Sensorial toys: why they are so important for your child's development

Sensory toys – also called sensory toys – are becoming increasingly popular among parents, grandparents, and caregivers. But what exactly is sensory toy, why is it so important for babies and toddlers, and which toys are suitable for which age? In this blog, you will discover everything you need to know.

What are sensory toys?

Sensory toys are toys that stimulate children's senses. Think of touch, hearing, sight, smell, and taste. By experimenting playfully with materials, textures, colors, and sounds, children gradually discover the world around them.

Examples of sensory toys include:

• Teething toys with different textures

• Rattles and musical instruments

• Sand and water toys

• Activity cubes
• Kinetic sand
• Play rice

The benefits of sensory toys

Sensory toys are more than just fun to play with. They have numerous benefits for your child's development:

1. Motor skills
   By grabbing, pushing, kneading, or squeezing, children practice their fine and gross motor skills.

2. Language development
   Children learn new words by naming what they feel, hear, or see.

3. Concentration & focus
   Sensory toys help children concentrate and process stimuli better.

4. Creativity & problem-solving thinking
   Through free play, children are challenged to try new things and find solutions on their own.

5. Calm & relaxation
   For children who get overstimulated quickly, sensory toys can also have a calming effect.

From what age are sensory toys suitable?

Sensory toys exist for different ages:

• Babies (0-12 months): soft cuddly toys, teething rings, rattles, play mats.

• Toddlers (1-3 years): shape sorters, kinetic sand.

• Preschoolers (3-6 years): clay, kinetic sand, play rice.

This way, sensory toys grow with your child and continue to offer new stimuli.

Tips for choosing sensory toys

• Choose safe materials suitable for your child's age.

• Go for different textures: soft, smooth, rough, flexible.

• Ensure variety in stimuli: not just touch, but also hearing, sight, and smell.

• Consider your child's interests – not every child likes the same things.

Frequently asked questions about sensory toys

Are sensory toys suitable for every age?
Yes, but the type of toy varies by developmental stage. Babies benefit from soft materials, while toddlers and preschoolers need more challenge.

Do sensory toys help children with sensory sensitivity?
Absolutely. They can provide calm and focus, provided the toys are chosen carefully.

Conclusion

Sensory toys are indispensable for the development of babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. They stimulate motor skills, language, concentration, and creativity, and help children discover their senses through play.

At Milk Bar, you will find a wide selection of sustainable, stylish, and educational sensory toys that perfectly meet your child's needs. You can find them here on our website and in our store.