At home activities to do with your sensory child or any bored child:

Before we begin some of you must be wondering- Hey, what does sensory even mean?

Is there even something called a sensory child?

Aren’t all children sensory?

Well here goes: A child seeking or withdrawing from sensory input is called a sensory child. That means that the child is sensitive to a change in sights, sounds, textures, tastes or smells. They may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to deal with it. Some sensory children may seek sensory input- look for new sights, sounds, textures, tastes or smells and others will try to keep away from them.

To help both of these children it is always good to work slowly with them by introducing new materials, smells and textures.However each child needs to be introduced differently depending on their need.

Even though many children are not a sensory child, in a sense that they do not get overwhelmed by new textures and smells  they enjoy playing with sensory items. It keeps their hands and minds busy with a new experience.

The activities mentioned below are great for a child that likes to keep their hands busy and great for the mom or teacher who is hoping to get some work done while having the child safely occupied. For a sensory child you should introduce the new materials slowly, never force them to get dirty or wet and let the child initiate when ready.

5 Great Activities for the sensory child or just about any child:

sensory bin

– This bin should be interchangeable and change according to needs. I like to have this at home and when I see a child getting upset or frustrated I direct the child to the bin.

What I keep inside the bin varies. I like the bin to be deep enough so that they can sink their hands into it and feel the thrill of the various textures rubbing against their hands. I also keep a box of toys to add at times to the bin to keep it exciting and entertaining.

Examples: sand, leaves, water beads, rice, popcorn kernels

2. play dough

– I enjoy making homemade play dough with the children, and then having them play with it. Along with play dough there are many great recipes for slime and putty.

as an added extra I at times add some smell ( fragrance, oils) or texture ( beans, seeds) to it

3. balloons

filled with various items- every child goes for a different texture if you have a variety of them it keeps them busy. I like to fill up balloons with flour, water, beans, pompoms and rice to give children the opportunity to try the various textures. I also have cards with pictures of the times inside the balloons so that the  children can match them.

4. water table

– although it is messy play, it is easy to clean up. Children of all ages love it. Water toys helps keep them busy. I usually add items found in many kitchens, such as measuring cups and spoons, funnels,and medicine dispensers.

5. finger paint

– although it is messy it is great, make sure to wear a smock and lay out a plastic tablecloth underneath. Children get to experiment with colors and can get their hands nice and dirty. They get to use their creative expression while having some sensory stimulation.

These are just some great ways to keep children busy while allowing them to feel some sensory input. Sensory activities are great calming techniques for any child and help a child visibly relax. When children have some pent up energy, anger or frustration this is a great way to allow them to release it.

Sensory activities make great wholesome entertainment.