30 Days of Sensory Play Calendar

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)

  1. Print the calendar (cardstock if possible) and post it where kids can see it (fridge, classroom board, calm-down corner).
  2. Pick a time (e.g., after school or before dinner) and stick to it for consistency.
  3. Gather simple materials in a small bin so setup takes under 2 minutes.
  4. Do the day’s activity for 5–15 minutes; end with a quick “What did we notice?” reflection.
  5. 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

Age/Level Try This Adjust
Toddlers (2–3) Large scoops, big bins, simple “pour & dump.” Short bursts (3–5 min), sit-with support.
Early Elementary Obstacle paths, simple races, sticker charts. Add choices: “Pick A or B today.”
Older Kids/Varied Needs Timed challenges, track times, self-check boxes. Noise-reduction, clear rules, co-create plan.

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
Or upgrade your toolkit: Parent Sensory Survival Kit • Teacher Kit
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