Benefits of Sensory Classes for Toddlers
Now that your little one is getting more mobile, a whole new world of exploration opens up to them! While this means more childproofing is necessary to keep the environment a safe play space, it also means your toddler’s mind is seeking out opportunities to learn and experience new things.
Having fun and engaging all the senses in play is one of the best ways to help your child develop, all while making wonderful memories.
How sensory stimulation promotes your toddler’s development
Sensory stimulation is crucial to your toddler’s development. Before they have a firm grasp on language, babies and toddlers learn about the world around them via their senses. Everything they touch, hear, see, taste and smell is helping to create important connections in your little one’s brain. Research shows that introducing your toddler to a wide variety of sensory stimuli early on helps them become more open to new sensations, tastes, sights, sounds and feelings.
Sensory play can assist with:
- boosting cognitive development
- developing language skills faster and more easily
- improving gross and fine motor skills
- encouraging curiosity and creativity.
Sensory stimulation at home
Organising fun sensory activities at home is a great way to build a strong, connected relationship with your toddler. This is because sensory activities encourage active interaction, meaning your attention is focused on each other and the sensations being explored.
For a simple sensory activity, go on an adventure in the garden. You can:
- Explore a range of different textures – smooth leaves, rough bark, etc.
- Sit still and feel the breeze. Point out how it makes the leaves move.
- Shhhhh! Pause to listen. What sounds can you hear? Birds singing. A lawn mower humming. Cars rumbling by.
- Smell a flower or a gum leaf.
- Finish with a delicious picnic, taking time to notice the taste and texture of each food.
Why sensory classes are great for toddlers
Sensory classes are super fun for toddlers because they offer an exciting range of play opportunities that they may not get to try elsewhere.
As they begin to develop social skills, they will move from playing side by side with other toddlers to seeking them out for shared play. These early friendships are important socially and emotionally, as children learn the rules of interacting with others, like sharing and taking turns.
Sensory classes for toddlers are also great for parents! You’ll get to spend time having fun with your little one, with no need to plan the activities, find and buy resources or tidy the house afterwards.
Making Rainbows sensory classes are a great way for parents to make friends, too. Building your village means developing a strong support system around your family which is vital as the years go by.
What to expect during toddler sensory classes
Classes have been thoughtfully planned by a qualified early childhood educator and include a fun mix of music, singing, dance, movement, and games. Classes are designed to encourage your toddler’s natural curiosity in a gentle and pressure-free environment. No matter their age or ability, children can engage at a level they are comfortable with.
Trial our toddler sensory classes
Not ready to commit to a term of sensory classes? Book a trial class to experience Making Rainbows with your toddler.