We believe that children are intuitive and skillful people who are actively engaging in their own research. And sensory play is exactly that – research! During sensory play children are pioneers in their own learning.Sensory play is a range of learning experiences that support and stimulate children’s senses – touch, smell, taste, sight and hearing. Supporting them to explore and become involved in sensory learning experiences will help develop critical thinking – how and why things are the way they are.
Spatial awareness, size, shape, hard, soft, rough, smooth, loud and quiet are all concepts that are lay the foundation for further learning and development. Our Educators initiate various learning experience to extend on children’s sensory development. Shaving foam, collage, water, sound trees, ball pits, light trays are some of the resources on offer for children to experience in their own way, and to unpack their theories about the world around them.
What materials can be used in sensory play?
- Shaving foam for soft smooth textures
- Water play for motor development and mathematics and scientific skills
- Collage – creativity, colour recognition, expressing thoughts and feelings
- Sound station – beat, rhythm, movement, coordination
It may get a little messy at times, but the learning that comes from these experiences are invaluable!
“The senses, being explorers of the world, open the way to knowledge. Our apparatus for educating the senses offers the child a key to guide his explorations of the world.”
~ Maria Montessori ~
