At Sonas, we having been doing lots of Summer activities.
Children were drawn to the bug-themed tuff tray filled with natural materials such as leaves and flowers. They explored the textures using their hands and were introduced to tweezers for grasping and transferring items. Some children attempted to pinch and lift the materials, while others preferred to feel, scrunch, and mouth the resources. Educators supported the play by modelling gentle use of tweezers and naming the natural items.
Fishing in Shredded Paper
Children engaged with the fishing activity by reaching into the shredded paper and searching for hidden objects. They used grasping and pulling motions to retrieve items, showing excitement when objects were discovered. This activity encouraged children to persist, repeat actions, and explore cause and effect as items were revealed through movement.
Beach Tuff Tray (Rice Sensory Play)
The beach-themed tuff tray invited children to explore dry rice using their hands, scoops and containers. Children poured, squeezed and let the rice fall through their fingers. Some filled containers repeatedly, while others focused on the sound and feel of the rice. Educators introduced simple language supporting early communication.
Sunny Setup Using Rice
The sunny-themed setup created a warm, inviting sensory experience. Children engaged calmly, showing sustained attention as they explored the rice with both hands. The brightness of the setup reflected a summer atmosphere and supported sensory regulation, with children appearing relaxed and focused throughout the experience.
Analysis
These summer-themed experiences supported sensory exploration, fine motor development, and curiosity in babies. The use of natural and open-ended materials allowed children to explore at their own pace, aligning with developmentally appropriate practice.
- The bug tuff tray supported early hand–eye coordination and emerging fine motor skills through the use of tweezers, while also encouraging sensory awareness of natural materials.
- The fishing in shredded paper promoted problem-solving, persistence and cause-and-effect learning, key components of cognitive development in infancy.
- The beach and sunny rice trays provided rich tactile experiences that supported sensory integration and emotional regulation, particularly important in the Baby Play Lab environment.