A guide to sensory toys
Sensory toys are specially designed to stimulate one or more of the five senses - sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. These toys aim to provide children with a range of sensory experiences that are both fun and educational. They are particularly helpful for children who have difficulties with sensory processing, but they can benefit all children. At Bargain Max we have a great range of sensory items to aid child development. Read our guide to sensory toys to find out more and what we have to offer.
Sensory toys and emotions
Here at BargainMax we understand that sensory toys play a significant role in shaping children's emotional responses. They can be used as powerful tools for nurturing emotional intelligence when incorporated into play. The different sensory stimuli (tactile, visual, and auditory) provided by these toys create opportunities for children to recognise and identify different feelings.
For example, by squeezing a particular part of a toy, a child may learn to associate it with a specific sound. Playing with sensory toys can also be a social activity that encourages interaction and cooperation, where children learn to share and take turns, while observing others' reactions to sensory stimuli that fosters empathy and an understanding of how emotions can be experienced differently.
Communication
Sensory play can help children express their emotions in a way that they may find difficult to articulate verbally. This kind of play can offer caregivers and educators valuable insights into children's emotional experiences. Some kinds of sensory toys, such as those that require eye contact, gestures, or facial expressions, can aid in the development of non-verbal communication skills. Sensory toys can provide an enriching context for children to develop their communication skills.
Growing demand
The demand for sensory toys has grown significantly in recent years, driven by increased awareness of the importance of sensory play in child development. We recognise the comprehensive benefits of sensory play, and the market for sensory toys continues to grow and evolve at BargainMax we have a great range of sensory items to aid child development.
Sensory bottles
Sensory bottles are not only fun but also have educational benefits. They can be used in learning activities to teach concepts such as colours, counting, and cause and effect.
Benefits:
Visual stimulation: Sensory bottles offer attractive visual experiences that can be both calming and engaging.
Focus and attention: Watching the slow movement of materials inside the bottle can help children improve their focus and attention.
Self-soothing: Calming bottles are a helpful tool for self-soothing and regulating emotions.
The Express Your Feelings Sensory Bottles from Learning Resources are designed to help children identify and connect with their emotions. This set of four child-safe bottles is securely-sealed and offers children a quiet, self-directed, and tangible way to identify their feelings and express their emotions.
Each of the four bottles represents a unique emotion with an interactive element. The happy bottle is yellow, the sad bottle is blue, the scared bottle is green, and the angry bottle is red.
Children can swirl, shake, and rotate the bottles to see the motion and engage in quiet focus in a space such as a calm-down corner or talk about how they are feeling. The set comes with an activity guide that encourages children to explore their emotions and develop their emotional intelligence.
Sensory bottles offer a versatile and engaging tool for children's sensory play, providing both entertainment and developmental benefits.
Fidget toys
Fidget toys are a great way to promote concentration and reduce stress. They provide a tactile sensory experience that can be beneficial for those who struggle with focusing or need some help with fine motor skills.
The best fidget toys are designed to keep your hands busy while also developing your visual perception skills, colour and size discrimination, and tactile awareness. Additionally, sensory fidget toys can help reduce self-stimulatory behaviour and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Keep hands busy with our Neon Noodles Sensory Strings. Each of these large fidget tubes is covered in a variety of textured bumps and nobbles, making them super stretchy, fun, and irresistible.
Sensory toys for babies
Sensory toys play a crucial role in the development of babies by engaging their senses and promoting cognitive, motor, and social skills. Whether its tummy time mates, soft rattles or soft toys – textures, smells, lights and sounds can all stimulate your baby’s senses. Take a look at our CoComelon Sensory Set for babies. This sensory set is specifically designed to help babies explore their sense of touch, and in turn, develop their gross motor skills during their early years. It is an excellent activity for toddlers and babies alike and can also be used as a learning tool to help kids recognise objects. With the ability to bat, grab and enjoy sensory play, it provides a fun and engaging experience for young children.
More sensory toys to explore
Texture Balls - Balls with various textures, such as bumps, ridges, or soft spikes and can be rolled or squeezed. Why not try a large squidgy ball with sparkly confetti inside! We understand the need for various sensations and our squidgy ball provides tactile stimulation.
Water Beads - Colourful water beads that expand when soaked in water provide a soothing tactile experience. They can be used in sensory bins or trays.
Sensory Blocks - Blocks with different textures, colours, and patterns encourage exploration and stimulate the sense of touch. These Baby Shark ones are perfect for 18 months+.
Light-Up Toys - Toys that light up or change colours provide visual stimulation. This can include light-up balls, sensory lamps, or interactive light panels. Our Cocomelon LED Nightlight Projector is perfect as it’s a portable soothing night light that will also project stars and sheep onto the wall or ceiling.
Musical Instruments - Instruments like drums, shakers, and xylophones engage the sense of hearing and allow children to explore different sounds and rhythms.
Kinetic Sand - Kinetic sand is a mouldable and squishable material that provides a unique tactile experience. It can be moulded, squeezed, and shaped. Kinetic sand like this Sweet Scents, flows through your hands and never dries out, so you can play again and again. Mix Kinetic Sand Scents and create all-new scent and colour combinations!
Sensory Tunnels - Tunnels made of different textures (soft, crinkly, or bumpy) provide a tactile experience as children crawl through them.
Scented Playdough - Playdough infused with scents like lavender, vanilla, or citrus engages the sense of smell and provides a calming sensory experience. Or create some fun shapes with our Paw Patrol Dough.
Bubble Tubes - These tubes contain bubbles and colourful lights, creating a visually stimulating and calming effect. They are often used in sensory rooms.
Sensory Mats - Mats with various textures, like soft fabric, rough patches, or raised bumps, provide a tactile surface for exploration.
Chewable Jewelry - Necklaces or bracelets designed for chewing can provide oral sensory input for children who seek oral stimulation.
Balance Boards - Balance boards challenge children's vestibular system, helping with coordination and balance.
We understand how important sensory toys are to our customers. When choosing sensory toys, it's essential to consider the child's preferences and sensitivities. Additionally, always ensure that the toys are age-appropriate and safe for use. Children with specific sensory needs may benefit from consulting with an occupational therapist to identify the most suitable toys for their individual requirements.
Sensory toys, when used as part of playtime, can help develop emotional intelligence in children. These toys provide a range of sensory experiences that help children to become more aware of their emotions, express themselves better, regulate their emotions, and understand others.
