Sensory Table Activities for Toddlers

For toddlers, learning is more than memorizing letters and numbers. It's an all sensory experience. Incorporating all five senses helps to increase attention and retention, and encourages the two halves of the brain to work together to problem solve and perfect motor skills. Sensory play is a vital role in a child's education, as it encourages almost all aspects of development, including cognitive, language and physical.

Wet Medium Play

Wet medium play refers to something that some kids love to do at bath time -- play in the water. Activities include observing how water reacts with other substances, such as sand or dirt, or using it to fill a cup or bucket before pouring it back out. Children can explore abstract concepts with wet play, such as which objects float or sink. Go "fishing" using small magnets attached to pieces of yarn and observe the color and size of the object once caught.

Dry Medium Play

Dry medium play involves much of the same types of activities as water, but done with dry materials such as sand or beans. Pouring, scooping and digging are all activities explored with dry mediums and can incorporate other materials such as dry macaroni and small rocks. Bury small objects in the medium and allow the child to find them by digging with a spoon and then depositing the item in a bowl.

Additional Props and Toys

You can include materials in sensory play, such as soft, pliable dough and putty or whipped cream. Practically any household item can be used to play, so long as it's not a danger to the child and fits comfortably in his hand. Whisks, tongs and cups are useful for scooping, pouring or counting games.