Sensory Activities for Children

What is a Sensory Activity?

A sensory activity is anything that involves the 5 senses (taste, touch, smell, hearing, sight) and also the vestibular or proprioception systems (see what are the 8 senses for more info). Sensory activities for children can be messy, engaging, fun, and easy to put together.

Also, see The Importance of Messy Play for Children.

What is the Vestibular System?

In short, the vestibular system is located in the inner ear and has to do with balance. The key with vestibular movements is getting the head into as many different positions or planes as possible since that is what activates the various receptors in the inner ear. Jumping, swinging, rolling, hanging are usually associated with vestibular because of the head position. Scooter boards can also be considered vestibular input.

You can read more about the vestibular system here:

How the Vestibular System Affects Your Child's Behavior

What is the Proprioception System?

An easy description is proprioception is being able to know where your body is in space and where your limbs are in relation to your body. Muscle planning, grading muscle movement, being able to move your arms and legs without necessarily looking at them all fall under proprioception. Pushing, pulling, jumping, big heavy work movements can all be considered proprioception. Proprioception input is located in the large muscle groups and the spine.

Below I have a list of all the sensory activities for children that I have posted about here on GRB. I am always adding new posts, so be sure to pin this page and check back often to see if anything is new. I have divided the activities into easy to follow sections.

To view the activity, click on the link that interests you and you will be taken to that post on my blog where you can read about how to set up the activity.

Sensory Activities for Babies (Ages 0-2)

Sensory Activities for Toddlers (Ages 2-4)

Sensory Activities for Preschoolers (Ages 4-6)

** All the activities for previous ages can also be used for preschoolers

Sensory Activities for All Children

A-Z's of Sensory Play for Kids Series – 26 ideas from moms, therapists, teachers and more!
Straight Lines Sensory Bin for Multiple Ages
Calming, Organizing, and Alerting Activities (FREE PRINTABLE)
Water Table Fun
How to Make Homemade Finger Paint
How to Make Sensory Bags with Leftover Finger Paint
6 Sensory Activities for Kids Who Climb & Jump
40 Sensory Break Ideas for Kids
10 Brain Break Ideas for Kids
Fun Ways to Use a Sensory Body Sock
The Importance of Messy Play for Children
25 Play Dough Invitation to Play Ideas for Kids

Sensory Activities for Each Sensory System

Here are some specific sensory activities for each of the sensory systems. I have not written posts for each one yet, but I will add them here as I do.

The Vestibular System