Sensory play is more than a fun pastime. It is an important and often helpful developmental and therapeutic tool that supports the cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being of both children and adults. For neurodivergent individuals, sensory play can offer structure, promote calm, and help navigate a world that often feels overwhelming.
This article explores the broad benefits of sensory play and how it can be adapted across ages and settings to support learning, regulation, and connection.
What Is Sensory Play?
Sensory play involves activities that engage the senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste, along with vestibular (balance and movement), proprioception (body awareness), and interoception (internal cues such as hunger or temperature). These activities encourage exploration, stimulate the brain, and help individuals respond to their environment.
For neurodivergent individuals, sensory play can support communication, emotional regulation, and learning in ways that traditional approaches may not. It is important to note that some activities may be calming for one person but overwhelming for another, so adaptation is key.
Why Sensory Play Matters
Sensory play is particularly beneficial for individuals with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, and other conditions. It can improve focus, manage sensory input, and support daily functioning.
Benefits for All Ages
- Improves attention and memory
- Strengthens fine and gross motor skills
- Encourages emotional expression and self-regulation
- Builds social interaction and communication strategies
- Provides a structured way to engage with the world
Sensory Play for Children
Cognitive and Language Development
Hands-on activities such as finger painting, pouring water, or exploring textured materials help children problem-solve and develop vocabulary. For children with limited verbal skills, these activities provide opportunities to express themselves non-verbally.
Motor Skills
- Fine motor skills: squeezing playdough, picking up small objects, drawing in sand
- Gross motor skills: climbing, swinging, dancing
Social and Emotional Skills
Group sensory activities promote turn-taking, cooperation, and emotional recognition. These shared experiences support children who find traditional social interaction challenging.
Emotional Regulation
Activities like rocking, playing with kinetic sand, or using a stress ball can help manage anxiety and teach children self-regulation skills.
Sensory Play for Adults
Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Weighted blankets, calming music, scented oils, and tactile tasks such as clay work can reduce stress and offer non-verbal communication outlets.
Cognitive Function
Puzzles, fidget tools, and scent-based activities support focus and mental clarity, which are especially helpful for individuals with ADHD or memory challenges.
Supporting Daily Life
Sensory-friendly environments that include noise-cancelling headphones, compression clothing, or aromatherapy make daily routines more manageable.
Types of Sensory Play
Touch-Based
- Kinetic sand
- Weighted blankets
- Texture boards
- Stress balls
- DIY sensory bins
Auditory
- Nature sounds
- Drumming
- Music therapy
Scent-Based
- Lavender, peppermint, or citrus oils
- Scented playdough
- Aromatherapy diffusers
Movement-Based
- Yoga or stretching
- Rocking chairs or swings
- Deep-pressure exercises
Adapting Sensory Play at Home and in Schools
At Home
- Rice or beans for texture exploration
- Shaving cream drawing
- Homemade stress balls
- Sensory bottles with water, glitter, and beads
In the Classroom
- Sensory tables or bins
- Movement breaks during lessons
- Calming corners or sensory rooms
- Personalised sensory diets for students
UK-based resources such as The National Autistic Society, Scope, and NHS services provide guidance, strategies, and support for educators and families seeking to integrate sensory approaches.
Sensory Activities Across the Lifespan
For Infants
- Soft fabrics for touch
- Mess-free painting in sealed bags
- Gentle musical toys
For Toddlers
- Taste-safe sensory bins
- Pouring and scooping games
- Soft dough play
For Preschoolers
- Kinetic sand
- Homemade sound shakers
- Theme-based sensory bins
For Adults
- Weighted blankets for relaxation
- Art-based therapy
- Noise control aids for work
Frequently Asked Questions
How does sensory play support emotional development?
It creates safe spaces for expression and helps develop self-regulation strategies.
Why is sensory play important for individuals with disabilities?
It may support stronger neural pathways and promote independence, while also helping some individuals manage challenges related to sensory overload.
What are the learning outcomes of sensory play?
Growth in memory, communication, problem-solving, and motor skills.
What are some easy sensory activities at home?
Playing with kinetic sand, rice bins, scented playdough, or sensory bottles.
What is a sensory bin?
A container filled with sensory-rich materials such as rice, beans, or themed objects for hands-on exploration.
Final Thoughts
Sensory play is a flexible approach that supports growth and well-being across all life stages. It can aid communication, regulation, and connection for neurodivergent individuals. From simple texture games to structured sensory rooms, these activities make environments more inclusive and supportive.