Sensory Play

Sensory play at Oxford Greens Early Education Centre is a cornerstone of the early childhood curriculum, designed to foster holistic development through rich, multi-sensory experiences. This approach aligns with the principles of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) by engaging children's senses—touch, sight, sound, taste, and smell—in activities that support their cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Sensory play is thoughtfully integrated into the daily routines and learning environments to provide children with opportunities to explore and understand the world around them in a hands-on and interactive manner.

The centre offers a diverse array of sensory activities that cater to various developmental stages and interests. For instance, sensory tables filled with materials like sand, water, and textured fabrics encourage children to experiment with different textures and sensations. These activities not only stimulate sensory exploration but also support fine motor skill development as children scoop, pour, and manipulate materials. Similarly, sensory bins containing items such as dried beans, rice, or pasta provide opportunities for creative play and sensory discovery, fostering both cognitive and physical skills.

In addition to the tactile experiences, the sensory play program includes auditory and visual components that enhance children's sensory integration. Music and sound activities, such as playing musical instruments or listening to different types of music, help children develop auditory discrimination and rhythm. Visual sensory play is supported through activities like color mixing, light tables, and nature observations, which encourage children to explore and understand visual stimuli. By incorporating these varied sensory experiences, the program helps children build a comprehensive understanding of their sensory world and how it influences their learning.

Educators at Oxford Greens Early Education Centre play a crucial role in facilitating sensory play by setting up engaging and stimulating environments and guiding children through exploratory activities. They observe and interact with children to tailor sensory experiences to individual needs and interests, ensuring that each child can engage meaningfully with the materials. Through these interactions, educators also support children in developing language skills as they describe their sensory experiences and learn new vocabulary related to textures, sounds, and colors.

Overall, sensory play at Oxford Greens Early Education Centre is designed to create a rich, multi-sensory learning environment that supports early development in a comprehensive manner. By integrating diverse sensory experiences into the curriculum, the centre aligns with EYLF principles and provides children with the tools and opportunities to explore, learn, and grow through active, hands-on engagement with their surroundings.