The sensory table is an excellent resource for students to learn and explore thru play. While there are many different sensory table fillers, this sensory foam is unique. Something about the fluffy texture calls children back to the table over and over again – they can’t get enough, which is great because when they are playing at the sensory table, they are learning!
Why Sensory Foam?
This foam is soft and dry, which makes it a unique sensory experience for students. It does come with an age recommendation for ages three and up. It is similar to Kinetic Sand as it flows through the fingers like a liquid but holds a form when squeezed. After the pressure lifts, the form slowly collapses. It doesn’t dry out and is relatively easy to clean up.
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Preschool Science Centers – Opposites Unit 3
$14.70Discover the properties of matter in this unit. Is it soft or hard, heavy or light, quiet or loud? Young scientists will practice sorting and categorizing. Each of the 6 lessons is carefully planned for you and includes: a supply list, learning objectives, lesson ideas, photos and activities, book suggestions, and a journal page.
Where to find Sensory Foam?
This fluffy foam is available through Discount School Supply. Two tubs put a nice layer in the bottom of the sensory bin. Different shades can be made by mixing the five available colors. Smaller amounts are outstanding for a calm-down corner, as the sensory foam is remarkably soothing to play with.
Sensory Table Fun
Of course, the foam is fun to play with on its own. Add to the educational power by adding different props to encourage the students to enjoy the center even more!
- For fine motor skills, the simple act of squishing and releasing the foam is a great fine-motor muscle workout. But so is searching for and picking up small toys hidden in the sensory foam. Add tongs for even more benefits.
- Literacy skills get a boost when alphabet toys, name cards, or even simple alphabet magnets are incorporated into the mix.
- Focus on early math skills by encouraging students to count the number of different items in the sensory bin as they find them or sort them by color, shape, or size!
- Provide different-sized containers so students use their early science skills to explore volume, gravity, and more!
- While playing at the sensory table, students work on cooperative play skills such as sharing and taking turns with different supplies.
- A sensory table is also a fantastic place for conversations and imaginative play!
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Play Dough is the perfect tool for developing the hand strength and fine motor muscles necessary before young children are able to write!
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Additional Resources
- NAEYC has an enlightening article about sand and water play found here.
- This article by Jurassic Sands provides more in-depth information about the importance of sensory play.