7 Sensory-Friendly Activities for Kids to Enjoy at Home

Are you seeking sensory-friendly activities for your child to enjoy at home? If so, you’re in the right place! Sensory play is a crucial part of a child’s development, especially for kids with sensory processing difficulties. It can help children to improve their motor skills, boost cognitive growth, enhance memory, and promote calmness. Here are seven fun and engaging sensory-friendly activities that your kids can enjoy at home.

1. DIY Sensory Bins

Sensory bins are an excellent tool for promoting tactile exploration. You can easily create one using items around the house. Fill a large container with materials like sand, rice, or beans and add small toys or objects for your child to find and explore.

Tip: Always supervise your child during this activity to avoid any choking hazards.

2. Homemade Play Dough

Making homemade play dough not only provides a great sensory experience but also allows kids to be creative. You can make it more exciting by adding different colors or essential oils for extra sensory stimulation.

Note: Ensure the ingredients used are non-toxic and safe for your child.

3. Water Play

Water play is another fantastic sensory activity that most kids love. Fill a basin with warm water and add some bath toys, cups, or sponges. This simple activity can keep your child engaged while stimulating their sense of touch.

Expert opinion: According to Dr. Jenny Radesky, a pediatrician specializing in child development, “Water play offers many opportunities for children to develop fine and gross motor skills through actions like pouring, squirting, scrubbing.”

4. Sensory Walks

Create a sensory walk using different textured materials like bubble wrap, sandpaper, fluffy rugs etc., laid out on the floor for your child to walk on barefooted. This activity engages their sense of touch in an exciting way.

5. DIY Musical Instruments

Musical instruments stimulate auditory senses and promote coordination skills. Use household items like pots, pans or plastic containers filled with dried beans or rice as shakers.

6. Edible Finger Paint

Finger painting is a wonderful tactile activity that also promotes creativity. Make it safe by creating edible finger paint using natural food coloring mixed into yogurt or pudding.

7. Sensory Swings

If you have space at home, consider installing a sensory swing – they provide excellent vestibular input which helps regulate the nervous system.
Remember: Safety first! Ensure the swing is installed securely before use.

In conclusion, these indoor sensory activities provide fun ways for kids to explore their senses while promoting learning and development at home. Remember that every child is unique – what works well for one might not work as well for another; therefore always tailor activities according to your child’s preferences and needs.

The key is to create safe environments where children feel free to explore their world in ways that make sense to them.

We hope these ideas inspire you to create engaging sensory-friendly activities at home!