For children aged 0-5 years, engaging in sensory play can enhance cognitive, language, motor, and social skills. However, many adults may feel unsure about how to effectively incorporate sensory activities for children into their daily routines.
Many children will have sensory experiences whilst in an early years setting. But how do we as early years educators support families in fostering sensory play in the home environment? How do we start the conversations about the benefits of sensory play and the enjoyment children get from it?
Educators can adopt several key strategies to depart their knowledge and get adults on board.
Start with conducting your own research. Investigate what is current and proven to benefit children. Share studies that highlight the cognitive, emotional, and physical benefits of sensory play. Explain how it promotes exploration, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
This lets adults know there are real scientific studies that back up your knowledge, rather than ‘just your opinion’.
Here is a link to a recent study by Alessia Franco and David Robson (How mud boosts your immune system):
This emphasises the developmental benefits of muddy play. It explains how it enhances fine and gross motor skills, encourages social interaction, and supports language development as children describe their experiences.
The article also highlights the potential emotional wellbeing benefits of sensory activities, like reducing anxiety and stress, and allowing children to express their emotions and build resilience.
Illustrate how muddy play aligns with the early years foundation stage and educational milestones, making it a valuable part of the curriculum.
You could also invite adults in to participate in sensory play sessions with their children, or organise family events. By giving them opportunities to experience sensory play first hand, you can help them understand the benefits.
Sharing experiences and providing specific examples of sensory activities, such as making mud pies, creating mud art or making your own natural paint, can help to illustrate how fun and educational this type of play can be.
Be prepared to address any concerns. Be approachable so adults feel able to discuss any worries they may have about cleanliness or safety. Offer tips on how to manage these aspects while still allowing children to enjoy the benefits of these activities.
Be culturally sensitive and respectful of adult’s views. In certain cultures, there may be expectations regarding cleanliness and children’s behaviour or what activities are deemed appropriate. Families might refrain from allowing sensory or messy play if it doesn't align with these social norms.
Adults may fear that allowing children to engage in messy sensory activities could lead to unsanitary conditions or create extra work for them.
Some cultures prioritise structured learning and formal education over play, viewing it as less beneficial for a child's development. Sensory play, which is often unstructured, might be seen as frivolous or unnecessary.
Adults who did not engage in sensory play during their own childhood may be less likely to understand its benefits and therefore may not encourage their children to participate in such activities. These factors can create a complex landscape of attitudes towards sensory play that varies significantly.
Encourage adults to create opportunities for sensory play at home, offering suggestions for safe and accessible ways to manage play and enhance children’s curiosity.
This article has a companion piece aimed at families, which contains ideas and examples of sensory play. You can find it