Sensory Learning
Play is how kids explore, discover, and learn about the world around them.
As babies and toddlers begin to explore their home and surroundings, you can keep them safe and engaged as they play and discover. Watch this video and then try some of these playful activities that help children learn through their senses:
- “Tummy time” helps babies learn to hold up their heads, crawl, and focus on their surroundings. Set up a small mirror in front of them so they can see their reflection and expressions.
- Little ones explore by touching everything and anything! Find safe objects of different textures for children to touch and explore. Try a cotton ball, a cardboard box, a small plastic bottle with water, some plastic containers, and a wooden spoon.
- Sounds are all around us, and kids love making their own sounds and music! Set up homemade instruments to play with: a pot and spoon can be a drum set, and a paper-towel roll with holes poked in it can be a “flute.” Encourage siblings to play with sounds together, and use their voices to sing along.
“First/Then” Boards: Managing Daily Routines
A printable tool to help children know what to expect in their daily routines and activities.
Planning for Play in Daily Routines
A printable page to plan moments of playfulness during daily routines.
Provider-Parent Communications Log
A printable page to help parents and caregivers communicate about a child’s day.
Communicating with Parents and Caregivers Around Routines
An article offering strategies for communication with parents/caregivers.
Lesson Planning Practice
A tool to plan opportunities for learning connected to monthly and weekly themes.
Shaping an Engaging Learning Environment
Your space is full of opportunities for children to learn and grow!
Planning Our Days: Creating Schedules for Children
Planning ahead can help you be intentional about the learning of the children in your care!
