In line with our program's Montessori principles, sensory play engages all five senses. It is important for children from age 2 to age 6 years old to engage in as many sensorial activities as possible. Going outside is one of the best ways to engage one's senses. However on those rainy or cold days, it is nice for children to have access to a sensory bin.
This month Mrs. Duran guided our children in Little Kingdom to engage in a winter theme sensory bin. You can make this easily with home materials.
What you need to make your sensory bin:
One big bin
White rice
Cotton balls
Spoons for scooping
Mason jars, cups, or bowls
Clothespins
Guide students to explore and interact freely with the materials. This is a time to let students be creative with the materials. Scooping, pouring, picking up cotton balls with clothespins, and feeling different textures are all ways they experience their senses.
The benefits of sensory bins are tremendous!
Research shows that sensory play builds nerve connections in the brain’s pathways which lead to the child’s ability to complete more complex learning tasks.
Sensory play supports language development, cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills, problem solving skills, and social interaction.
This type of play aids in developing and enhancing memory.
Sensory play is great for calming an anxious or frustrated child.
This helps children learn sensory attributes (hot, cold, sticky, dry)
See here for more Montessori sensorial activities.