Half-term can be meaningful without being busy or expensive. Strong learning happens through relaxed, hands-on play at home, where children feel safe to explore.
Here are sensory play, crafts, and messy activities that support communication, fine motor skills, emotional well-being, and confidence, while remaining practical for families.
Sensory Farm Bag from The Works
This farm-themed sensory bag includes textured materials and small figures for playful, hands-on exploration. It works well for sensory trays or themed learning about animals and farms.
Skills supported: sensory exploration, early language, imaginative play, focus and calming strategies
Buy here: The Works – Sensory Farm Bag
Easy Home Crafts for Young Children by BBC CBeebies
This collection uses simple crafts and everyday materials that most families have at home. You can adapt activities for different abilities and attention spans.
Skills supported: fine motor control, creativity, following simple instructions and confidence in making
Find here: BBC CBeebies Craft Ideas
Make Your Own Sock Puppets by Little Hearts Big Love
Sock puppets are a wonderful way to encourage storytelling, communication, and role play. Children create characters, practice conversations, and act out situations in a playful setting.
Skills supported: communication, social understanding, imagination and emotional expression
Find here: Little Hearts Big Love Sock Puppet Guide
Salt Dough Sensory Hearts Activity from SEN Resources Blog
This activity involves kneading, rolling and shaping salt dough before decorating it with textured materials. The hands-on process is calming for many children and supports physical development.
Skills supported: hand strength, sensory processing, creativity and concentration
Find here: SEN Resources Blog Salt Dough Hearts
Creative Activity Ideas for Children with Additional Needs by Hospice in the Weald
This thoughtful list includes fun, accessible activities for a range of needs, from creative play to gentle sensory experiences.
Skills supported: emotional well-being, creativity, engagement, independence
Find here: Hospice in the Weald Activity Ideas
Wizard Potion Jar Craft by Baker Ross
Children can mix colours, pour liquids and create their own magical potion jars from simple materials. This activity encourages curiosity and sensory play in a fun, imaginative way.
Skills supported: hand-eye coordination, sensory play, early science concepts, imaginative thinking
Find here: Baker Ross Potion Jar Craft
Sensory Play Ideas for Young Children by Twinkl
These sensory activities include textures, sounds, movement and visual stimulation, making them ideal for early development and calm bonding time.
Skills supported: sensory awareness, early communication, attention, and physical development
Find here: Twinkl Sensory Play Ideas
Wet and Messy Play Ideas from Gympanzees
This collection focuses on water play, foam, mud kitchens and tactile experiences. Messy play can be deeply calming for some children and supports exploration.
Skills supported: sensory processing, motor skills, curiosity, emotional regulation
Find here: Gympanzees Messy Play Ideas
Edible Sensory Play Activities by Early Years Resources
These activities use food to explore textures, smells, and colours safely. They help sensory seekers and children who are anxious about food.
Skills supported: sensory tolerance, fine motor skills, curiosity, and early food confidence
Find here: Early Years Resources Edible Sensory Play
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general interest and should not be considered medical, therapeutic or educational advice. Families are encouraged to seek support from qualified professionals regarding individual needs or concerns.
