Children play to learn more about the environment around them. It's natural for them to rely on their senses to understand anything unfamiliar. Hence, when you notice kids touching, looking, tasting, and shaking objects that make noise, they're actively engaged in sensory play. Parents today should understand and encourage sensory play's importance within the home as part of early childhood development. And one of the best ways to do this is to ensure that there's a suitable and safe environment for kids to play in.
When is sensory play most prevalent?
From infancy to the early toddler years, children grow at a rapid rate. During this time, it's normal for them to become curious and explore the world around them. According to therapists, apart from the five senses, there are two additional sensory systems, which are:
- Proprioception or body awareness
- Vestibular or sense of balance
In order to create the proper opportunity where kids can explore these senses requires the use of sensory play equipment, according to houseofplay.com. Focusing on sensory-based play and activities is a critical aspect of brain development. Also, kids who are actively engaged in sensory play tend to be more aware of the world around them.
Sensory play typically involves activities where kids play with toys and objects with different textures. For example, if you allow a child to play in a sandpit, touching the sand allows the child to process the sensory information and initiate a response. By consistent stimulation, a child develops more neural connections in the brain. Moving forward, the child is more prepared to accomplish complex tasks, demonstrate motor skills, and interact socially.
Who benefits the most from sensory play?
Every child needs sensory play as a natural part of development. Parents can build a dedicated room and fill it with sensory toys and equipment. But apart from sensory play being beneficial for children, it's especially useful in helping children suffering from sensory processing disorders or autism. Children with special needs are often more sensitive to certain stimuli such as sounds, while there are some that require more sensory stimuli to react.
Sensory play is a method used by occupational therapists to support the development of a child with special needs. By observing their reaction to various sensory inputs, both the therapist and the parent can create an environment where the child can explore specific activities they enjoy and feel safe doing.
Apart from the home environment, many schools today also incorporate sensory play in their early childhood programs. From indoor playrooms to outdoor equipment that encourages movement and exploration, young kids are allowed to experience the environment more fully.
In conclusion, if you have young kids, whether or not they have special sensory needs, you need to include sensory play as part of the child's daily activities. It doesn't need to be complicated, as long as you understand the basic principle and use your creativity to build a space in your home for sensory-focused play. Also, many indoor playground and nursery facilities already include sensory play, which is an excellent choice for working parents.
