#SafeAtHome | Sensory Play Activities for Pre-School Children with @emma_mcmenemy

Most days I schedule two sensory activities that usually takes around 45-60 minutes, including a quick set up and clear away. The above work wonderfully for my little ones and their current life stages however the great thing about sensory play - and in particular these activities - is you can alter them depending on your child’s developmental stage. Sensory play has endless benefits - it’s quick and easy to introduce into your little ones' play and with all this time at home, now more than ever is a great time to get started.

What you’ll need: 

- A large container
- Water
- Stickle bricks or anything colourful that preferably floats
- Spatula, ladle or big spoon

For this one my 3 year old scoops out the coloured pieces and separates them into correct colour bundle. For those little ones not quite at that stage, fishing for object is an awesome way to practice hand co-ordination skils. 

What you’ll need: 
- A few containers, (kids bowls, tupper-ware, plastic dishes)

- Dry cupboard foods, (cereal, lentils, pasta, flour, sugar)

- A few utensils (spoons, ladle, pastry brush)

Pour a little of each into smaller containers and let the creating commence – a huge hit for both kids. 

What you’ll need:

- Large container (basin, bucket, bin)
- Oats
- Toy diggers

Oats are a great alternative for those kids who don’t like the feel of sand. This free-play activity tends to last the longest in our home, Alfie loves to scoops the oats, level them out and repeat, it’s a great way to encourage imaginative play. Try adding some rocks and stones (age appropriate of course), for extra texture.

What you’ll need:
- Large plastic container (minimum 64l capacity)
- White flour
- Oil (vegetable or baby oil)

Measurements will vary depending on the container you’re filling – for every 4 cups of flour, add ½ cup oil. I like to leave ours white however adding food dye works great for adding a pop of colour. For today's activity, the kids made sand castles, buried shells then dug them up again - a firm favourite in our house. My littlest one, Esme loves the feeling of moon sand on her feet, she’s always trying to climb in the bucket. 

All images by @emma_mcmenemy 
Follow Emma, Alf & Esme | Instagram

Share with us on Instagram your sensory play images @childrensalon #safeathome