Sensory Play
Play is the very foundation of learning and development. For children, playtime is more than a respite from daily routines; it forms the essence of their growth and education.
What is a Sensory Play Zone?
Experts estimate that 75% of a child's brain development occurs after birth, emphasizing the critical role of early years in shaping observational and critical thinking skills, which are pivotal for reading, writing, and future success.
Which Senses are Impacted?
The human brain leverages seven senses—sight, touch, taste, smell, sound, vestibular, and proprioceptive—to construct experiences and cultivate cognitive abilities. Sensory play transcends mere touch-based activities; it encompasses age-appropriate engagements that encourage children to explore their surroundings, invoking one or more of these senses:
Sight:
Kids encounter a vibrant world of colors, shapes, and patterns, igniting their visual sense.
Touch:
They explore different textures, temperatures, and vibrations, unraveling the mysteries of the world through their fingertips.
Taste:
Children develop a palate, distinguishing between sweet, salty, sour, and bitter flavors as they munch on snacks between playful adventures.
Smell:
They identify and associate various scents with different activities, from the scent of fresh play equipment to the aroma of treats.
Sound:
Their ears capture a symphony of auditory inputs, enhancing their sensory journey with playful noisemakers and cheerful laughter.
Vestibular:
Kids enhance their awareness of body position, balance, and movement as they swing, climb, and twirl through the playground.
Proprioceptive:
They refine their body awareness, allowing them to effectively use their limbs and navigate the exciting playground environment.
What Areas of Development are Helped by Sensory Play at Khovd Soft Play?
The interplay of sensory play and cognitive development within an indoor playground is profound. Cognitive development involves the processing of information, problem-solving, and honing critical thinking skills. Fostering a child's cognitive abilities through sensory play in the indoor playground equips their young minds with the essential tools for growth, learning, and overall development.
Language Development:
Children are encouraged to express themselves, share stories, and communicate their emotions through imaginative play with friends in this dynamic environment.
Gross Motor Skill Development:
As they bounce, leap, and navigate obstacle courses, children naturally build the muscles needed for activities like jumping and walking.
Fine Motor Skill Development:
Engaging in arts and crafts, coloring, and building with toys enhances the strength and dexterity of hand and arm muscles, setting the stage for tasks like writing.
Stronger Brain Connections:
Amid the sensory-rich playground setting, children learn to filter sensory experiences, honing their ability to focus on what's most relevant, a skill that extends into other aspects of their development.
Improved Social Development:
Interaction with peers, sharing exciting moments on slides or swings, and collaborating in imaginative adventures all foster communication and social skills.
Enhanced Problem-Solving Abilities:
As they engage in diverse activities, children are prompted to think critically, find creative solutions, and adapt to ever-changing play scenarios.
Better Self-Calming Skills:
The immersive sensory experiences in the playground help children regulate their energy levels and manage emotions, providing a calming outlet when needed.
Boosted Creativity:
In this playground, kids have the freedom to experiment with various textures, sights, sounds, tastes, and movements, fostering their creativity and broadening their understanding of the world.
Greater Awareness:
As they navigate this space independently, children become more self-aware, promoting autonomy and individual expression in their playtime adventures.