Can Sensory Toys Be Educational?

In the realm of early childhood and primary education, the integration of sensory play has garnered significant attention for its multifaceted benefits. Sensory toys, designed to engage a child's senses—touch, sight, sound, taste, and smell—serve as pivotal tools in fostering holistic development. Beyond mere entertainment, these toys play a crucial role in enhancing cognitive, motor, and social skills, making them indispensable in educational settings.

Understanding Sensory Toys

Sensory toys are crafted to stimulate one or more of the five senses, aiding in the development of sensory processing skills. They are especially beneficial for children with sensory processing disorders, autism spectrum disorder, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, all children can benefit from sensory play, as it promotes cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and social interaction.

Educational Benefits of Sensory Toys

1. Cognitive Development
   
   
   Engaging with sensory toys encourages exploration and curiosity, fostering cognitive development. Activities like sorting, matching, and building with sensory materials can enhance problem-solving skills and logical thinking. For instance, the Jellystone Triblox Silicone Teether available at Sensory Assist allow children to sort and stack, promoting colour recognition and spatial awareness.
2. Motor Skills Enhancement
   Many sensory toys require manipulation, which helps develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. For example, threading beads or using playdough can strengthen the small muscles in the hands. The Theraputty offered by Sensory Assist is an excellent tool for improving hand strength and dexterity.
3. Language and Communication Skills
   Sensory play often involves descriptive language, encouraging children to articulate their experiences. Discussing textures, colours, and sensations can expand vocabulary and enhance communication skills. Interactive books with sensory elements, such as the That's Not My... series, provide tactile experiences alongside storytelling, promoting language development.
4. Social Interaction
   
   
   Many sensory activities are designed for group play, promoting social skills such as sharing, turn-taking, and communication. Collaborative sensory play can help children learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy, and respect. The Sensory Play  from Sensory Assist includes various materials that encourage cooperative play among peers.
5. Emotional Regulation
   Sensory toys can have a calming effect, helping children manage emotions and reduce anxiety. Items like weighted blankets or stress balls provide proprioceptive input, which can be soothing for children. The Weighted Lap Pad available at Sensory Assist offers deep pressure stimulation, aiding in emotional regulation.

Types of Educational Sensory Toys

Sensory toys come in various forms, each targeting different senses and developmental areas:

• Tactile Toys: These include items like textured balls, kinetic sand, and sensory bins filled with materials such as rice or beans. They help children explore different textures and improve tactile discrimination. The Stretchy Sand from Sensory Assist provides a unique tactile experience, promoting fine motor skills.
  
• Visual Toys: Toys that stimulate sight include light-up toys, colourful puzzles, and kaleidoscopes. They can enhance visual tracking and attention. The Liquid Motion Bubbler offers a captivating visual experience, aiding in focus and relaxation.
• Auditory Toys: Musical instruments, sound tubes, and toys that produce various sounds can improve auditory processing and listening skills. The Rainmaker produces soothing sounds, enhancing auditory development.
• Olfactory and Gustatory Toys: Scented playdough or taste-safe sensory bins can engage the senses of smell and taste, though these are less common. The Aromatherapy Dough combines tactile and olfactory stimulation, promoting relaxation and sensory exploration.
• Proprioceptive and Vestibular Toys: Items like balance boards, swings, and weighted vests provide input to the body's sense of position and movement, aiding in balance and coordination. The Balance Board helps develop core strength and stability.

Incorporating Sensory Toys into Educational Settings

Early childhood and primary educators can effectively integrate sensory toys into the curriculum to enhance learning experiences:

• Sensory Stations: Setting up dedicated areas with various sensory materials allows children to explore and engage at their own pace. Rotating different sensory toys can keep the experience fresh and stimulating.
• Thematic Units: Incorporating sensory activities related to current themes or topics can deepen understanding and engagement. For example, during a unit on the ocean, a sensory bin filled with sand, water, and sea creature toys can provide a hands-on learning experience.
• Calming Corners: Designating a space with calming sensory toys, such as weighted blankets or soft tactile items, can provide a retreat for children needing to self-regulate. The Calming Kit from Sensory Assist includes various tools to support emotional regulation.
• Group Activities: Facilitating group sensory play can promote social skills and cooperation. Activities like passing a tactile ball or creating a collaborative art project with textured materials encourage interaction and teamwork.

Selecting Appropriate Sensory Toys

When choosing sensory toys for educational purposes, consider the following:

• Age Appropriateness: Ensure the toy is suitable for the child's developmental stage to guarantee safety and engagement.
• Sensory Preferences: Consider each child's sensory preferences and sensitivities to select items.

Learn how implementing Sensory Elements in the Classroom