Sensory play is an important part of early childhood development and there are many activities that you create yourself.
One of our absolute favourites is Rainbow Spaghetti. Whether it's the vibrant colours or the slimy texture of the spaghetti as it slips through their hands.. the kids love it!!
What you will need for your ingredients:
1 packet of dried spaghetti (fully cooked and drained)
Food colouring in as many different colours as you like
1-2 tbsp cooking oil
Resealable plastic bags
Containers for each of the food colouring colours
1 large container
How to make it:
Cook the spaghetti normally and allow to cool
Divide into the resealable bags ie one bag per colour
Add a few drops of each colour to the bags and a little drop of oil this will prevent the spaghetti becoming sticky
Seal the bags and shake until the spaghetti is even
Allow them to sit for 15 minutes to dry out then rinse under cold water
Then divide into containers one colour per container
Exploring the Rainbow
First we allow the children to just explore each colour with their hands, utensils and encourage them to feel the texture and discuss what they are thinking.
Then we let their imaginations go wild!! We add small animals, cars or any small toys that they like to create different ideas to enhance play.
Often we use the spaghetti with child proof scissors and they draw faces on paper then create different hair styles.
Playing with the rainbow spaghetti helps to develop fine motor skills as well as creativity.