Language Development in Sensory-Rich Environments

From squishing playdough to exploring textures, sounds, and movement, sensory play is one of the most natural and powerful ways young children learn about the world. In the early years—especially from ages 1 to 4—children make sense of their environment through hands-on, sensory-rich experiences.

At Ducky’s Play and Development Centre, sensory play is thoughtfully embedded into daily learning. It supports not only curiosity and creativity, but also cognitive growth, emotional wellbeing, and the foundations for future learning.

What Is Sensory Play?

Sensory play involves activities that engage one or more of the senses—touch, sight, sound, smell, movement, and balance. These experiences allow children to explore, investigate, and experiment in ways that feel meaningful and enjoyable to them.

Examples of sensory play include:

• Water and sand play

• Exploring textures like soft, rough, wet, or smooth materials

• Music, sound, and rhythm activities

• Movement-based play that supports balance and coordination

For young children, sensory play is not separate from learning—it is learning.

Supporting Brain Development Through Sensory Experiences

During the early years, children’s brains develop rapidly as they interact with their environment. Sensory play helps build and strengthen neural connections by allowing children to actively engage with materials and experiences.

When children touch, move, listen, and explore, they are:

• Developing problem-solving and thinking skills

• Building memory and attention

• Learning cause and effect

Australian early childhood research consistently highlights that hands-on, sensory-rich play supports deeper learning than passive experiences. This approach aligns strongly with the EYLF’s focus on active, play-based learning.

Sensory Play and Emotional Regulation

Sensory experiences play an important role in helping children understand and manage their emotions. Activities such as water play, tactile materials, or calming sounds can help children feel grounded, relaxed, and secure.

For toddlers and preschoolers, sensory play can:

• Support self-regulation and emotional awareness

• Provide a safe outlet for big feelings

• Build resilience and confidence

These experiences directly support EYLF Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing, helping children feel safe, supported, and capable.

Developing Language and Communication Skills

Sensory play naturally encourages conversation and communication. As children explore materials, educators and peers can introduce descriptive language—talking about textures, temperatures, movements, and sounds.

Through sensory-rich play, children:

• Expand vocabulary

• Learn to express preferences and ideas

• Build confidence communicating with others

For children aged 1–4, these everyday interactions are essential building blocks for later literacy and communication skills.

Building Social Skills and Relationships

Many sensory activities are shared experiences, offering opportunities for children to play alongside others, take turns, and collaborate. Whether it’s group water play or exploring materials together, children learn valuable social skills through these moments.

Sensory play supports:

• Cooperation and turn-taking

• Empathy and awareness of others

• A sense of belonging within a group

This reflects EYLF Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world, reinforcing the importance of relationships and community in early learning.

Preparing Children for Future Learning

While sensory play is especially important in the early years, its benefits extend well into later childhood. Sensory experiences help children develop focus, persistence, and confidence—skills that support school readiness and lifelong learning.

For older toddlers and preschoolers, sensory play contributes to:

• Early numeracy and scientific thinking

• Fine and gross motor development

• Confidence to explore new challenges

At Ducky’s, we understand that strong foundations are built through meaningful experiences—not rushed outcomes.

Our Approach to Sensory Play at Ducky’s

Sensory play at Ducky’s is intentional, inclusive, and responsive to each child’s developmental stage. Educators observe children closely, adapting experiences to support individual interests, abilities, and needs.

This approach reflects the EYLF principles of:

• Secure, respectful, and reciprocal relationships

• Learning through play

• Intentional teaching and reflective practice

By creating rich sensory environments, we support children to explore, discover, and grow with confidence.