What is Sensory Play with Children

Sensory processing is an important part of your child’s development because it helps her learn how to process and understand the world around her and how her body relates to her environment. Sensory play can also be very FUN! But, let’s take a minute to go over a few ground rules for sensory play:

  • We all have sensory preferences and sensitivities! I’m particularly sensitive to sounds and get easily overstimulated with loud noises! It’s important to know your baby has his/her own sensitivities, too. So, be on the lookout for those should they arise during any particular activity!
  • Follow your baby’s cues when it comes to sensory activities. If your baby seems averse to a certain texture, smell, taste, sound, etc it is important NOT to force them to participate as it can make aversions worse. You can slowly reintroduce the aversive activity as your baby tolerates. 
  • When your baby shows signs of being done with an activity, respect that and be all done. You can always revisit it again later. This will ensure your baby doesn’t get too overstimulated!
  • Introduce a variety of activities during sensory play time and make sure you hit all of the systems! You want your child to be well rounded in the sensory department!
  • HAVE FUN and BE CREATIVE with sensory play! Don’t be afraid to get a little messy! The more relaxed you are, the more fun your baby will have!

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