Have your child tried sensory play before?
Sensory play refers to activities that allow children to experience the world through all five senses—touch, sight, hearing, smell, and movement. Through these sensory experiences, children naturally learn, discover, and grow.
In many countries, sensory play is widely used in early childhood and special education settings. Research and practice show that sensory experiences help develop concentration, social skills, creativity, and emotional regulation.
One of the most beautiful aspects of sensory play is its universality.
No matter the child’s age, language, or cultural background, sensory experiences are equally enjoyable. The feelings of joy, wonder, and excitement are universal. Even when languages differ, learning through the senses connects all children.
At YBS, we value this “universal growth.” By trusting their senses and fully engaging their bodies, children naturally develop confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning. The simple and universal experiences of joy and play are something every child can share—and children at YBS get to experience them every day.
Trusting Their Senses: How YBS Teachers Bring Sensory Play to Life
“Even children who don’t like getting their hands messy begin to enjoy themselves through sensory play.”
This is what one of our YBS teachers shared after working with a class of two-year-olds. In her previous class, six out of eight children disliked activities that made their hands dirty. For many of them, traditional craft activities simply weren’t enjoyable.
Instead of forcing children into activities they couldn’t fully enjoy, she wanted to start with something different—experiences that let them explore textures, colors, and sensations freely. That is how sensory play became part of the classroom.
In the beginning, the two- and three-year-olds would lose interest and wander off. But as they began exploring colors, textures, and changes in materials, something beautiful happened:
sensory play naturally evolved into pretend play.
Using real vegetables that families no longer needed, the children began “cooking” together. They sliced pretend foods, arranged dishes, and served meals with great pride. Some children focused for more than an hour—something that rarely happened in other activities!
Another strength of sensory play is its ability to build connections that go beyond language and culture. English, Japanese, different ages, different backgrounds—everyone simply mixes together and enjoys the experience as one group. The curiosity, creativity, and friendships that grow from these shared moments are a true strength of YBS.
Of course, there are moments where children need support or encouragement. But each time we ask, “How can we make this work?” and try together, children discover new possibilities. These shared challenges and successes become valuable memories and support children’s growth in profound ways.
Sensory play may look like just “fun and messy play,” but it is actually an essential experience that nurtures emotional development, sensory awareness, social interaction, and creativity.
And at YBS, we cherish an environment where every child—regardless of language or culture—can explore freely, learn joyfully, and grow without limits.