Sensory Activities for Babies

Looking for engaging sensory activities designed specifically for babies? At this age (0-12 months), children are developing sensory exploration and tummy time, making it the perfect time to introduce sensory activities that match their abilities.

Sensory Activities Ideas for Babies

Here are our top picks, adapted for the high-contrast, simple shapes level appropriate for this age group:

Texture Boards

Touch and feel different materials like sandpaper, velvet, and bubble wrap. For babies, keep the complexity high-contrast, simple shapes and expect about 2-5 minutes of focused engagement.

Shaving Cream Play

Spread shaving cream on a tray for drawing and sensory exploration. For babies, keep the complexity high-contrast, simple shapes and expect about 2-5 minutes of focused engagement.

Scented Exploration

Sniff and identify spices, flowers, and extracts in jars. For babies, keep the complexity high-contrast, simple shapes and expect about 2-5 minutes of focused engagement.

Sensory Bin Exploration

Fill bins with rice, pasta, beans, or water beads for scooping and pouring. For babies, keep the complexity high-contrast, simple shapes and expect about 2-5 minutes of focused engagement.

Finger Painting

Explore colors and textures through mess-free or traditional finger paint. For babies, keep the complexity high-contrast, simple shapes and expect about 2-5 minutes of focused engagement.

Playdough Creations

Mold, squish, and shape homemade or store-bought playdough. For babies, keep the complexity high-contrast, simple shapes and expect about 2-5 minutes of focused engagement.

Tips for Parents of Babies

• Take photos of finished work to create a portfolio of their progress.
• Keep sessions to about 2-5 minutes to match their natural attention span.
• Rotate activities regularly to prevent boredom and stimulate new skills.
• Make it social by doing the activity alongside your child.
• Follow your child’s lead and let them choose which activities interest them most.

How to Get Started

1. Choose an activity from the ideas above that matches your child’s interests.
2. Gather materials listed in the activity description.
3. Set up a workspace that’s comfortable and easy to clean.
4. Guide your child through the activity, offering help when needed.
5. Display or save their work to encourage pride in their accomplishments.