Sensory play is important for a baby’s development, as it stimulates their senses and promotes cognitive, physical, and emotional growth. Creating engaging baby sensory Dubai experiences doesn’t require expensive toys or elaborate setups; everyday items can provide a land of exploration and discovery. Find here fun ways to use common household items for baby sensory play.
Kitchen utensils:
Your kitchen is a treasure trove of sensory materials. Wooden spoons, measuring cups, and whisks can be fascinating for babies to explore. Allow them to bang pots and pans to create sounds, or fill containers with rice, pasta, or water for them to scoop and pour. These activities stimulate auditory and tactile senses and also help develop fine motor skills as babies grasp and manipulate the utensils.
Cardboard boxes:
Don’t throw away those cardboard boxes! They can be transformed into a sensory haven. Cut out windows and doors to create a playhouse, or fill the box with different textured materials, such as soft blankets, crumpled paper, or fabric scraps. Babies love crawling in and out of boxes, and the various textures provide tactile stimulation. You can also create a mini “fort” by draping sheets over the box, creating a cozy space for exploration.
Plastic bottles:
Empty plastic bottles can be transformed into sensory toys with just a little creativity. Fill them with rice, pasta, or small balls and secure the cap tightly. Babies can shake the bottles to hear different sounds, and the visual appeal of the contents will captivate their attention. You can also fill bottles with water and add small toys or glitter for a visually stimulating “sensory bottle” that provides a calming effect when shaken.
Fabric scraps:
Gather a variety of fabric scraps with different textures—silk, cotton, fleece, or burlap. Babies love to touch and feel various materials, and this activity promotes tactile exploration. You can create a “feely bag” by placing the fabric scraps in a bag and letting babies reach in to explore the textures. This activity encourages sensory curiosity and helps babies distinguish between different sensations.
Nature finds:
Nature is an excellent source of sensory play materials. Take a walk outside and collect items like leaves, pinecones, flowers, and rocks. Let babies explore these natural treasures, feeling the different textures and smelling the flowers. Supervise them closely, ensuring safety while they discover the wonders of nature. These activities promote sensory exploration and connect babies to the natural land.
