Sensory Development & Play

Sensory development refers to how children process and respond to the information they receive from their senses – sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell, movement (vestibular), body awareness (proprioception), and internal signals (interoception). These senses work together to help children understand their environment, learn new skills, and feel regulated in daily life.

Why Is Sensory Development Important?

Healthy sensory processing supports:

Attention and learning – being able to focus and engage with tasks.
Self-regulation – managing emotions and behaviour.
Gross and fine motor development – coordinating the body for everyday tasks.
Social participation – joining in play, group activities, and routines with peers.

The Role of Play in Sensory Development

Play is the natural way children explore and make sense of the world. Through play, children challenge their senses, build new connections in the brain, and strengthen motor and social skills.
Examples include:

Messy play – finger painting, sand, and water play (touch and tactile processing).
Movement play – swinging, spinning, climbing (vestibular system).
Construction play – building blocks, puzzles (vision and problem solving).
Pretend play – role play and imaginative games (social and emotional development).

Signs a Child May Need Extra Support with Sensory Processing

Avoiding certain textures, sounds, or movements.
Seeking constant movement, pressure, or touch.
Difficulty staying focused in busy environments.
Overreacting or underreacting to sensory input.
Struggling with transitions or changes in routine.

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

An occupational therapist can:

Assess sensory processing patterns and their impact on daily life.
Develop individualised strategies to support regulation and participation.
Incorporate sensory play and structured activities to build tolerance and skills.
Provide advice on adapting environments (home, school, community) to support the child’s sensory needs.

Supporting Sensory Development at Home Through Play

Offer a mix of calm and active play (e.g., story time followed by outdoor climbing).
Provide opportunities for sensory-rich experiences – playdough, water, musical instruments.
Encourage outdoor exploration – running on grass, digging in sand, nature walks.
Use movement breaks (jumping jacks, animal walks) to support focus and energy regulation.
Create a safe “calm corner” with soft toys, cushions, or weighted blankets to help children self-regulate.

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