When we talk about sensory development in infants, the first things that come to mind are messy hands and colourful chaos. But, wait up! Sensory play is so much more than that. It is a powerhouse for brain development in kids!
From exploring different textures and partaking in different scenarios, these experiences can spark cognitive growth and kindle imagination and love for learning in young minds. In this blog, we will talk about games for sensory development, and uncover how it sets the stage for lifelong development.
What is Sensory Development?
Sensory play matters more than what you might think. It is like your baby’s backstage pass to exploring the world! The development of sensory motor skills is all about the fine-tuning of their five senses; hearing, smell, taste, touch, and vision.
It also involves how their nervous system processes sensory inputs and converts them into movements or behaviors through a process called sensory integration.
When a baby is born, he/she is equipped with most of these senses, but the magic happens as they grow because fascinating changes continue to happen through their early years, that sets their incredible journey of discovery in motion. In a nutshell, sensory skills development through thoughtfully chosen brain development toys is the bedrock for your child’s ability to explore and interact with their surroundings.
Importance of Sensory Development in Kids
Here are some of the top reasons for sensory development in infants;
Sensory play can strengthen neural connections in the brain. When children engage and interact with different textures, sounds, or movements, it helps in building new blocks of memory and learning. Sensory development play is a daily workout for your child’s brain!
Sensory play helps kids process and information from their environment. Sensory development activities help improve attention and concentration, and that empowers children to make sense of the world around them.
Our brain has the ability to adapt to its surroundings. This is known as neuroplasticity. Sensory play can stimulate the growth and survival of neurons which makes the kids’ brains more flexible and open to learning and exploring new skills.
When you engage in play for sensory development, it can also strengthen connections that support language development, problem-solving, and critical thinking. This is because sensory play involves multitasking which can boost holistic development in kids.
Sensory skill development activities can include an array of activities like exploring different textures that can help calm the nervous system. It promotes emotional regulation as well which makes sure that your child is happy and thriving in any circumstance.
How Parents Can Help Develop Sensory Skills in Kids
Sensory play is the secret for helping kids grow smarter, calmer, and staying more connected to the world around them. This is how parents can help develop sensory motor skills in their little one:
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Picture Palette | Educational Wooden Game (ages 3-6)
This is one of the best Colour sorting toys out there that can help kids explore colours and patterns while working on their matching skills. This game has a wooden palette, 10 colourful coins and 16 double-sided picture boards which make it a perfect mix of creativity and cognitive development.
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Starry Stacker | Silicone Stacking Toy (Ages 6 months - 3 years)
This vibrant silicone stacker toy from Skillmatics’ features 7 soft, food-grade silicone stars in different sizes and colours which are perfect for tiny hands to explore. This toy is specially designed to spark creativity and develop motor skills in your little one.
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Seek & Splash Junior | Bath time Search and Find Game (ages 3-6)
Bath time is going to become so much more fun with Skillmatics’ Seek & Splash Junior; which is the ultimate search-and-find swimming pool game for kids! With this, kids can hunt for colourful gems underwater while matching them to the cards. With 48 vibrant gems, 35 waterproof game cards, and a handy net bag, this game is perfect for hours of splashy fun!
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Grocery Set | Play Food for Realistic Pretend Play (ages 3-7)
Skillmatics’ grocery pretend play toy features 100+ sturdy, paper-board play food items like broccoli, pasta, and pineapple slices. It is perfect for pretend cooking and meal prep. It will spark imagination in your little chef but also build essential skills like sorting, counting, and food identification
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High Contrast Sensory Cloth Mat (0-18 months)
Make tummy time exciting with this sensory mat for babies that features over 20 adorable animals, 6 unique textures, and 3 playful sounds to attract and engage your little one’s attention. Besides boosting sensory exploration, it turns playtime into a fun learning adventure as well.
Conclusion
The development of sensory skills in your little one can play a pivotal role in shaping their ability to explore, adapt, and thrive in this dynamic world. With Skillmatics’ thoughtfully curated range of kids learning toys, children can set forth on a path of cognitive, emotional, and physical development. From stacking toys, sorting colours, and exploring different textures on a sensory mat, these activities will create a strong base for lifelong learning.
So, come along and explore these activities to take your child’s playtime to the next level!
Faqs
Why is sensory play important for children?
Sensory play can help children develop their senses, hone motor skills and boost neural connections. Sensory development activities encourage exploration, creativity, and problem-solving skills in little children.
At what age does sensory development begin?
Babies start exploring their senses such as sight, touch, taste, hearing, and smell almost immediately after birth. These skills continue to evolve in early years.
What activities promote sensory development?
Stacking toys, sorting toys, activity mats etc., can be helpful in promoting sensory development in little ones.
How can parents support sensory development at home?
Parents can support sensory development by choosing kids’ learning toys from Skillmatics that involve the identification of different textures, sounds, and colours, which encourages children to explore their environment safely.
Are sensory toys effective for development?
Yes. Sensory toys are excellent for development as they stimulate senses and promote cognitive development in a fun and engaging way.
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