What a wonderfully busy and exciting week it has been in our Kindergarten classroom! Our little learners have been fully immersed in a week of sensory exploration, where they’ve had the chance to focus on and investigate a different sense each day. The aim of the week was not only to help the children learn about their five senses — touch, hearing, smell, taste, and sight — but also to develop their language, curiosity, confidence, and understanding of the world around them through playful and hands-on experiences. Throughout the week, the children were encouraged to engage with their sense of sight and showed great enthusiasm each morning as they recalled the various things they had observed.
We began our senses journey by exploring our sense of touch. The children were introduced to a set of mystery "feely tubs" — each containing a hidden object. At first, some were understandably hesitant to put their hands into a box without knowing what was inside. But with gentle encouragement and the support of their peers, every child had a go — showing real bravery and growing confidence. They were delighted (and sometimes surprised!) to discover familiar textures like fluffy cotton wool, a prickly pinecone, and soft, squishy playdough. As each child took a turn, their friends eagerly watched their reactions, giggling and guessing what might be inside based on facial expressions alone. We then extended this learning by creating our own "feely hands" — paper hand shapes with a different material stuck to each finger. The children worked hard to describe each texture, using a fantastic range of vocabulary. We were particularly impressed by how many children challenged themselves to think of new and unique describing words — from “bumpy” and “smooth” to “cloudy,” “scratchy,” and even “tickly!”
The next day, the classroom came alive with sound as we explored our sense of hearing. The children investigated a selection of “noisy eggs,” each filled with a different hidden item. They listened carefully as they shook each egg, trying to work out if the sound was loud or quiet, sharp or soft, heavy or light. Could they guess what might be inside? Was it marbles, paperclips, wool, or something else entirely? This activity really encouraged the children to tune in to subtle differences and use language to describe what they were noticing. It also promoted turn-taking and patience, as each child waited their turn to test and guess. We were so impressed by their focused listening and willingness to take on the challenge.
Midweek brought a new adventure as we explored our sense of smell. The children took turns sniffing mystery smell pots — some familiar, others more surprising! Scents included minty toothpaste, vinegar, garlic powder, ginger, and a gentle floral perfume. There were lots of funny faces, lots of giggles (especially at the garlic!), and lots of great discussion as the children tried to work out where they may have smelled these scents before. This activity sparked wonderful conversations about home, food, bath time, and even grandparents! It was such a joy to see how one little smell could unlock a memory or a story.
Next, it was time to test our sense of taste. Thanks to our kind kitchen staff, we set up a special taste-testing table where the children were able to try a selection of different foods - slices of grapefruit, crisps, green pepper, tomatoes, a mini marshmellow, and a grape. For each item, the children were encouraged to try a small bite and then show whether they liked it by giving a thumbs up or thumbs down. Their reactions were absolutely priceless — from scrunched-up faces at the sour grapefruit to wide-eyed joy at the taste of marshmellows! This activity was a fantastic opportunity for the children to learn that everyone has different tastes and preferences — and that it’s okay to like or dislike something. It also helped to reinforce the idea of being respectful of other people’s opinions.
Throughout the week, the children were active, engaged, and full of questions. It was lovely to see them gaining confidence, using new language, and showing care and encouragement towards their friends. Whether they were discovering a texture, identifying a smell, or making a thoughtful guess, each child had their own moment to shine. Sensory learning at this age is so valuable — it builds not only knowledge but also social skills, emotional awareness, and creative thinking.
We are so proud of the way the children embraced each activity with such enthusiasm and open-mindedness. Well done, Kindergarten — what brilliant explorers you are!
