Watching an infant wake up to the world is an amazing experience. I have two boys, a two-year-old and a seven-month-old, and I am relishing sensory activities for both of them. I have to admit, however, that creating activities for my infant is a bit less complicated than those activities for my toddler.
People often ask “at what age should I begin sensory play with my baby?” Well, I hate to break it to you but your baby started sensory play in the womb!
Why is Sensory Play Important?
Today, for example, after receiving a package from UPS that included some wonderful crinkly craft paper as part of the packing within the package, I handed the paper over to my seven-month-old and all was well with the world for the next twenty minutes.
DIY Montessori Toys for Babies – Treasure Basket
Creating a sensory exercise is simple. You don't need a big tub or basket. I have used a large food storage container that I'd typically use for leftovers, a tray, and a small basket, all I found around my house.
Adding items is simple and you most likely will find all you need already within the walls of your home.
Sensory Toys & Play Ideas for Infants
Here are several wonderful sensory items for your infant!
- Large colorful pom-poms
- EduShape sensory balls
- Wooden spoon
- Small bottle or (measuring) cup
- Pinecone (this item might be in your yard! Get outside! Nature play is the best!)
- Tambourine or drum (any sturdy musical instrument)
- Sophie the Giraffe
- Pieces of different texture fabric (shiny ribbon, felt, velvet, etc)
- Pieces of different texture paper (crinkly, rough, etc)
- Large figurines (dinosaur, sea creature, etc)
That list is only the beginning. The basket itself can be a sensory experience too.
DIY Montessori Toys for Babies – Bathtime
My other favorite sensory activity is so obviously right in front of our eyes I feel like I am cheating simply mentioning it: THE BATHTUB! Bath time can be a fun, relaxing way to unwind from the day. It can also be a sensory experience.
The feel of the water, the temperature, and the bubbles make the bath stimulating in itself. Add a few cups for pouring and you have got yourself an excellent built-in sensory lesson. I pour cups of water back and forth, and I have a few types of bottles to squirt, spray, etc. Pure, simple joy, and learning.
Lastly, there is always the feeding experience, one of the best sensory activities in existence! :-)
Thanks for reading and happy baby exploring!
Marnie
Sensory Activities & Tubs
