30 Days of Sensory Activities for Kids
A ready-to-use calendar packed with quick, calming, and joyful activities—perfect for home or classroom. Print once, use daily, and build a predictable rhythm kids can count on.
Why Sensory Play Matters
- Supports self-regulation, focus, and motor skills through purposeful sensory input.
- Builds predictability and reduces decision fatigue—kids know what’s coming next.
- Uses simple materials you already have—easy wins for busy parents and teachers.
How to Use the 30-Day Calendar (Quick Start)
- Print the calendar (cardstock if possible) and post it where kids can see it (fridge, classroom board, calm-down corner).
- Pick a time (e.g., after school or before dinner) and stick to it for consistency.
- Gather simple materials in a small bin so setup takes under 2 minutes.
- Do the day’s activity for 5–15 minutes; end with a quick “What did we notice?” reflection.
- Check it off and celebrate progress—stickers or stamps work great.
Suggested Weekly Themes
Week 1 · Tactile
Rice/bin scooping, playdough mash, finger paint in zip bag, foam soap play.
Week 2 · Proprioceptive
Pillow crash, wall push-ups, carry the “heavy” book stack, animal walks.
Week 3 · Vestibular
Swing time, obstacle course, scooter board, hallway “tight turns.”
Week 4 · Calming
Bubble breathing, weighted lap time, lavender playdough, quiet corner.
Grab-and-Go Materials Bin
- Dry rice/beans + scoops/containers
- Playdough + rollers/cutters
- Painter’s tape (floor lines, hopscotch)
- Bubble solution + wands
- Foam soap / shaving cream (tray play)
- Yoga mat or cushions (crash + animal walks)
- Stickers/stamps (progress checks)
- Clean up wipes + small trash bag
Tip: keep it in a clear bin so kids see “play is coming.”
Adaptations by Age & Ability
OT-Informed Tips for Success
- Predictability first: same time, same cue (timer, card, or song).
- Start tiny: 3–5 minutes beats 0 minutes. Build up gradually.
- Offer control: let kids choose between two activities.
- Bookend with calm: begin with deep breaths, end with “body check.”
- Visuals help: pair with your Daily Visual Schedule to smooth transitions.
Safety Notes
- Supervise small items—choking hazard for under 3s.
- Clear play area; use non-slip rugs for movement tasks.
- Check for allergies (e.g., soaps, scented doughs).
- Stop if the activity increases dysregulation; switch to a calming option.
Troubleshooting & Tweaks
“My child refuses the activity.”
Offer two choices, shorten the time, or co-do the first minute together. Use a first-then visual: “First 3 minutes, then snack.”
“It gets too messy.”
Contain with trays, towels, or bins. Swap to “clean” tactile (zip-bag paint, dry beans) on busy days.
“Too hyped after movement.”
End with heavy work (wall pushes) + slow breathing before moving on.
Parents & teachers love this calendar—share your setup with #SensoryGift and tag us for a chance to be featured!
Download Your Free 30-Day Calendar
Instant PDF download—print and start today. (Pairs perfectly with our Daily Visual Schedule.)
📥 Get the Free PDF
