Here are my top five list of sensory props for Springtime. Natural objects such as flowers, buds and leaves are great to use in Springtime sensory stories…but here are a few other things to try:
- Sheep (or lamb) noise-makers. There are a few different versions of this type of noise-maker which makes a ‘baa’ when it is turned over. I particularly like this one as it looks appropriate for a variety of ages.
2. These stretchy ‘noodles’ are great for conveying the idea of growth. Thread one end through the hole in the bottom of a plant pot, hold it firmly and then either pull the other end yourself (to make the plant ‘grow and grow’) or encourage the person you are playing/reading with to pull the other end. The green ones are best of course but unfortunately I haven’t found any shops that let you choose a particular colour.
3. Children love a surprise so why not hide a toy bird or some toy eggs in a woven nest box like this one – great for encouraging tactile exploration!
4. Seed packets make an interesting noise when you shake them – especially large seeds like beans.
Or if you’re worried about the packets getting ripped you could put seeds into tins – the kind with clear lids could be interesting visually. (Put a little tape around the lid so it can’t come off.)
5. Pass out these farmyard buzzers and add a little bit of chaotic fun to any farmyard story or activity!
Lastly I shouldn’t really be adding these to my list as I have not used them myself yet but I am very keen to try boba bubble tea bubbles as a prop for frogspawn in a springtime story! (Possibly kept inside a zip lock bag if there were any worries about people choking.)
Happy springtime and happy storytelling!
Remember – not all of my props recommendations are toys! The props I suggest should not be used by children unsupervised.