Let's Play! Sensory Table

"We cannot create observers by saying 'observe,' but by giving them the power and the means for this observation and these means are procured through education of the senses". - Maria Montessori

SENSORY TABLE PLAY:

Create your own mini sensory table by grabbing any medium to large plastic container and placing rice, dried beans, gel balls, cotton balls, mini beads, etc. about 1/2-way full. Add small toys/objects such as cars, animals, blocks, etc. for a treasure hunt and exploration, along with spoons, bowls, cups of various shapes/sizes for scooping & pouring. Placing a mat or towel down 1st, & using a tight lid can help with clean-up. Always supervise activity, & wait until children are no longer mouthing objects before introducing.

This activity addresses the following developmental skills: fine motor (scooping/pouring), cognitive (problem-solving how to find items & use utensils, dramatic play with animals), sensory stimulation/desensitization (can also be very calming), language (talk about what’s found, characteristics, & what you can do with it.)

Activity Shared By: Sue Jones Talbott, MSEd, ECSE

About Sue:

I’ve been working with infants, toddlers, & preschoolers with special needs for 26 years. I started working with 3-5-year-old preschoolers in the classroom, but have enjoyed working with toddlers & their families for nearly 2 decades. I really enjoy getting the whole family involved in playing with their child.

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