The magic of sensory play!
Today in class, we had an exciting sensory play experience using shaving cream and scented foam soap! Sensory activities like this provide rich opportunities for children to explore, create, and learn through touch, sight, and smell.
The foam soap came in different colors based on its scent, allowing the children to not only engage their sense of touch and smell but also observe color mixing in action. As they swirled the foam together, they discovered how colors blend to create new shades, adding an element of science and creativity to their play.
Beyond the fun, this activity also supported important developmental skills. Sensory play helps strengthen fine motor muscles, improve hand-eye coordination, and encourage language development as children describe what they see and feel. It also fosters problem-solving skills and social interactions as they share materials and ideas with their classmates.
Research shows that exposure to sensory-rich environments positively influences cognitive development, regardless of a child’s neurotype. Engaging in activities that stimulate multiple senses helps build neural connections in the brain, supporting learning, memory, and overall development. Whether a child is neurotypical or neurodivergent, sensory play provides valuable experiences that enhance their ability to process and understand the world around them.
In childhood development, sensory play promotes inclusive, open-ended play that cultivates vital skills. It encourages self-regulation, sparks curiosity and exploration, enhances problem-solving abilities, and nurtures creativity. By engaging with different textures, scents, and colors, children learn to adapt to new experiences, express themselves, and develop confidence in their abilities.
The best part? Sensory play is easy to recreate at home! If you’d like to try it, simply use shaving cream or a gentle foam soap in different colors and scents. Let your child explore freely, and don’t be afraid to get a little messy after all, some of the best learning happens through play!
-Teacher Rachel
