Sensory Art Exploration
To develop sensory awareness and early mark-making through safe art exploration.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Expressive Arts & Design
- Learning area: Expressive Arts and Design
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Explores materials with hands (and mouth if safe)
- Shows interest in making marks
- Responds to different textures
- Notices colours and contrasts
Materials
- Edible finger paint (made from yoghurt and food colouring)
- Taste-safe playdough (made with flour and water)
- Textured papers and fabrics
- Large trays for contained exploration
Instructions
Prepare a safe, contained space for messy exploration. Lay down plastic sheets and use high-sided trays to keep materials in one area. Dress babies in clothes that can get messy or use full-coverage aprons.
Introduce materials one at a time to avoid overwhelming babies. 'Look at this squishy paint! It's cold and gooey!' Place a small amount on the tray and let the baby approach at their own pace.
Stay close and engaged but avoid directing. Narrate what you observe: 'You're pushing it with your fingers! Look at the marks you're making!' Let the baby lead their exploration.
Model exploration without taking over. Touch the materials yourself, showing curiosity: 'I'm going to squish it in my hand—squish, squish!' Babies often imitate adults' actions.
Celebrate all marks and creations. 'You made lines with your fingers! And here's where you pushed your palm—a handprint!' Take photos to document and share with families.
Watch for signs of readiness to stop—some babies love messy play, others tolerate it briefly. Always follow the baby's cues and never force continued engagement.