, children are in a critical window for sensory exploration. Their brains are rapidly growing, making connections at lightning speed. Sensory play supports this growth by allowing children to learn through touch, sound, sight, taste, and smell—engaging the whole body and mind in the process.
What Is Sensory Play, and Why Does It Matter?
Sensory play refers to any activity that engages one or more of the five senses. These experiences help children process the world around them, understand cause and effect, develop language, and regulate emotions. It might look like mess, but underneath the surface, it’s a science lab, an art studio, and a therapy session rolled into one.
Through sensory play, children:
- Build nerve connections in the brain
- Develop fine and gross motor skills
- Strengthen problem-solving abilities
- Enhance memory and focus
- Improve social interaction and collaboration
These foundational skills are not only essential for academic readiness but also for emotional resilience and real-world adaptability.
The Science Behind Sensory Learning
Early brain development relies heavily on sensory input. When a child touches a rough surface or listens to music, neurons in their brain fire and form new connections. Repeated exposure strengthens these neural pathways, forming the groundwork for future learning in areas like reading, math, coordination, and even empathy.
For example, feeling different textures supports the development of tactile discrimination—a crucial skill for handwriting later on. Listening to rhythmic sounds can enhance phonological awareness, a key pre-reading skill. Activities like pouring water or scooping rice also refine hand-eye coordination and spatial reasoning.
Practical Examples of Sensory Play in Early Years Settings
High-quality nurseries and preschools often incorporate sensory play throughout the day, both indoors and outdoors. Some common activities include:
- Water and sand tables for tactile and temperature exploration
- Musical instruments for auditory stimulation
- Nature walks to stimulate multiple senses through sight, sound, and smell
- Finger painting for artistic expression and touch feedback
- Aromatherapy or spice play to introduce safe, natural smells
- Texture trails with different surfaces to walk or crawl on
Such activities are far from random—they are carefully chosen by educators to match developmental goals while keeping play open-ended and child-led.
Emotional Benefits of Sensory Play
Beyond cognitive development, sensory play has remarkable emotional advantages. Many children find comfort in repetitive, sensory-rich activities. Kneading dough, squeezing sponges, or listening to calming sounds can act as self-regulation tools—helping children feel grounded and safe.
For children who may struggle with verbal expression, sensory materials offer an alternative form of communication. Teachers can learn a lot about a child’s mood or interests simply by observing how they engage with materials.
A Feature of Outstanding Early Learning Environments
Families seeking the top nursery in Surrey often prioritise centres that understand the value of sensory experiences. These nurseries invest in well-equipped sensory areas, outdoor nature zones, and trained educators who know how to scaffold sensory play into broader developmental goals. It’s not just about offering exciting toys—it’s about creating meaningful, multisensory learning journeys every day.
Similarly, the best preschool in Surrey will seamlessly weave sensory play into literacy, numeracy, and social development. For example, using textured letters in early phonics sessions or setting up sensory storytelling corners where children can touch props, smell story elements, and fully immerse themselves in the narrative.
How Parents Can Support Sensory Learning at Home
You don’t need a classroom to offer rich sensory experiences. Parents can integrate sensory play into daily routines with simple materials like:
- Pasta, rice, or oats in bins for scooping and sorting
- Nature collections (leaves, stones, flowers) for sorting or crafting
- Bath time with bubbles, sponges, and cups
- Homemade playdough or slime for kneading
- Singing and dancing to explore sound and movement
The key is to observe your child, follow their lead, and allow for open-ended exploration.
Conclusion: Sensory Play Is Foundational, Not Optional
Sensory play is more than just fun—it’s a vital part of early learning that supports every aspect of a child’s development. By engaging their senses, children make sense of their world, build essential skills, and experience the joy of discovery.
As parents and educators, embracing sensory-rich environments helps children become confident, curious learners with strong foundations for school and beyond. In the most nurturing early years settings, textures, sounds, and smiles aren’t just by-products of play—they are tools for growth.
