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Sensory toys provide a unique and powerful way for people of all ages to interact with their environment, develop essential skills, and find both joy and relaxation.
These specialized toys target our senses – touch, sight, sound, smell, movement, and even body awareness – and are incredibly valuable for growth and well-being.
Plus, you’ll find expert videos and resources for even more insight into the power of Play & Toys!
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Sensory Toys Categorization by Sensory Type
| Sensory System | Descriptions, Benefits and Examples of Sensory Toys |
|---|---|
| Tactile (Touch) | Toys that provide tactile stimulation through touch. Benefits: Promotes fine motor development, can provide calming or stimulating input depending on the toy. Examples Include: Squishy toys (stress balls, modeling clay), Textured balls and fabrics, Kinetic toys, Slime, oobleck, water beads, Liquid motion toys |
| Visual | Toys that engage the sense of sight. Benefits: Encourages visual tracking and attention, can be calming or stimulating depending on the visual effects. Examples Include: Light-up toys, Fiber optic lights, Bubble tubes, Glitter jars |
| Auditory (Sound) | Toys that create sounds or focus on auditory input. Benefits: Develops auditory processing and awareness, can promote focus or relaxation. Examples Include: Musical instruments (shakers, tambourines), Toys with sound effects (crinkling toys, squeeze toys with noises), Nature sounds/white noise machines |
| Vestibular (Movement & Balance) | Toys that promote movement and balance awareness. Benefits: Supports body awareness, coordination, and can be helpful for regulating energy levels. Examples Includes: Swings, Trampolines, Rocking toys, Balance beams |
| Proprioceptive (Body Awareness) | Toys providing deep pressure or input related to body position. Benefits: Provides deep pressure input, which can be calming and help with focus. Examples Includes: Weighted blankets and vests, Compression garments, Vibration toys, Resistance bands |
| Olfactory (Smell) | Toys that engage the sense of smell. Benefits: Can trigger positive associations and memories, can be used to promote relaxation or alertness depending on the scent. Examples Includes: Scented playdough or slime, Aromatherapy diffusers, Scratch-and-sniff stickers |
Popular & Trending Sensory Toys on amazon.com
- Montessori Sensory Toys for Toddler on amzon.com
- Pop Tubes Sensory Toys on amazon.com
- BUNMO Super Sensory Stretchy Strings on amazon.com
- Squishy Sensory Toys for Kids Toddlers on amazon.com
- Fidget Toys Set on amazon.com
Age-Specific Recommendations
Let’s delve into how sensory toys can be tailored to different developmental stages:
Baby Sensory Toys (0 – 12 Months)
- Focus on soft textures, high-contrast patterns, gentle sounds, and safe items for mouthing.
- Examples: Textured rattles, soft crinkle toys, light-up mobiles, teethers.
Toddler Sensory Toys (1- 3 Years)
- Toddlers crave exploration! Introduce messier textures, more active movement toys, and simple cause-and-effect toys.
- Examples: Water play tables, finger paints, fidget toys, push-and-pull toys, swings.
Preschool Sensory Toys (3 – 5 Years)
- Imaginative play meets sensory input. Building materials, role-play with textured props, and music creation get exciting.
- Examples: Kinetic sand, playdough with tools, dress-up clothes, with various fabrics, simple musical instruments.
Grade Schooler Sensory Toys (6 -12 Years)
- Kids this age can still benefit from sensory regulation and focus tools.
- Examples: Fidget toys, weighted lap pads, trampolines, nature exploration kits with magnifiers.
Adult Sensory Toys
- Adults also find relaxation, focus, and enjoyment from sensory experiences.
- Examples: Fidget toys, Weighted blankets, stress balls, aromatherapy diffusers, noise-canceling headphones.
Choosing the Right Sensory Toys
- Observe your child: Notice what textures, sounds, and movements they are drawn to or avoid. This helps customize sensory offerings.
- Safety first: Always supervise play and choose toys that are age-appropriate and don’t contain small parts or choking hazards.
- Variety is key: Offer a wide range of sensory experiences and rotate toys regularly to keep them engaging.
Sensory toys are a fantastic investment in learning, development, and well-being for all ages.
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes. Always consider your individual child’s interests and developmental needs when selecting toys.
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Resources
- Pathway Org – Simple Sensory Activities for Baby
- National Institute for Play – How We Play
- Toy Industries of Europe – What makes a toy safe?