5 Sensory-Friendly Hobbies to Do With Your Child
It goes without saying that individuals who experience sensory processing issues require special care in their day-to-day activities. If you’re the parent of a child who is on the spectrum or experiences a sensory processing disorder, it’s important to help them establish hobbies that are both engaging and sensory-friendly.
Read on to explore different kinds of sensory-friendly hobbies to do with your child and how they can positively impact their development in the long term.
Model Trains
Model railroads allow you to engineer a hands-on experience that engages creativity and learning. The intricate detail of model trains and the scenic routes you build them on also help your child develop critical thinking and fine motor skills.
Jumping Play
It’s common for children who experience sensory issues to require space to move and stay active. If your child doesn’t express interest in sports, consider jumping activities. Using a jump rope or bouncing on a trampoline allows your child to release energy and stimulate movement.
Home Baking
There’s a variety of textures, colors, and aromas for your child to experience during baking. The process of baking also provides hands-on materials, like kneading dough, for your child to experience. Baking together also gives your child the rewarding opportunity to assist you with measuring ingredients and enjoying the finished product.
Sandbox Art
If your child has a particular sense about textures, a safe hobby to introduce is sand play. The sandbox provides the opportunity for hands-on creativity and to engage with different textures and outdoor elements. Consider investing in a sandbox or just a sand table to give your little one the opportunity to build structures, experiment with different textures, and utilize sandbox toys.
Plant a Garden
One of the most sensory-friendly hobbies to do with your child is planting a garden. Whether you’re gardening on the windowsill or in the backyard, the gardening process includes a wide variety of sensory benefits like digging, seed sorting, and watering. Being outdoors also gives your child the opportunity to associate with different scents, textures, and visuals while planting something rewarding.
