As parents, it is quite important to explore new and efficient learning techniques to help your little one with their personal development and will let them grow into capable (and cute) little human beings. National Institute of Health suggests that the things children learn during their early years have a lasting-effect on their intelligence, success and health. The different learning techniques and styles exposed to children determine whether they will fall in love with learning or dread it. This makes it very important to choose the right form of learning to help your child to master the art of learning.
But the question is, how do we get our kids to spend their time learning instead of playing? What if we told you that children can learn and play at the same time! Word on the street is that every cool mom is talking about sensory learning. So, what exactly is this trending topic ‘Sensory Learning’?
Sensory Learning is a learning technique, wherein, children engage all six of their senses and become aware of their surroundings. Engaging their senses - such as sight, smell, taste, feel, hear and kinesthesia – in a playful manner contributes to the development of their brain. It also encourages the way they interpret and comprehend things. It not only helps children become aware of their surroundings, it drives them to improve their scientific thinking, problem-solving skills, deal with challenges and enhance their memory. The building of nerve connections evokes curiosity in children. They get into a space of exploration and start to step into the role of being a creator.
When would be the right time to introduce sensory learning to your kids? The answer might shock you. Children have been indulging in sensory learning since the womb. Children play sensorial every single day. From learning to eat for the very first time to touching and feeling objects with their tiny fingers. The best time to expose your child to safe-sensory activities would be the first two years of their lives. This allows children to develop early.
Passing on some tips over to you: Create a sensory bin which includes elements from nature such as sand, colored rice to mimic grass, water, leaves, and rocks. The main idea is to keep it simple while also helping your child stay focused and calm through controllable tools. You may also consider giving them sensory toys like chewable straws to help them with their oral progress. An alternate solution could be through a few activities. This may include planting, taste testing, playing with musical instruments, using play-safe paint, mushing food, or even creating jumping games.
Other easy and fun DIY ideas: Consider adding cotton balls or sponges to the tub filled with water when it’s your child’s bath time. This is simple, inexpensive and quite entertaining for little minds. They are likely to be intrigued by the way these objects absorb water and release water once squeezed. Another fun idea could be ice-painting. Fill your ice-tray with tap water and mix it with liquid water color, and let it freeze for a few hours. Once frozen, take the tray outside and place it on a big white paper sheet. The heat outdoor would allow the ice to melt into beautiful colors as your child plays with it. There are a number of sensory activities you can introduce to your child with the items available in your house.
For children, this world is too big. It takes them quite some time to gain awareness of their own bodies and surrounding. Promoting a fun and insightful learning technique can make them feel like the world is in the palm of their hands. Allowing them to be a Creator boosts their confidence and encourages brain development. Sensory learning might just be the best way for parents to create little creators.
