Wednesday, May 13, 2015

What To Know About Sensory Activities For Infants

By Tammie Caldwell


A lot happens during the first months of life. Although infants grow and learn in different ways, sensory activities are said to be extremely beneficial for all. These can improve motor skills, be therapeutic, raise awareness and add to language acquisition. There are many sensory activities for infants that can improve their development during these important stages of life.

The initial interactions that infants have in the world are not centered on words or speech. Nonetheless, they are capable of gathering a lot of information through their other senses. Newborns are limited in their sight when they are young, but grow to have more clarity in their vision. They also start hearing sounds while in the womb and can identify the voice of their mother at birth. They will eventually learn the differences in tastes and smells, and will get comfort from gentle and warm touch.

Babies will naturally become more aware as they grow and mature. Sensory activities are usually effective because they aid in understanding language and improving vocabulary. Caregivers or parents should use words and questions that relate to the experience the baby is having while it plays. This will help link the sensory experience with cognitive growth. Words that show action and are descriptive should also be applied because they can help kids solidify word meanings.

Research has shown that this type of play can build nerve connections within the brain pathways, which allows the child to do complex learning tasks. It also supports motor skills, social interaction, language development, cognitive growth and problem-solving skills. This type of activity might be calming for frustrated or anxious children. It also helps children learn various attributes, such as dry, sticky, hot and cold.

Infants are not expected to have much mobility or dexterity, but this does not mean they cannot interact and learn. Babies may enjoy the feel of water in a pool or bath. They could like to feel the wind while on a walk or have a response to music that is played. As they age, they are expected to get involved in more activities that involve use of various materials and objects, as well as experiments with cause and effect.

To improve touch and sight, a baby could be placed in a soft blanket and have something billowed over their head or be given different objects to touch. Playing in water is, again, another beneficial activity. Adults may fill up a small bowl of water and let the baby sit and play in it. They might also like to use various scooping tools for further exploration. Feeling and tearing of wet paper sounds simple enough but makes a great sensory play activity for the young.

Many resources, online and offline, provide parents with examples of what can be done with this kind of play. It is best that these activities are introduced young and used throughout childhood to help with developments. Different types of play are recommended for the various age groups.

Infants and babies should not be allowed to play with small objects that could be swallowed, cause injury or be otherwise dangerous. Parents are encouraged to remain with them while they engage in this type of play so that they stay safe. Each child is different and may respond to this type of play in his or her own way.




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