Sensory Play Ideas for Casual Teachers

For casual teachers - here are some simple yet engaging sensory play ideas that can be easily implemented

These sensory play ideas for casual teachers are flexible and can be adapted to suit various settings and age groups. They provide opportunities for casual teachers to engage students in hands-on learning experiences that stimulate their senses and foster creativity.

1 Sensory Bags

Create sensory bags using resealable plastic bags filled with various materials. For example, you can fill a bag with hair gel and small toys or beads for a squishy sensory experience. Another option is to fill a bag with coloured soap foam for a tactile and visual sensory activity. Seal the bags tightly to prevent leaks and provide them to students for squishing and exploring.

2 Sensory Playdough

Set out the playdough along with small tools like cookie cutters, rolling pins, and plastic utensils for students to manipulate and shape the dough.

3 Sensory Exploration Trays

Create sensory exploration trays using shallow containers or baking trays filled with different materials. For example, you can fill a tray with dried beans, rice, or pasta for a tactile experience. Add small toys, figurines, or natural materials like leaves and twigs for students to discover and explore using their senses.

4 Sensory Art Activities

Incorporate sensory elements into art activities by using materials like textured paper, fabric scraps, feathers, and cotton balls. Encourage students to create tactile artworks by gluing and arranging these materials onto paper or cardboard. You can also add scented markers or scented paint to enhance the sensory experience.

5 Outdoor Sensory Play

Take advantage of outdoor spaces for sensory play activities. Set up a nature exploration area where students can collect natural materials like rocks, pinecones, and leaves. Provide buckets of water and paintbrushes for outdoor painting activities on pavement or chalkboards. Allow students to explore different textures and sensory experiences in the outdoor environment.

For more great reading about sensory play ideas for casual teachers you can head to the Montessori Academy website. https://montessoriacademy.com.au/what-is-sensory-play-and-why-is-it-important/

Reference - https://montessoriacademy.com.au

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