The Power of Sensory Play in Alternative Provision

One of the most rewarding aspects of working in alternative provision is the opportunity to support learners with a wide range of individual needs. Recently, I have been working closely with a learner with heightened sensory needs, and through guidance and training from their Occupational Therapist, I have developed a much deeper understanding of sensory integration and how we can support learners in this area.

Sensory integration is something we all do naturally. Our brains are constantly taking in information from our senses and helping us make sense of the world around us so that we can participate in everyday activities. For some children, however, sensory processing can be more challenging. These children may benefit from additional support and regular opportunities to engage in rich sensory experiences that help them feel comfortable, regulated and engaged in daily life.

Touch and Smell

The sense of touch can be particularly significant for many children with SEND. I have found that introducing a range of different textures and materials in a safe, playful environment can be incredibly effective in providing valuable sensory feedback. One activity that has been particularly successful is making 'gloop' using cornflour and water. The unusual texture is fascinating to explore and often feels completely different from anything a child has experienced before.

Another favourite has been making cloud dough using cornflour and hair conditioner. This activity provides plenty of opportunities for learners to squish, squeeze, mould and manipulate the dough while enjoying its smooth, silky texture. Cornflour has become a staple in my teaching bag due to its versatility and the wide range of sensory experiences it can create.

Other useful resources for sensory play include shaving foam, hair gel, kinetic sand, playdough, coloured rice, water beads (used safely and with appropriate supervision), dried pasta, oats and natural materials such as leaves, sticks and pinecones. These simple resources can create engaging opportunities for sensory exploration while encouraging communication and curiosity.

Encouraging my student to actively use her senses and reflect on the sensory experiences she is having in a safe and supportive environment has been incredibly valuable. One activity that worked especially well was creating smell jars. I used five small jars containing cotton wool soaked in different scents, including peppermint, vanilla and coffee. As she explored each fragrance, she was encouraged to describe what she could smell and how it made her feel. This not only sparked curiosity but also supported the development of her descriptive language, with her using words such as "sweet", "strong", "spicy" and "refreshing".

Similarly, using a blindfold and a collection of feely bags proved to be a fantastic way of exploring the sense of touch. By placing objects with contrasting textures inside the bags, such as feathers, pinecones, smooth stones and fabric, my student was encouraged to use descriptive language and think carefully about the sensory information she was receiving.

Taste Experiences

Food can also be a complex sensory experience for many children. One particularly successful session involved a "mindful mouthful" activity, where my student explored a variety of fruits with different textures, tastes and shapes. By encouraging her to close her eyes and focus solely on what she could feel and taste inside her mouth, she was able to concentrate fully on the sensory feedback she was experiencing. This provided a gentle and supportive way to explore new sensations and develop greater awareness of her sensory preferences.

Using the Outdoor Environment

We have also made the most of the outdoor environment. Creating a sensory pathway in the garden allowed her to experience a range of textures underfoot, including grass, concrete, soil, stones and wooden decking. As she walked along the pathway, we discussed how each surface felt and which she preferred. This simple activity generated meaningful conversations while encouraging movement, exploration and sensory awareness.

I have thoroughly enjoyed thinking creatively when planning and delivering sensory sessions. Seeing my student become more confident, curious and engaged through these experiences has been incredibly rewarding. Sensory opportunities can be for children of all ages, not just younger learners. It also does not need to be complicated or expensive; often, the simplest activities can have the greatest impact. By creating safe opportunities for children to explore, describe and reflect on their sensory experiences, we can help them develop confidence, communication skills and a greater understanding of the world around them.

By Grace Abraham, AP Tutor and Co-Ordinator