Sensory exploration, whether it be a quick and easy home activity or a planned childcare program is important to the growth and development of infant, toddler and preschool minds. It creates nerve connections within the developing brain's neural pathways that stimulates the child's inclination for and ability to engage in more complex learning opportunities. Sensory exploration assists in developing and enhancing memory performance, and supports expressive language and social skills, cognitive and fine motor skills, cause and effect exploration as well as problem solving skills. Sensory play helps children familiarize themselves with important sensory attributes (ex. sticky, dry, hot, cold, rough, smooth)

Here are some of our favourite and super easy sensory play recipes that can be made at home:

Jello Ocean Sensory Exploration

• jello
• blue dye
• ocean figures

Playdough (PS it's edible!)

• flour
• hot water
• vegetable oil
• food colouring

Paint (also edible!)

• flour
• hot water
• food colouring

Sand (edible again!)

• corn meal
• food colouring

Here are some more home ingredients that can be used for quick and easy sensory play ideas:

• cereal
• rice
• oatmeal
• beans
• corn