Sensory stimulation is an important way that babies first get to know the world around them. By allowing them to explore freely and get messy can support them to learn more effectively, providing a whole range of benefits such as language development, social interaction, physical development for fine and gross motor skills.
This term the Portland House babies have enjoyed participating in lots of sensory activities which have been in addition to the 4 sensory classes that were complimentary to the prospective parents and families within the local community on Mondays during January and February.
The babies particularly enjoyed shaking and wafting the big parachute and bouncing objects along to songs and rhymes, experiencing the different lights, sounds, rhythm and rhymes and their absolute favourite was bubbles catching and popping them to the bubble song. They have also had lots of opportunities for a multitude of tactile activities including making marks in the sand and using playdough with winter colours and aromas.
Sensory play for babies involves activities stimulating their five senses (touch, sight, hearing, smell, taste) plus movement and balance, all of which are crucial for brain development. Simple, activities like tummy time with mirrors, splashing in water, playing with textured fabrics, or listening to music help to build their neural connections. These activities support cognitive, motor, and social-emotional growth and are easy to practise and enjoy at home too.
