{"id":68335,"date":"2025-08-19T14:03:56","date_gmt":"2025-08-19T22:03:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/?p=68335"},"modified":"2025-08-19T14:34:12","modified_gmt":"2025-08-19T22:34:12","slug":"sensory-play-ideas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/sensory-play-ideas\/68335","title":{"rendered":"15+ Sensory Play Ideas for Home or Classroom"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1279\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-fall-leaves.jpg\" alt=\"Children playing in a pile of leaves for this fun fall sensory game. \" class=\"wp-image-68463\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-fall-leaves.jpg 1279w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-fall-leaves-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-fall-leaves-1200x563.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-fall-leaves-768x360.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1279px) 100vw, 1279px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-3rem-padding aofl-waysToShare is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-6c531013 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-47a719f33439870cf61c9e1b4503e402\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-cac72e5565515bed76b2ed0d621b23ca\" 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c0.43,0.784,1.681,1.446,3.013,1.446c3.963,0,6.822-3.494,6.822-7.833C20.394,5.112,16.849,2,12.289,2\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Pinterest<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li style=\"color:#467ff7;background-color:#ffffff00;\" class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-mail  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/%20\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19,5H5c-1.1,0-2,.9-2,2v10c0,1.1.9,2,2,2h14c1.1,0,2-.9,2-2V7c0-1.1-.9-2-2-2zm.5,12c0,.3-.2.5-.5.5H5c-.3,0-.5-.2-.5-.5V9.8l7.5,5.6,7.5-5.6V17zm0-9.1L12,13.6,4.5,7.9V7c0-.3.2-.5.5-.5h14c.3,0,.5.2.5.5v.9z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Mail<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li style=\"color:#467ff7;background-color:#ffffff00;\" class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-etsy  wp-block-social-link\"><a 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class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-chain  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/%20\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M15.6,7.2H14v1.5h1.6c2,0,3.7,1.7,3.7,3.7s-1.7,3.7-3.7,3.7H14v1.5h1.6c2.8,0,5.2-2.3,5.2-5.2,0-2.9-2.3-5.2-5.2-5.2zM4.7,12.4c0-2,1.7-3.7,3.7-3.7H10V7.2H8.4c-2.9,0-5.2,2.3-5.2,5.2,0,2.9,2.3,5.2,5.2,5.2H10v-1.5H8.4c-2,0-3.7-1.7-3.7-3.7zm4.6.9h5.3v-1.5H9.3v1.5z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Link<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color\" style=\"color:#0515bd\"><strong>15+ Sensory Play Ideas for Home or Classroom<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color\" style=\"color:#767676;font-style:normal;font-weight:400\">Get ready for hands-on fun with 15 sensory play activities that support learning and development.<br><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-advice-table-ofcontents has-background\" style=\"border-radius:5px;background-color:#e9f5ff\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color has-background\" style=\"color:#01075f;background-color:#bdd7ff\">Table of Contents\u2013Jump to Each Section<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-38a701467dbd27dea4c788c7524e04ff\" style=\"color:#033eaa;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><a href=\"#sensory-bins\" title=\"\">Sensory Bin Ideas<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-01d326a30c680d6f3bd76d5fa70c373c\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><a href=\"#outdoor\" title=\"\">Outdoor Sensory Play Activities<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-97db4a6363b8aba1a165f9c7c3c83d55\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><a href=\"#art\" title=\"\"><strong>Sensory Play A<\/strong>rt Activities<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0f1e6c365caa59eecb3f1fd99167de9b\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><a href=\"#mess-free\" title=\"\">Quiet, Mess-Free <strong>Sensory<\/strong> Play Activities<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f743d96d976fcdcb22eef753a47ed031\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><a href=\"#tips\" title=\"\">Tips for Sensory Play<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-98ccf187e5c127174a43a0ac7068ad34\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><a href=\"#processing\" title=\"\">Sensory Play Tips for Children With Sensory Processing Differences<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:2px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);line-height:1.5\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/advice\/sensory-play\/68242\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Sensory play<\/a><\/strong> is any activity that engages a child\u2019s senses\u2014touch, sight, hearing, smell, taste, movement, and body awareness\u2014to boost learning and development. These hands-on experiences help children build important skills, including problem-solving, motor coordination, language, and emotional regulation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);line-height:1.5\">Discover <strong>15 easy and engaging sensory play ideas for kids<\/strong> that parents and teachers can use at home or in the classroom to promote creativity, curiosity, and growth. Pair them with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/cooperative-play-activities\/68154\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">cooperative play activities<\/a> to help kids build social skills while they&#8217;re at it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color\">Learn more about sensory play and other types of play, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/advice\/cooperative-play\/68060\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">cooperative play<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/advice\/the-6-stages-of-play\/66402\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">5 stages of play in early childhood<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-advice-subheading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"benefits\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\">Sensory Play Ideas for Children<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color\" style=\"border-color:#01075F;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading anchor-link-with-margin\" id=\"sensory-bins\"><strong>Sensory Bins<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">A sensory bin is just what it sounds like: a large bin with various items for kids to explore, especially through tactile play. It usually includes one or two major filler items, with smaller items mixed in and ways to interact. Here are a few ideas to try:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-water-bin-1200x563.jpg\" alt=\"A sensory water bin with small toys for children to play in. \" class=\"wp-image-68348\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-water-bin-1200x563.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-water-bin-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-water-bin-768x360.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-water-bin.jpg 1279w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c7de9f6e0d150f602f36f842fefc0800\"><strong>Ideas for a Water Table or Bin<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-780da70ce923b067fed263077cb601c7\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Water of varying temperature, items that float or sink, and toys for measuring, pouring, spraying etc. Try a bin of cool water with plastic ice cubes, toy penguins and seals, and measuring cups, or warm water with a few drops of blue food coloring along with toy fish and squirt toys or plastic water droppers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-playing-in-sand-with-truck-1200x800.jpg\" alt=\"A young boy playing in a box of sand with toy trucks and buckets. \" class=\"wp-image-68352\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-playing-in-sand-with-truck-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-playing-in-sand-with-truck-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-playing-in-sand-with-truck-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-playing-in-sand-with-truck-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-playing-in-sand-with-truck-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5d242fbdde96d8c439674679cd62dd67\"><strong>Ideas for a<\/strong> <strong><strong>Sandbox or Bin<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ac8f0f53904017ec5804052a79790837\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Play sand or kinetic sand, small toys and other items, and shovels, pails, spoons, or other digging tools. Add some water to change the texture and help kids mold the sand into shapes or towers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3e1d588b wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-fall-nature-bin-with-pinecones-and-pumpkins-1200x563.jpg\" alt=\"A fun fall sensory activities full of pinecones and pumpkins and beans.  \" class=\"wp-image-68362\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-fall-nature-bin-with-pinecones-and-pumpkins-1200x563.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-fall-nature-bin-with-pinecones-and-pumpkins-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-fall-nature-bin-with-pinecones-and-pumpkins-768x360.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-fall-nature-bin-with-pinecones-and-pumpkins.jpg 1279w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-00fbfa0a1dd264a38ec676d68fe26844\"><strong>Ideas for<\/strong> <strong>Nature Bin<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fd47bf7d64d22af789b334d06aba5960\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Fill the bin with soil and small rocks, twigs, leaves, berries, pine cones, and\/or acorns. Then bury toy animals and use hand-held shovels or rakes to search for them. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells-1200x563.jpg\" alt=\"Fun sensory activities. Kids playing in bins with dinosaurs and shells. \" class=\"wp-image-68363\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells-1200x563.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells-768x360.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells.jpg 1279w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d7f7190660d29d659a5b0a4c6532d2a0\"><strong>Ideas for an<\/strong> <strong><strong>Explorer Bin<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f2a8fb67fd8b9997df39139c49b22bd7\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Fill a bin with soil or sand and bury toy dinosaurs or dinosaur bones or other artifacts or treasures, like plastic gems and coins. Provide spoons and shovels to help your child dig for buried treasures and specimens. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);line-height:1.5\"><strong>TIP: <\/strong>There are endless options for sensory bins, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/alphabet-sensory-bin-activity\/10789\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">alphabet sensory bin<\/a>s, bins with trucks and diggers, figurines buries in &#8220;clouds&#8221; (cotton balls), and so much more.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color\" style=\"border-color:#01075F;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading anchor-link-with-margin\" id=\"outdoor\"><strong>Outdoor Sensory Activities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">The great outdoors is absolutely full of stimulation for the senses\u2014try to spend time outside with your child whenever you can. Dance in the rain and splash in puddles, put on some sunscreen and enjoy the warmth of the rays on your skin, crunch through the spicy-smelling fall leaves, or dig and play in the winter snow. Here are some other fun ways to explore the outdoors through sensory play:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"525\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Young-Kids-in-Nature-1200x525.png\" alt=\"Children going on a exploring hike in the forest. \" class=\"wp-image-36202\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Young-Kids-in-Nature-1200x525.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Young-Kids-in-Nature-300x131.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Young-Kids-in-Nature-768x336.png 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Young-Kids-in-Nature-1536x672.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Young-Kids-in-Nature.png 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a8519a00b0ca7b6ba2f40502768f2d23\"><strong>Nature Walk<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0f2d195bfe7b458ed2c4175b75498aff\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Head to your favorite wild place and take a stroll, stopping from time to time to identify what you can see, hear, smell, and feel. This is also a good chance for kids to balance along logs, hop over obstacles, and climb rocks or trees.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"928\" height=\"448\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/spring-activities-play-in-mud.jpg\" alt=\"A child playing in a muddy mess for a fun sensory activity. \" class=\"wp-image-49607\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/spring-activities-play-in-mud.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/spring-activities-play-in-mud-300x145.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/spring-activities-play-in-mud-768x371.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 928px) 100vw, 928px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c344786a73d04881a56c28434a890235\"><strong>Mud Pies<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fd18ab4d4fc93a639decec20e6617ff6\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Embrace the squish of cool mud! Whether you play in a local creek or mix up a bin of dirt and water at home, mud offers unusual tactile sensations. Some kids love it, some kids hate it, but experiencing it is important for brain growth and development.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3e1d588b wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1150\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-in-kiddie-pool-1200x1150.jpg\" alt=\"Two young girls in a kiddy pool playing together for summer fun sensory! \" class=\"wp-image-68429\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-in-kiddie-pool-1200x1150.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-in-kiddie-pool-300x288.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-in-kiddie-pool-768x736.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-in-kiddie-pool-1536x1472.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-in-kiddie-pool-2048x1963.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-13850a8b9f71ea2b4e571eb825cc0be8\"><strong>Kiddie Pool<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-be86a3ab7730a28685bfa1ad1e87975e\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">This beloved summertime activity is all about the senses! Feel the water, hear it splash, watch the drops make rainbows in the sun\u2014and that\u2019s before you even bring water toys or cups and pails into the mix. Add taste and smell into the mix by enjoying a popsicle as you loaf around in the water. (Always supervise children around water of any depth.)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"928\" height=\"448\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/child-bubbles-stem-kindergarten.jpg\" alt=\"A child playing with giant bubbles in a field in this fun Kindergarten STEM activity. \" class=\"wp-image-40322\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/child-bubbles-stem-kindergarten.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/child-bubbles-stem-kindergarten-300x145.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/child-bubbles-stem-kindergarten-768x371.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 928px) 100vw, 928px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3e0ed69de9b5bd13d969056895328074\"><strong>Bubbles<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ad0daa0eaee59801d7ac64cdf42d1aa8\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Looking for a calming sensory activity? Blow bubbles together; the deep inhales and measured exhales are a form of meditative breathing, and watching the bubbles float away is oh-so-relaxing. Want to make things more exciting? Turn on a bubble machine and some music, and dance around as you feel the bubbles breaking on your skin!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);line-height:1.5\"><strong>TIP: <\/strong>Find even more outdoor sensory activities with our article featuring <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/nature-activities-for-preschoolers\/36201\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">50+ Nature Activities for Preschoolers<\/a> and our list of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/25-spring-activities-for-kids\/49445#outdoor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">outdoor spring activities for kids<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color\" style=\"border-color:#01075F;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading anchor-link-with-margin\" id=\"art\"><strong>Sensory A<\/strong>rt Activities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">When it comes down to it, every artistic activity is about the senses. Kid-friendly arts and crafts projects let them experience colors, patterns, textures, scents, and more. Try out these simple art ideas that engage the senses:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/first-grade-math-activities-playdough.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-50194\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/first-grade-math-activities-playdough.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/first-grade-math-activities-playdough-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/first-grade-math-activities-playdough-768x384.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c3bb0f5f17df8720aef5bcc5a87b722f\"><strong>Scented Playdough<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-462257e57c44ca46c1d02147500fc8f4\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">You can buy scented dough, or make your own by adding a few drops of essential oils. (Just make sure your kids know that even though it smells good, they shouldn\u2019t eat it.)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-rainbow-collage-1200x563.jpg\" alt=\"A fun sensory rainbow craft activity for kids. \" class=\"wp-image-68419\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-rainbow-collage-1200x563.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-rainbow-collage-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-rainbow-collage-768x360.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-activities-rainbow-collage.jpg 1279w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-01342da7db1c8c91711d3488aeddb1d5\"><strong>Texture Collage<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9b7f0e4e03e12c7960ff37dcbe711fef\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Gather items of different textures and arrange them in a collage. Include things like sandpaper, faux fur, burlap, yarn, crumpled paper, and more. Hang your collage at child height so they can return to experience it again and again.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3e1d588b wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"998\" height=\"448\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/preschool-stem-fingerpaint.jpg\" alt=\"A child's hands covered in red paint as they are finger painting in this sensory activity. \" class=\"wp-image-37745\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/preschool-stem-fingerpaint.jpg 998w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/preschool-stem-fingerpaint-300x135.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/preschool-stem-fingerpaint-768x345.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 998px) 100vw, 998px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9490b103e08e6818d437c0cee723ec7f\"><strong>Finger Painting<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c56850731a7ff3bc7b2205a2bbd468c5\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Here\u2019s another classic childhood activity that\u2019s all about the senses. Encourage your child to consider how the paints feel on their skin, wet and dry. Smell them and listen to the sounds they make when you glop them onto the paper or spread them around.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-Activities-child-with-raspberries-on-fingers-play-with-food-1200x563.jpg\" alt=\"A young child with raspberries on her fingers eating them in a fun sensory activity. \" class=\"wp-image-68421\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-Activities-child-with-raspberries-on-fingers-play-with-food-1200x563.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-Activities-child-with-raspberries-on-fingers-play-with-food-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-Activities-child-with-raspberries-on-fingers-play-with-food-768x360.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Sensory-Activities-child-with-raspberries-on-fingers-play-with-food.jpg 1279w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-e76e7516f2bf6e250d667cc837c5d8c1\"><strong>Snack Art<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7939c1682f47b5f664463bd273e0bbd4\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">It\u2019s okay to play with your food sometimes! Sort fruit by color or shape or arrange crackers and cheese to form patterns. Fill a plate with as many colors as you can, and eat slowly to enjoy the textures, scents, and flavors.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);line-height:1.5\"><strong>TIP: <\/strong>Need another sensory art activity? Try ice painting! Freeze colored ice cubes and use them to paint on paper as they melt. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/summer-activities-for-kids\/58066\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Learn more about ice painting here<\/a>. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/alphabet-crafts-for-preschoolers\/63737\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Alphabet Crafts<\/a> also feature many sensory-focused activities.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color\" style=\"border-color:#01075F;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading anchor-link-with-margin\" id=\"mess-free\">Quiet, Mess-Free <strong>Sensory<\/strong> Play Activities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Yes, it IS possible to encourage sensory play without making a mess or a racket! These ideas give parents a break, and are easier on children with sensory processing differences too.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"2054\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-and-mom-smelling-scents-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"A mother holding a bottle of essential oil to the nose of her daughter for a sensory experience. \" class=\"wp-image-68436\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-and-mom-smelling-scents-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-and-mom-smelling-scents-300x241.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-and-mom-smelling-scents-1200x963.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-and-mom-smelling-scents-768x616.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-and-mom-smelling-scents-1536x1232.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-and-mom-smelling-scents-2048x1643.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c5b3d181d09615865968a649cb8c32e2\"><strong>Scent Bottles<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-b3751efd58054859120701b64896ff70\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Add a few drops of essential oils to cotton balls, then place them in empty shaker bottles. Kids remove the lids and smell what\u2019s inside, trying to identify the fragrance. You can also let them explore the various scents in your spice collection by sniffing the lids.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-sensory-bag-with-buttons-900x1200.jpg\" alt=\"A sensory bag of buttons and glitter for kids to play with.\" class=\"wp-image-68437\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-sensory-bag-with-buttons-900x1200.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-sensory-bag-with-buttons-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-sensory-bag-with-buttons-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-sensory-bag-with-buttons-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-sensory-bag-with-buttons-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-sensory-bag-with-buttons-scaled.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1f919f6786f158840afd4a5400916679\"><strong>Sealed Bag Squish<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-338e08e1461d50e426c184122de002d8\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Fill a plastic zipper bag half-full with slime, finger paints, water beads, buttons, or any other substance that can be squished or moved around through the plastic. Seal it and add a layer of clear packing tape around the edges for strength. Your child can squeeze and squish the bag, or lay it flat and trace shapes, letters, or numbers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3e1d588b wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1279\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-with-fabric-sensory-book.jpg\" alt=\"A child playing with fabric sensory book. \" class=\"wp-image-68439\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-with-fabric-sensory-book.jpg 1279w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-with-fabric-sensory-book-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-with-fabric-sensory-book-1200x563.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-with-fabric-sensory-book-768x360.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1279px) 100vw, 1279px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a487b17b6cb8b7d4dfacc065e754f6db\"><strong>Textured Book<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-08159638be9e093a94dfa4b12b70edbb\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Collect fabric in a variety of textures and sew them together to create a book. You can also buy books purposely made for sensory play, with crinkly pages, tabs to chew on, and fabrics to touch.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"968\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-tracing-shadows-of-toy-animals-1200x968.jpg\" alt=\"A child tracing the shadows of plastic animals in this sensory activity for kids. \" class=\"wp-image-68442\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-tracing-shadows-of-toy-animals-1200x968.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-tracing-shadows-of-toy-animals-300x242.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-tracing-shadows-of-toy-animals-768x620.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-tracing-shadows-of-toy-animals-1536x1239.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-child-tracing-shadows-of-toy-animals-2048x1652.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c1daa021ac62f730228021925e9c74c3\"><strong>Light Table<\/strong> <strong>or Shadow Tracing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-68675ee65ce67bd46b95698698278c66\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">A light table is simply a flat lighted surface (you can make your own by placing a string of lights under an overturned shallow plastic bin). Laying various items on top allows kids to play with color, shadow, and the way light interacts with opaque, translucent, and clear objects. You can also have kids set up toys a piece of paper and trace the shadows they create.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);line-height:1.5\"><strong>TIP: <\/strong>For even more sensory play and learning ideas, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/category-activities\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">check out our free activities articles here<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image u-m-hide\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/abc\/prospect-register\/?src_tag=wp:cta:0015\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"924\" height=\"501\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Mobile.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-89753\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Mobile.png 924w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Mobile-300x163.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Mobile-768x416.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 924px) 100vw, 924px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image u-d-hide aofl-mb-3rem-margin \">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/abc\/prospect-register\/?src_tag=wp:cta:0015\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"393\" height=\"560\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Desktop.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-89754\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Desktop.png 393w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Desktop-211x300.png 211w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 393px) 100vw, 393px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-advice-subheading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"tips\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\">Tips for Sensory Play<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-bottom:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3625b8c3f0e87993d5c8e4b9ddf994ad\" style=\"color:#01075f\">1. Start Simple<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-97c65ac4b8beb792159de7d38e9e99ab\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">You don\u2019t need to invest in a lot of specialized toys or items. Just provide a variety of items, objects, and experiences that allow your child to use their senses. Use sponges and washcloths during bathtime, and compare the difference. Note the different sounds you hear when you eat different foods. Stand in a busy place and identify the smells and sights around you. Let kids balance their way along curbs and help push the shopping cart. All of these are sensory play!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-bottom:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-16e593fbb54047a6539e97c0692dba3d\" style=\"color:#01075f\">2. <strong>Supervise and Guide<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-433c474c0b22ed22297f812c02a173a9\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">As adults, one important way we use our senses is to identify potential dangers and hazards around us\u2014a red surface is often hot, poison ivy will make us itch, sharp things cause pain, etc. Supervise gently as kids learn from sensory experiences, stepping in when safety is a concern\u2014but try not to direct their play too much. The best sensory play is unstructured and child-led.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-67408228188b71a4d4fd64601f7ce60e\" style=\"color:#01075f\">3. <strong>Create Safe Play Spaces<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-cecb1c31576609d9514210b02ad2baa6\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">One great way to give your child autonomy in sensory play is by creating a safe environment where they can try things with confidence. That\u2019s one reason sensory bins are so popular: the items included are those that are unlikely to cause harm. Add mats to playroom floors to protect against tumbles, do messy activities on washable surfaces, and teach your child common-sense safety rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fabb7222e0bb931b151559e41fb610ae\" style=\"color:#01075f\">4. Engage Multiple Senses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-00fa4707eb32dcd99ed4c4f04daf6574\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">If you\u2019re planning specific sensory activities, try to find ways to include multiple senses. For example, if you\u2019re playing with playdough, try adding essential oils for scent, mix-ins like sand or small pebbles for texture, and a variety of colors too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-264dd56bd935b95159f26f4f13c5165f\" style=\"color:#01075f\">5. Encourage Descriptive Language<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8f0772fe30b28f92e254fd51f2bbed2d\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">As you and your child play, use descriptive words and invite them to do so too. \u201cOoh, this feels slimy and cold, but I think I like it! What do you feel when you touch it?\u201d or \u201cThis sauce is salty, but it\u2019s also a little sweet. What do you taste?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f738abaed9c65df35089e455ce666fdf\" style=\"color:#01075f\">6. Include Movement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-435e991e713b86f8760ba9f763e56d48\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Sensory play should include opportunities for vestibular (balance, movement, and spatial orientation) and proprioceptive (the body&#8217;s sense of movement and position) development too. Jumping, spinning, hopping on one foot, and balancing on a small box are sensory play; so is learning to ride a bike or scooter, swimming, and playing catch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7bd295e199b6faf1e54df0c7cbe083f3\" style=\"color:#01075f\">7. Respect Sensitivities and Preferences<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a18b6ffd53a9edac5e841ff8a4a31271\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Some children are naturally more sensitive or may have sensory processing disorders. But all of us have certain sensory experiences we just don\u2019t like\u2014maybe you just can\u2019t stand touching slimy things, or the sound of chewing drives you nuts. Respect your child\u2019s preferences, and support exploration without pressure. Encouragement is good; forcing unfamiliar sensations can backfire, especially with sensory-sensitive kids.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-42d26522161a5f781700a8d10b7f81e2\" style=\"color:#01075f\">8. Rotate Materials Regularly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-715ba65b1bac4ca811b9611aa32c7920\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">We can become accustomed to sensory experiences very quickly\u2014think about how you\u2019re able to tune out the sound of the neighbor\u2019s lawn mower or don\u2019t even notice the beautiful flowers in a garden you pass through eight times a day. When you regularly offer new experiences and materials, your child will continue to experience the new stimuli that encourage proper brain development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c8615fa485f627271d4e4d951e5e8976\" style=\"color:#01075f\">9. Work Clean-Up Into the Routine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2210d482021cee2d4a1710ee352df5fe\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Sensory play can be messy! And while that\u2019s just fine, it also means there\u2019s clean-up to do afterwards. Make sure your child gets into the habit of helping out with the mess. Even very little kids are able to wipe things with a cloth or put playdough back into its containers. Keep kids involved in sensory play from start to finish for the most meaningful experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-69555d39fdd79279f781e62269f9a832\" style=\"color:#01075f\">10. Combine Sensory Play with Mindfulness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ac8e37c71a6e3813ce71978e32ee6314\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">When we feel overwhelmed, that\u2019s often because our senses are overloaded in one way or another. Sensory play can actually promote emotional regulation by helping us identify how we\u2019re feeling, and why we\u2019re feeling that way. Try the five senses meditation: Stop where you are and look for 5 things you can see, 4 distinct sounds, 3 things you can feel (like the breeze on your skin or the floor under your feet), 2 things you can smell, and 1 you can taste (even if it\u2019s just your own saliva).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-advice-subheading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"processing\" style=\"color:#033eaa;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);font-style:normal;font-weight:600\">Sensory Play Tips for Children With Sensory Processing Differences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f520a5e5f40c1d78d63fcd027b1515df\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">There are a variety of ways that people process sensory experiences differently. Some children may be easily overstimulated by noise, touch, or movement, while others may seek intense sensory input in ways that don\u2019t fit the setting, such as constant spinning or chewing on non-food items.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-eb84a05ea545d6e5d82a9d22e265d5c5\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">When it comes to sensory play for all types of children, the key is to be flexible and responsive. Remember, <strong>a child\u2019s sensory needs can change from day to day\u2014what\u2019s comfortable one time may feel overwhelming the next.<\/strong> These tips may help, but it&#8217;s also recommended to consult a professional in the field:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"3\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\" class=\"wp-block-list aofl-advice-list3 has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\">\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);line-height:1.5\"><strong>Go slowly at first.<\/strong> Limit the sensory play to one or two new experiences, introducing them gradually. For example, with new textures, let children touch them first with a stick or a gloved finger before using their bare hand.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"3\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\" class=\"wp-block-list aofl-advice-list3 has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\">\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);line-height:1.5\"><strong>Offer control and choice. <\/strong>\u201cWould you like to taste the spice, or do you just want to smell it for now?\u201d Respect their refusals, and demonstrate the behavior yourself instead. \u201cYou don\u2019t want to touch the worm? How about I touch it and tell you how it feels? It feels a little slimy, but also smooth, and it wriggles!\u201d If child declines something, remember that opting out isn\u2019t necessarily a setback\u2014it could be them learning to recognize and communicate their needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"3\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\" class=\"wp-block-list aofl-advice-list3 has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\">\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);line-height:1.5\"><strong>Note and limit challenging sensory experiences.<\/strong> Some kids have no trouble sticking their hands into a bucket of slime, but hate loud noises. Others love fireworks, but don\u2019t like to be touched. Ask your child to describe how various forms of sensory play make them feel, and don\u2019t force them into experiences that could cause them to feel overwhelmed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"3\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\" class=\"wp-block-list aofl-advice-list3 has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\">\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);line-height:1.5\"><strong>Explain what to expect. <\/strong>\u201cWe\u2019re going to use this new playdough. It has some sand mixed in, so it will feel a little rough, and it smells like cinnamon, just like your favorite cookies.\u201d This gives kids a chance to prepare and opt out if they need to.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul start=\"3\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\" class=\"wp-block-list aofl-advice-list3 has-border-color has-midnight-blue-border-color has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background\">\n<li style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);line-height:1.5\"><strong>Don\u2019t judge. <\/strong>No one can know exactly how a sensory experience affects someone else. If your child tells you the music is too loud or the colors are too bright, respect their feelings and thank them for sharing. If you can\u2019t alter the situation itself, ask your child what might make it easier for them. \u201cIt is pretty loud in here\u2014thanks for telling me that it makes your ears hurt. Do you want to put your hands over your ears until it\u2019s over?\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-dd225191 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<printables-email-registration style=\"width:fit-content;display:flex;margin:auto\" class=\"wp-block-abcmouse-printables-email-registration\"><\/printables-email-registration>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Explore fun sensory play ideas to spark creativity and support child development\u2014perfect for home or classroom activities.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":68463,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[79,14,13,81,131,177],"class_list":["post-68335","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-activities","tag-first-grade","tag-kindergarten","tag-preschool","tag-second-grade","tag-toddler","tag-types-of-play"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/68335","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=68335"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/68335\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":68632,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/68335\/revisions\/68632"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/68463"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=68335"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=68335"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=68335"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}