From the day they are born, children explore their senses, processing new information. As they grow, they become aware of the world around them through the senses such as touch, taste, smell, sight and hearing. Sensory play involves your child’s senses and it is a valuable way of enriching their learning.
At Little Steps Day Care we discuss the importance of sensory play for Early Years. We have a range of sensory activities for your child to engage in to enhance their development and stimulate their senses.
Supports Cognitive Development
Sensory play supports cognitive development by enhancing their thought process, understanding and reasoning. As children explore new materials, they begin to understand new thoughts and this helps to develop their brain.
New and frequent sensory experiences can create connections and improve a child’s ability to carry out more complex learning activities.
Problem Solving Skills
When children experiment with different objects during sensory play, they begin to develop problem-solving and decision-making skills. They will develop solutions to obstacles they come across during this play, some examples are:
- How to make sand stick together
- Building a boat that floats
- Matching shapes & sizes
- Sorting objects into groups
Sensory encourages scientific thinking, enabling children to make predictions and observations.
Social & Emotional Development
Specific sensory play activities such as sensory tables allow children to be in control of their experiences, boosting confidence in decision making and inspiring them to learn.
Furthermore, this can also teach children to co-operate and collaborate. As children work and play together, they begin to understand the other’s viewpoint and build relationships. They also have the opportunity to express themselves and be confident in sharing emotions and ideas with others.
Contact Us
For more information about the importance of sensory play for Early Years, get in touch with Little Steps Day Care. We are always available to offer expert advice. Call us in Renhold, Bedford on 01234 889518 or 07340 956 133.
Alternatively, you can fill in our online contact form to make an enquiry.
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