A sensory playground has elements that stimulate the senses, allowing kids to explore their surroundings more fully. It can be designed to appeal to all of the main sensory systems, with equipment ranging from spinning toys to touch-friendly sand areas and educational panels.

Kids learn sensory playground their senses, so the more they use them during play, the better. Sensory experiences also help develop other vital cognitive skills like memory, reasoning and problem-solving. Children who experience a sensory-rich environment are more likely to engage with others, making it important to provide inclusive playgrounds to encourage social interaction.

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Visual elements can include bright colors, moving parts and varying shapes that captivate a child’s attention. They may include things that emit sound, such as wind chimes or musical instruments. A sensory playground may also include equipment that helps a child understand their position in space, such as swings, roundabouts or climbing structures. Tactile playground equipment can include sand and water areas or anything that has a textured surface. It can even include interactive sand and water playground pieces that are wheelchair accessible.

When kids interact with peers during sensory playground experiences, they’re able to practice communication and teamwork skills. They’re able to collaborate with their friends, which helps them build friendships and make new connections. They can also experiment with creative play, imagining that the rocket-shaped structure they’re playing on is blasting off into space or practicing their music skills as they work together to perform an orchestra.