Sensory Play Activities for Babies 0-18 Months

Stacie BennettBy Stacie Bennett•Feb 5, 2022•
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Sensory play for babies and toddlers is an important part of the interactions parents bring to their children. Engaging their senses is the beginning of a life filled with curiosity and exploration, and one that is good for their development.

In This Article

  • 0-3 Month Sensory Play Activities
  • 3-6 Month Sensory Play Activities
  • 6-9 Month Sensory Play Activities
  • 9-12 Month Sensory Play Activities
  • 12-18 Month Sensory Play Activities

Even more, kids learn best through play and this is most certainly true with babies. One of the most important types of play that your child can be engaged in sensory play because it encourages brain development.

As a parent it’s always exciting to watch your child learn new sights, sounds, colors, and shapes. Sensory play is a great way to target those skills!

0-3 Month Sensory Play Activities

Newborns are growing and learning at lightning speed, so it’s important to stimulate those little minds as much as you can. The best time to work with little ones this small is usually 15-30 minutes after a feeding or nap. You may have to start gradually and build up the time you play so that they aren’t overstimulated. 

Because babies this small are working on their senses, it’s a good idea to target those things right now. 

    baby-sensory

    3-6 Month Sensory Play Activities

    By 6 months, your baby is starting to get more and more curious and excited about the world around them. They will start to notice patterns and colors. Babies might also start enjoying tummy time a little bit more! One great way to work on cognitive development and motor skills is to place objects a little bit out of your child’s reach and have them try to grasp them!

      6-9 Month Sensory Play Activities

      At this point in their lives, babies are able to handle more stimulation and can focus for slightly longer periods of time. He/she will start to enjoy looking at their world around them, so make sure to use sensory activities that will boost their interest!

        9-12 Month Sensory Play Activities

        This is where the fun really begins. Babies will start to pull up and cruise at this point. This means they have more of a chance to explore and see their world in its entirety. Try these sensory activities with your soon-to-be walker!

          https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzeeF0v_y2s

          12-18 Month Sensory Play Activities

          At this age, your child wants to be more independent and their brain has been doubling in size since birth! Since everything is new to them, you don't need anything fancy to keep them entertained -- you can create fun sensory activities with simple household items. Here are some ways to stimulate all of that learning and growing that their minds are doing!

            Sensory play for toddlers and babies is fun for the whole family!

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