Who this is for
This course is aimed at anyone working in an early years setting — whether that is a nursery, preschool, daycare, or Key Stage One classroom. It suits those who are new to sensory play as well as those looking for fresh ideas and a bit more structure. If you want to offer richer sensory experiences but are not sure where to begin, this is a good starting point.
What you'll learn
An introduction to the benefits of sensory play for child development
Ideas for themes, tuff trays, and how to lay out sessions
Movement activities and calm area suggestions
Guidance on fitting sensory play into the curriculum
Downloadable PowerPoint and PDFs to keep and refer back to
Messy play and sensory play idea sheets included
About this course
Sensory play is a brilliant part of early childhood, but knowing where to start — or how to structure it well — can feel overwhelming. This course walks you through the benefits of sensory play for child development and gives you a clear picture of how to bring it into your setting with confidence.
You will find ideas for tuff trays, themes, movement activities, and calm areas, as well as guidance on how to lay out and plan your sessions. There is also a look at how sensory play can sit within the curriculum, so it feels like a natural part of what you already do.
The course comes with downloadable resources including a PowerPoint and PDFs covering messy play ideas, sensory play ideas, and more — things you can keep and come back to.
Curriculum
1 module — unlocks in order as you complete each one.
- 1Video
Introduction to Sensory Play for The Early Years
Your instructor
Grace Magennis
Grace Magennis is a Children's Occupational Therapist, Sensory Integration Practitioner, and founder of The Sensory Submarine. With extensive postgraduate training and specialist experience, Grace supports autistic children and young people, those with ADHD, developmental delay, physical and learning disabilities, sensory processing differences, and a wide range of additional needs. Her practical, evidence-based and neuroaffirming approach equips parents, educators and professionals with simple, effective strategies to support children's development, regulation, learning and participation in everyday life.