Have you ever noticed how children seem naturally drawn to explore the world around them with all their senses? That’s because sensory play allows them to learn and connect with their environment naturally. It’s more than just fun; it’s a fundamental part of their development, creating not only sensory integration but supporting a sense of wonder!
Sensory play engages a child’s five senses – touch, sight, sound, smell, and even their body awareness (proprioception). As they explore textures, sounds, and smells in nature, they’re not just having fun; they’re building a deeper connection with the world around them. It’s like they’re constantly asking, “Who am I? Where do I fit in?” through their senses. As a teacher, I offer children a lot of opportunities of play and when I can I use nature as my co-teacher. For example, I pick up natural loose parts and offer children to engage in slow play – or exploratory learning, as they interact with the materials found in nature.
This list offers some ideas to spark curiosity and ignite a love for the outdoors through sensory exploration. I hope this will spark some creativity and support you in your planning.
1. The Barefoot Trail
Find a safe, grassy area and ask children to take their shoes off. Make sure that the area is free from sharp glass or other hazards, yet includes a variety of textures, like soft grass, smooth stones, or crunchy leaves. Challenge children to walk through blindfolded (with their permission), focusing on the feeling of the earth beneath their feet (proprioception).
2. The Listening Walk
I do it as an adult every single day when I walk my dog. Take a nature walk with children, but this time, focus on sounds. Ask children to close their eyes (with permission) and listen carefully. Can they identify birds singing, leaves rustling, or the distant hum of insects (hearing)? Discuss the different sounds and how they create a unique soundscape. If you are stuck indoors during the rain, lie down on the floor and ask children to identify all the sounds they hear.
3. The Texture Treasure Hunt
Invite children on a nature walk with a focus on textures. Encourage them to touch different elements – the smooth bark of a tree, the rough surface of a rock, the soft petals of a flower (touch). Talk about the descriptive words they can use to describe these textures (bumpy, smooth, soft).
4. The Scentsational!
Nature is filled with incredible smells! During your next walk (bush kinder session or excursion), encourage children to stop and sniff the pine needles, freshly cut grass, gum tree leaves, or fragrant native flowers (smell). Discuss the different scents and how they evoke certain feelings.
5. The Nature Mandala
Collect colourful leaves, pebbles, and flowers on your walk. Use these natural materials to create a beautiful mandala on the ground or a flat rock. This activity incorporates creativity with a connection to the natural world (sight & touch).
Share your favourite types of nature play in the comments below!
Storykate
