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Sensory Play Spotlight

Writer's picture: Sarah TaylorSarah Taylor

Ever feel like you're constantly looking for ways to keep your little ones engaged, learning, and entertained? Today, I'm sharing one of my FAVORITE sensory activities that's part play, part magic, and 100% developmental goodness – our shaving cream car wash!


Why Sensory Play is Your Secret Weapon

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I am passionate about how sensory play isn't just fun – it's CRUCIAL for your child's development. When kids explore different textures, temperatures, and sensations, they're actually:

  • Building neural connections in their brain

  • Regulating their sensory systems

  • Developing fine motor skills

  • Learning about cause and effect

  • Boosting creativity and imagination


Our Sensory Car Wash: How We Do It!

Picture this: A sensory table transformed into the most epic car wash your toddler has ever seen. We use shaving cream, water, and some toy cars to create a magical, messy learning experience.

What You'll Need:

  • Sensory table or large plastic bin

  • Shaving cream (white foam works best!)

  • Toy cars

  • Water

  • Optional: Sponges, brushes, towels


Pro Tip Alert: 🚨

This activity is AMAZING for kids who:

  • Need sensory input

  • Are working on tactile sensitivity

  • Love getting a little messy

  • Need help with fine motor skill development


Does your child hate being messy? 😱

Even more reason to do this! They may be overstimulated during the day by certain tactile stimuli, so this will help improve that system and help them have more regulated days! It will help them with:

  • Wearing certain clothing items (i.e. jeans, sweaters, tags)

  • Focusing on learning without feeling uncomfortable

  • Learning how to regulate their emotions


How To Do The Car Wash! 🚗🫧

Set up a bin (ideally on a sensory table) and place the cars into the bin. Spray the shaving cream and either pretend the shaving cream is soap to clean them or maybe making them dirty so they need to be cleaned! DO NOT force them to touch it. Show them how to play with the cars and then show how to wash them off in water or wipe off the shaving cream with a towel. Say things like "it comes off easily!" and "this is so much fun!" and let them explore.

People always ask me what products I like to use so here are some links!

  1. Sensory Table: LINK

    • Sturdy, easy to clean, perfect height for little explorers

  2. Washable Toy Cars: LINK

    • Durable, colorful, perfect for sensory play

  3. Sensitive Skin Shaving Cream: LINK

    • Gentle, minimal chemicals, great for sensitive kiddos


A Mama's Real Talk Moment 💕

Listen, I know the thought of potential mess might make you want to run. But trust me – the developmental benefits FAR outweigh a few minutes of cleanup. Pro cleaning hack? Lay down a plastic tablecloth or do this activity outside! And always have a few towels handy.


Safety First, Fun Always

A few quick safety reminders:

  • Always supervise sensory play

  • Use hypoallergenic products

  • Watch for any skin sensitivities

  • Have towels ready!


Your Turn, Mama!

I'd LOVE to see your sensory play adventures! Tag @LittleSlumberStars in your messy, magical moments and show me how YOU do sensory play.


Remember: A little mess = A LOT of learning! 🌈



Sarah Taylor, OTR Pediatric Occupational Therapist

Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant


Check out our sensory car wash video!




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