Finding Joy Through the Senses
Posted by Dr. Yvette Evans, Ed.D., M.S., SLP-L on Aug 28th 2024
Finding moments of happiness and peace can be difficult in our busy lives. Adults often overlook the small things that can bring joy. However, experiencing joy is crucial for children's emotional health and growth.
One effective way to bring joy to children is through their senses—sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. These senses help children understand and enjoy the world around them. By engaging their senses in fun and meaningful ways, we can create lasting memories and moments of happiness.
What is Sensory Integration?
Sensory integration is how we organize information from our senses to understand our environment and ourselves. Interaction with different sensory experiences helps children build essential skills like problem-solving, communication, and self-control.
Simple Sensory Activities
Incorporate sensory activities into your daily routine, such as after breakfast or before bed. Set up a sensory bin filled with items your child enjoys. For example, you might include:
- Scented crayons for coloring: They add a pleasant smell to the experience.
- Bubble popping: It can be relaxing and fun.
- Texture play: Sand, water, or rice in a sensory bin for touching and playing.
Joy Through Touch and Movement
Touch is another way to spark joy. Let children explore different textures with their hands, such as in a sensory bin.
Music and movement are also great for creating happiness. Music can stir emotions and memories, and dancing to it can be joyful. Please encourage your child to sing, dance, or play musical instruments to help them connect with their feelings in fun ways.
Exploring Taste and Smell
Taste and smell are strong senses that can bring back memories and emotions. Introduce children to new foods and smells to help them enjoy new experiences. Cooking or baking together can be fun for exploring different flavors and creating unique and possibly lasting memories.
Conclusion
Engaging children’s senses in enjoyable activities is a powerful way to foster happiness and emotional well-being. By exploring the world through sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, we can help children build joyful experiences that may last a lifetime. So, let’s make time to discover and enjoy these sensory moments with our children!
Thank you,
Dr. Yvette Evans, Ed.D., M.S., SLP-L
Member of the Board of Directors
Hope for Children Foundation