With the arrival of summer, many parents of young babies face a common challenge: providing enriching activities that combine stimulation, play and coolness without leaving the house. High temperatures, disrupted routines and the energy of this time of year can be unsettling. Hence the following question: how can we take advantage of these months to encourage their development with sensory games, without resorting to screens or unsuitable activities?
STIMULATION IN SUMMER IS ESSENTIAL (AND POSSIBLE)
While it may seem that the summer heat and rest limit learning opportunities, the reality is that the first years of life are key to sensory and emotional development. Babies learn by exploring the world through their senses. And, summer can be a perfect time to strengthen this stage at home.
In fact, according to the Spanish Association of Paediatrics (AEP), early stimulation favours the acquisition of cognitive, motor and social skills. In this sense, sensory games are a highly effective educational tool. This is because they help to develop perception of the environment, language and autonomy.
RECOMMENDED SENSORY GAMES TO DO IN CASE THIS SUMMER
Responding to the need for stimulation and fun in summer does not require large investments or travel. Below, we share a selection of sensory games especially recommended for babies from 0 to 3 years old. Each activity stimulates one or more senses and can be adapted according to the age of the child.
1. SENSE BOATS
Recommended age: from 6 months onwards
Senses worked on: sight, hearing, touch
Fill several transparent plastic jars with different materials (rice, lentils, pompoms, bells…) and let baby shake, observe or explore them under supervision. You can also decorate them with bright colours.
2. FROZEN SENSORY POUCHES
Recommended age: from 8 months
Senses worked on: touch, sight, proprioception.
Put safe objects in airtight bags (such as jelly with small plastic toys) and freeze them for a few hours. The contrast in temperature will surprise them and motivate their exploration.
3. SCENTED BATHS AND FLOATING TOYS
Recommended age: from 4 months
Senses worked: smell, touch, sight.
Add drops of mild essences (lavender or chamomile) to bath water and some floating toys. This relaxes and stimulates at the same time, creating a multi-sensory experience.
4. VERAN TREASURE BASKET
Recommended age: 10 months and older
Senses developed: all
Collect objects of different textures and shapes related to summer (sponges, spoons, shells, sand in bags, linen cloth…). Encourage them to touch, suck, smell and manipulate freely, always under supervision.
5. FINGER PAINT WITH NATURAL YOGHURT
Recommended age: from 12 months
Senses worked on: taste, touch, sight.
Place yoghurt in different containers and colour it with food colouring. Baby can “paint” on a safe tray or table, discovering colours, textures and flavours in a safe way.
This content has been developed by the International Private School Eurocolegio Casvi, in Villaviciosa de Odón, with activities based on proven methodologies. They should always be carried out under adult supervision.
CASVI VILLAVICIOSA, STIMULATION FROM THE EARLY YEARS ONWARDS
At Casvi Villaviciosa International School we work on sensory development from the earliest years. We do this with activities adapted to the pace and individual needs of each child. Through an approach based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) methodology, we encourage active learning, autonomy and natural curiosity from an early age.
For example, within our extracurricular activities, the Casvi Art School offers a space where children can continue to develop their imagination, expression and sensitivity through plastic and sensory activities. From painting to sculpture with natural materials, each proposal is designed to connect body and mind through the senses.
