Sensory toys are designed to engage one or more of a child’s sensory systems—touch, sight, sound, balance and body awareness. These experiences support how young children interpret their environment, regulate their emotions and develop foundational motor and cognitive skills. This guide explains the purpose behind sensory toys, how they aid development, and how to choose options suited to your child’s age.
If you’d like to explore examples while you read, you can browse our Sensory Toys Collection here:
https://childhoodtrove.com/collections/sensory-toys
What Is Sensory Play?
Sensory play involves activities that allow children to explore using their senses. It supports the organisation of sensory information, helping the brain form and strengthen neural connections.
The main sensory systems involved include:
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Touch
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Sight
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Hearing
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Smell
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Taste
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Vestibular (movement and balance)
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Proprioception (awareness of body position and pressure)
Engaging these systems through play supports early learning in ways that screens and passive toys cannot.
How Sensory Toys Support Development
Sensory toys may help support:
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Fine motor skills and hand strengthening
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Hand–eye coordination
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Calm focus and self-regulation
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Problem-solving and cause-and-effect learning
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Curiosity and exploratory behaviour
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Language development through descriptive play
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Body awareness and movement planning
These benefits are particularly important from birth to five years, when sensory pathways develop rapidly.
If you’re interested in toys that also support sensory-based exploration through independent play, our Montessori Toys Collection can be a helpful complement:
https://childhoodtrove.com.au/collections/montessori-toys
Sensory Toys by Age
0–12 Months: Gentle Sensory Introduction
Babies benefit from toys that offer soft textures, simple sounds and clear visual contrast.
Recommended options include:
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Soft rattles
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Crinkle fabrics
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Silicone teethers
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High-contrast cards
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Light movement toys (supervised use)
Development focus: reaching, grasping, tracking and visual engagement.
1–3 Years: Movement and Early Problem-Solving
Toddlers enjoy sensory experiences that involve action and response.
Recommended options include:
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Sensory balls
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Press-and-pop toys
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Stackers
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Water-play tools
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Textured puzzles
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Simple mechanical toys
Development focus: coordination, simple logic and sensory exploration.
You can explore sensory toys suitable for toddlers here:
https://childhoodtrove.com/collections/sensory-toys
3–5 Years: Multi-Sensory Learning
At this stage, children benefit from richer sensory activities with more complexity.
Recommended options include:
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Kinetic sand
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Sensory bins
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Fine motor tools (tongs, scoops, twist tools)
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Early STEM toys
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Light and pattern boards
Development focus: early maths, sequencing, reasoning and school readiness.
Types of Sensory Toys
Tactile Toys
Textures and materials that encourage exploration and fine motor refinement.
Visual Sensory Toys
Colours, patterns and gentle lights that help develop visual tracking and attention.
Auditory Toys
Simple sound-based exploration through tapping, shaking or music.
Movement Toys
Items that encourage rolling, pushing, spinning or balancing.
Proprioceptive Toys
Toys that offer resistance or weight to support body awareness.
Choosing Sensory Toys Safely in Australia
When selecting sensory toys, look for options that:
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Meet AS/NZS ISO 8124 safety standards
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Are labelled appropriately for age
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Avoid small parts for under-3s
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Are made from non-toxic, child-safe materials
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Include smooth edges and secure fittings
Always supervise water play and any light-up toys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do sensory toys help with emotional regulation?
For some children, tactile or movement-based play can support calm focus. Each child has unique sensory preferences, so it helps to observe what works best for them.
How often should children engage in sensory play?
Short, regular sessions—often five to ten minutes for toddlers—provide meaningful developmental support without overwhelming them.
What do I need to set up a simple sensory activity at home?
A shallow container, a safe filler (such as water, rice or pasta) and a few scoops or cups are enough for valuable sensory exploration.
Explore More Sensory Play Options
If you’d like to explore age-appropriate sensory toys, you can browse our Sensory Toys Collection here:
https://childhoodtrove.com/collections/sensory-toys
Sensory toys offer children structured opportunities to explore the world through touch, movement and visual engagement. By selecting safe, age-appropriate materials, families can support fine motor development, early problem-solving and emotional regulation. Sensory play doesn’t require complex setups—just thoughtful tools and consistent, gentle experiences that allow children to learn at their own pace.
