13 sensory play ideas for preschoolers

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I am a big fan of sensory play, and have featured lots of sensory play ideas here at Gift of Curiosity. I believe strongly that sensory play supports the development of critical skills in early childhood. I have come to this belief not just from my perspective as someone with an advanced degree in child development, but also from my perspective as a mom. Anytime I see my kids staying engaged for an hour or more in one activity, I know that activity is meeting an important developmental need.

As a parent, I am always on the lookout for new sensory materials to try or new ideas for using old materials we’ve already experienced. This week I’m bringing you great sensory play ideas for preschoolers from some fantastic kid bloggers. I hope you find some inspiration among the ideas shared below!

Note: You can find this and other sensory play activities on my sensory play page.

Several bloggers shared sensory bins that would make fantastic sensory play experiences for the preschoolers in your life. . .

Yellow yarn sensory bin from Fantastic Fun and Learning

Car themed sensory bin from Buggy and Buddy

Construction sensory play from P is for Preschooler

Calming bedtime sensory play from Where Imagination Grows

Chocolate scented foam dough from Tuts and Tea Parties {Updated: broken link removed}

Gluten free cloud dough from Wildflower Ramblings

Edible “dirt” from Teach Me Mommy

Other bloggers turned art into a sensory experience. . .

Bubble wrap stomp painting from Mess for Less

Sensory art with sticky paper from FSPDT at Sow Sprout Play

Some bloggers shared ideas for incorporating academics into sensory play time. . .

Ideas for learning with shaving cream from Lemon Lime Adventures

Alphabet sensory hunt (broken link removed) from Mess for Less

Bloggers also shared play dough mats to bring a new dimension to children’s play dough play. . .

Shape play dough mats from 3Dinosaurs

Play dough mats from Tutus and Tea Parties {Updated: broken link removed}