Winter often brings cosy mornings, rainy afternoons, and plenty of time spent indoors. While it’s tempting to reach for screens when cabin fever sets in, there are plenty of simple activities that can keep children entertained while supporting their development.
One of the best ways to encourage learning through play is with sensory activities.
Sensory play gives children opportunities to explore the world through touch, movement, sound, sight, smell, and even taste. More importantly, it helps develop the skills they use every day—from emotional regulation and concentration to fine motor skills, coordination, creativity, and problem-solving.
The best part? Many sensory activities require very little preparation and can be created using items you already have around the house.
Why Sensory Play Matters
Children learn best through hands-on experiences.
Sensory play supports the development of:
- Fine motor skills
- Gross motor coordination
- Language and communication
- Problem-solving
- Creativity and imagination
- Emotional regulation
- Attention and concentration
- Body awareness
For many children, sensory experiences can also be calming, helping them regulate their emotions after a busy day at school or during long periods indoors.
1. Create a Sensory Bin
Sensory bins are easy to set up and can provide endless opportunities for exploration.
Try filling a container with:
- Rice
- Pasta
- Oats
- Dried beans
- Pom-poms
- Kinetic sand
Add scoops, cups, toy animals, small vehicles, or alphabet letters for children to discover as they play.
Changing the theme—such as dinosaurs, construction, or the ocean—can keep children engaged for longer.
2. Play Dough Adventures
Play dough is a fantastic way to strengthen little hands while encouraging creativity.
Invite your child to:
- Roll snakes
- Cut shapes
- Build animals
- Make pretend food
- Hide small objects for a treasure hunt
For extra sensory fun, add scents such as cinnamon, vanilla, or peppermint.
3. Build an Indoor Obstacle Course
Who says you need sunshine to stay active?
Use cushions, blankets, masking tape, chairs, and tunnels to create an obstacle course that encourages children to:
- Crawl
- Jump
- Balance
- Climb
- Roll
Obstacle courses support coordination, motor planning, body awareness, and confidence—all while burning off winter energy.
4. Water Play (Without the Stress)
A shallow tub of warm water can provide hours of sensory fun.
Add:
- Measuring cups
- Funnels
- Plastic containers
- Floating toys
- Sponges
Place towels underneath to catch splashes and let your child explore.
5. Bubble Wrap Fun
Instead of throwing bubble wrap away, turn it into a sensory activity.
Children can:
- Pop bubbles with their fingers
- Walk across it
- Crawl over it
- Dance on it
This simple activity provides wonderful tactile and movement input.
6. Make Music and Move
Movement is one of the most effective ways to support regulation.
Try:
- Dance parties
- Musical statues
- Freeze dance
- Ribbon dancing
- Balloon volleyball
These activities improve coordination while helping children release energy in a positive way.
7. Create a Cosy Reading Corner
Sensory experiences don’t always have to involve movement.
Build a calm reading space using:
- Blankets
- Cushions
- Soft lighting
- Favourite books
- Soft toys
Sharing stories together encourages language development while creating opportunities for connection and relaxation.
8. Finger Painting and Messy Art
Messy play encourages creativity while providing valuable tactile experiences.
Try using:
- Finger paint
- Shaving foam
- Coloured yoghurt
- Homemade edible paint
- Large sheets of paper
Remember—the process is far more important than the finished artwork.
9. Kitchen Helpers
Cooking is full of sensory learning opportunities.
Invite your child to:
- Stir ingredients
- Pour liquids
- Knead dough
- Wash vegetables
- Measure ingredients
Cooking naturally develops fine motor skills, sequencing, attention, and independence.
10. Build a Cubby House
Blankets over chairs instantly become magical spaces.
Children can use cubbies for:
- Reading
- Pretend play
- Quiet time
- Board games
- Storytelling
Creating their own little space encourages imagination while offering a calming retreat when they need a break.
Follow Your Child’s Lead
Every child experiences sensory input differently.
Some children seek movement and active play, while others prefer quieter tactile experiences. Some enjoy getting messy, while others may prefer activities that involve building, sorting, or creating.
There is no right or wrong way to explore sensory play.
The most valuable activity is one that your child enjoys and wants to come back to again and again.
How Occupational Therapy Can Help
At The Therapy Network (TTN), our Occupational Therapists use sensory-based strategies to support children’s participation in everyday life.
Sensory play can help children develop:
- Emotional regulation
- Fine and gross motor skills
- Attention and concentration
- Confidence
- Independence
- Social play skills
- Participation at home, school, and in the community
Every child has unique sensory preferences, and understanding these can make everyday routines easier and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to mean boredom or endless screen time.
Simple sensory activities can transform an ordinary afternoon into an opportunity for learning, movement, creativity, and connection.
Whether it’s building an obstacle course, creating a sensory bin, or simply dancing around the lounge room, these experiences help children build important developmental skills while having fun.
At The Therapy Network, we believe that some of the best learning happens through play. If you’d like to learn more about how sensory play can support your child’s development, our Occupational Therapists are here to help your family discover practical strategies that fit naturally into everyday life.
