Are Sensory Toys Effective?

Problem-solving and Creativity:

Problem-solving and creativity are developed from learning to share space and items, as well as learning to navigate the forces of nature. Children playing together are often working on turn-taking. A child may also discover that a large item does not fit through a small funnel. By learning the cause-and-effect attributes in nature, children have to think critically and be creative in discovering how things work. These skills develop curious and creative thinkers.

Imagination:

Sticks, beans, blocks, and rocks can become beloved play materials because of their open-ended capabilities. The use of these items is only limited by the imagination of the individual.

Communication Skills:

Whether children are playing with adult caretakers or young playmates, opportunities to communicate are robust. Discussions can emerge regarding their imaginary scenario or the elements and interactions that occur within the playscape. This type of communication is more of what you would typically think of as communication.

There are different levels of communication though that everyone may not always think of.

• Playing non-verbally, children can begin to associate textures, actions, sounds, and scenarios with the verbal cues given by an engaged adult. For example: “This pom pom is soft.” “This sounds like rain falling.” “The bulldozer scoops.”

• The child can point to or identify items that an adult is describing verbally.

• The child can verbally identify items, describe textures, and make verbal requests.

• The child can develop social skills while learning turn-taking and problem-solving with a playmate.

• More advanced interactions can involve children engaging in imaginary play together.

Sensory Stimulation:

Through tactile play, children will develop their sensory processing skills by stimulating the nerve endings and developing a safe tolerance to new textures.

Sensory bins can be used for stress relief, fine motor development, and sensory stimulation. Learning progression varies for all children, so the age groups that will benefit the most from the use of sensory play will depend on the learner. Both an early learner and a child with sensory processing delays can equally benefit from the use of sensory toys, regardless of their specific age.

*Sensory bins are good for children over 18 months of age. Before this age, sensory bins are not developmentally appropriate because of potential choking hazards. Any child that tends to put items in their mouth should always be monitored.