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Preschoolers are at a magical stage in their development, where they’re constantly absorbing the world around them. Engaging their senses through activities not only stimulates their cognitive and physical growth but also fosters creativity and emotional well-being. Being outside on its own is a great sensory adventure but if you’re looking for more purposeful ideas, here are some sensory activities perfect for your adventurous preschooler.
1. Sensory Bins
Create themed sensory bins using materials like rice, dried beans, sand, or water. Add in scoops, containers, and small toys for endless exploration. Themes could range from a beach scene with shells and mini sea creatures to a construction site with toy trucks and kinetic sand. You can make sensory bins as simple or as complicated as you’d like which is why they are such a great option. There are endless ideas for activities that foster sensory growth in different areas.
Take a look at some of our favorite preschool sensory bin ideas here:
Learn About and Purchase Premade Sensory Bins for Kids
100 Amazing Sensory Bin Ideas for Kids
2. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Take your preschooler on a nature scavenger hunt in your backyard or a nearby park. Encourage them to find different textures like smooth rocks, rough bark, or soft leaves. This activity not only engages touch but also encourages observation and curiosity about the natural world. You could let your child free to explore on their own or make a list of things for them to find and make it into a game (including pictures is helpful!). This is a great option because you can stick to exploring the backyard or you could head to a park for a whole different adventure. Your little one will love this one and will want to do it again and again, squealing with glee at all of the treasures they find.
3. Messy Play
Messy play is a favorite among preschoolers! Let’s be honest, we don’t have to set up anything in particular for them to get messy, that’s what they do on the daily! But to be more purposeful and educational about it, set up a messy play station with non-toxic materials like finger paints, shaving cream, or slime. If you’d like less mess to clean up later, set up a station outside. Let them explore textures and colors while developing fine motor skills and creativity. This will keep your little one occupied for a while if they’re anything like mine!
4. Sensory Art
Combine sensory exploration with art by using materials like textured papers, foam shapes, fabric scraps, and natural objects like leaves or feathers. Let them create collages or sculptures, engaging their sense of touch and visual creativity. Your kiddo will love channeling their inner artist and you’ll love having a precious keepsake to hang on the fridge and keep for years to come.
5. Sensory Walk
Create a sensory walk in your backyard or indoors using different textures like grass, sand, bubble wrap, and fabric squares. Blindfold your preschooler and guide them along the path, encouraging them to feel and describe each texture they encounter. This is an amazing educational opportunity for older toddlers and preschoolers! It’s fun, exciting, and silly – something all kids love!
6. Scented Playdough
Make scented playdough using essential oils or natural extracts like vanilla or lavender. Incorporate different colors and scents to create a multi-sensory experience. If you don’t have the time to make homemade playdough, feel free to buy non-toxic scented playdough instead. Keep it simple or buy some accessories to go along with it – there are so many out there! Add in tools like cookie cutters and rolling pins for extra fun. There isn’t a kid out there who doesn’t love playdough.
7. Music and Movement
Engage their auditory and kinesthetic senses with music and movement activities. Have a dance party with their favorite songs, play musical instruments, or create a DIY sensory sound wall with pots, pans, and utensils for them to explore different sounds. Have a kitchen boogie or take the fun outside and dance the day away with your kiddo. This could be a great option for inside or outside play – so you and your little can have fun rain or shine!
8. Sensory Storytime
Combine storytelling with sensory elements by using props, sensory bins, or tactile books. Choose stories with descriptive language and opportunities for interaction, like acting out scenes or feeling textures related to the story. Make it interactive and fun, try reading a book that is about the outdoors for an extra educational opportunity.
9. Water Play
Water play is always a hit! Set up a water table with cups, funnels, and water-safe toys. Add bubbles, food coloring, or bath toys for extra excitement. Try a splash pad, sprinkler, or a little pool to add even more variety and sensory opportunities. Water play not only engages touch but also teaches concepts like volume and buoyancy. It’s also a great way to cool down on a hot summery day. Make sure you lather on some sunscreen and practice water safety!
10. Sensory Gardens
Create a mini sensory garden with pots of different plants like herbs, flowers, and succulents. Or, even create a garden in your backyard! Let your preschooler touch and smell the plants, encouraging them to describe the textures and scents. Let your kiddo dig in the dirt and plant flowers or herbs so they can watch them grow and learn about patience and the growth process. Teach them about farms and where herbs, fruits, and vegetables come from. For an even more fun element, you can also add wind chimes or tactile garden decorations for added sensory stimulation.
These sensory activities for preschoolers not only provide hours of fun but also support their cognitive, emotional, and physical development. Make these activities educational whenever you have the opportunity. Young kids learn best through play and fun! Remember to supervise closely, choose age-appropriate materials, and join in the fun to enhance bonding and learning experiences.
What are your favorite sensory activities to do with your toddler or preschooler?
XOXO,
Katie
