Sensory play may feel a little daunting at first but don't worry, its not hard!
Just follow these simple steps to make a simple Sensory Play Tray!
1. Grab a tub or tray
You can use a container from your panty or even a baking tray. We love keeping sensory bases and tools ready to go in the Decor cupcake container.
If you'd like something bigger tuff trays are great as well as the Ikea Flisat table. We have personally owned a tuff tray since my children were babies are are still using it well into their schooling years!
Other great options include the Jellystone Play Tray, Flat White Tray or the Grapat Free Play Box (for dry sensory bases).
Handy Tip: Set up your tray on a sheet if you have one as it will make clean up quicker and easier by helping to contain some of the mess!
2. Add a Base
There are so many great bases to choose from but here are some of our favourites.
Firstly keep it simple with water!
Then you could try something else taste safe like coloured rice, chickpeas, black beans or gloop (cornflour and water).
Once children are not mouthing you can move onto other things such as Fizzle Dust/PlayFizz, Magic Sand and Water Marbles.
3. Add Tools
Next its time to add some tools to scoop and transfer the base.
We love adding in small bowls/cups. Some of our favourites to use are the Baby Bowls, Baby Cup and Suction Kupz. You can also use bits and pieces from your kitchen cupboards such as containers and measuring cups.
You'll also need a spoon or scoop. You can purchase these as singles or also in a set. We love the Explore Nook, Papoose and Wild Mountain Child scoops and have a mix of all of them. Again you can use things from the kitchen - teaspoons, soup spoon, ladel etc.
For sensory play involving water we love to add in the droppers, test tube and a strainer too!
4. Add something extra... if you wish!
This isn't a necesity but it is alot of fun to change up a simple sensory play tray and make it feel 'new' again!
Some of our favourite combinations to add are:
- Pom poms and tongs
- Metal rim counting chips and magnetic wand
- CollectA tube animals and a brush
- Sand moulds (for use with Magic Sand)
-
Crystals and a magnifying glass
5. Happy playing!
Sit back and relax or get involved in play with them! I personally find it really calming and a great way to reconnect after a busy day.
