Sensory Games for Early Years and Why They’re Great for Development

Every child learns through play. In those early years, sensory activities are the perfect way to spark curiosity, build skills and have fun all at the same time. At Armadillos Nursery we love seeing little ones explore textures, sounds and sights. These sensory games help children develop in so many important ways.

What Are Sensory Games?

Sensory games engage one or more of the five senses i.e., touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste. They encourage children to explore their environment and notice differences in texture, temperature and movement. From a simple treasure basket filled with natural objects to a bubbling water tray, these activities give hands‑on experience that textbooks simply cannot match.

Boosting Fine Motor Skills

Many sensory games involve picking up small items, pouring rice or squeezing sponges. These actions strengthen tiny muscles in the hands and fingers. That translates into better pencil grip, easier button‑fastening and more confidence when using scissors. A classic rice‑and‑bean sensory bin or a tray of coloured pasta can work wonders for dexterity.

Supporting Language and Communication

When children engage with new materials, they instinctively describe what they feel and see. This sparks conversations with adults and peers. Asking questions like What does it feel like? or Which colour is softer? encourages children to use descriptive words. Over time their vocabulary expands and they learn to express themselves more clearly.

Encouraging Social Skills

Many sensory games work best in small groups. Sharing scoops of sand or passing around scented play dough teaches children to take turns, negotiate and cooperate. They learn to observe others, ask for help and offer support. All of these interactions form the foundation of positive relationships.

Strengthening Cognitive Development

Sorting activities – such as grouping shells by size or matching bells by sound – help children understand concepts like colour, shape and size. Sensory trails, where little feet walk from carpet to bubble wrap to grass, build spatial awareness and adaptive thinking. Problem‑solving skills flourish as children predict what will happen next and try different strategies.

Calming and Emotional Regulation

Some sensory games have a soothing effect. Playing with water beads or stirring thick slime can be very calming. When children feel overwhelmed or restless, these activities help them settle, focus and regulate their emotions. That sense of calm can improve attention during circle time or story reading.

Easy Sensory Games to Try

1. Treasure Basket

   Fill a low basket with wooden spoons, feathers, pine cones and soft toys. Let children explore and describe their finds.

2. Texture Walk

   Arrange mats of rubber, bubble wrap, foam and carpet. Encourage toddlers to walk barefoot and talk about how each one feels.

3. Sound Matching

   Place different objects in closed containers – coins, buttons, beads – and let children shake them. Can they match the pairs by sound?

4. Edible Paints

   Mix yoghurt with a drop of food colouring and let little hands paint on paper. Safe to taste and great for messy fun.

5. Water Play

   Provide cups, funnels and sponges in a shallow tray. Water play is perfect for hand‑eye coordination and imaginative scenarios.

Final Thoughts

Sensory play is a vital part of early years development. It builds physical skills, boosts communication, nurtures social bonds and supports emotional health. Best of all, it’s joyful and engaging for children of all abilities.

If you’d like to see sensory games in action and learn more about our nurturing environment at Armadillos Nursery, book a visit today. Discover how we celebrate every child’s progress and love the little moments just as much as the big ones. Learn more at Armadillos Nursery.