The Best Sensory Play tools (and what you can use from your kitchen!)

When it comes to sensory play, it’s easy to feel like you need a Pinterest-worthy setup with all the fancy tools and themed pieces. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to buy anything fancy to create meaningful sensory experiences. In fact, some of the best sensory play tools are already sitting in your kitchen drawers or craft cupboard.

In this blog, I’m sharing my go-to sensory tools—both store-bought and homemade—plus ideas you can grab straight from your pantry. Whether you’re new to sensory play or just looking to simplify things, this post will help you set up with confidence (and without blowing your budget!).

Why Tools Matter in Sensory Play

Sensory tools aren’t just fun—they support:

✨ Fine motor development (strengthening little hand muscles)

✨ Hand-eye coordination

✨ Independence and creativity

✨ Focus, calm, and engagement

The right tools can transform a tray of rice or a tub of water into an experience that’s full of learning, curiosity, and fun.

Top Sensory Tools Worth Having

If you’re ready to invest in a few go-to tools for your home or classroom setup, here are some of my favourites (they last forever and get used weekly in our sessions!):

Tongs & Tweezers

Great for picking up pom-poms, transferring chickpeas, or grabbing mini treasures in a bin. They help build grip strength and coordination.

Scoops, Spoons & Measuring Cups

Perfect for pouring, scooping, and transferring materials from one container to another. They also teach basic math concepts like volume and quantity.

Pipettes, Droppers & Spray Bottles

Brilliant for water play, potion-making, and oobleck! Encourage fine motor control, and kids love watching how liquids move.

Mini Bowls, Muffin Trays & Ice Cube Trays

Great for sorting, pouring, and presenting materials in a beautiful, inviting way.

Rolling Pins, Dough Cutters & Stamps

Essential for playdough play! You can also use silicone moulds or cookie cutters for added variety.

Natural Elements

Wooden scoops, coconut bowls, shells, seed pods, and felt pieces can elevate your setup while keeping it calm and earthy.

Papoose nesting bowls & heart spoon – beautiful, functional pieces for meaningful sensory play. Available online

Papoose timber flower bowls – a beautiful essential for sensory play. Available online

Where to Buy: You can find sensory play tools in our Wonder Seekers Online Shop, including curated tool kits, scoops, bowls, and more—designed to be long-lasting, beautiful, and play-ready. Otherwise, you can find bits and pieces at places like Kmart, Coles, Discount Stores and even Spotlight (just to name a few!)

Everyday Kitchen Items That Work Wonders

No tools? No worries! So many sensory play essentials are already in your kitchen. Here's what to raid:

🥄 Tablespoons & Teaspoons

Use for scooping rice, cloud dough, or lentils. A fun way to explore pouring and transferring.

🍯 Measuring Jugs & Plastic Cups

Perfect for water play and dry base play. Transparent containers let kids see volume and measure.

🍴 Silicone Muffin Trays or Ice Cube Trays

Great for sorting, mixing, and freezing coloured water or nature-based potion pieces.

🧂 Colanders or Strainers

Let your child explore with pouring, draining, or even using them as pretend play baskets.

🧽 Sponges, Cloths & Brushes

Use in water trays or potion stations for scrubbing, squeezing, and experimenting with pressure.

💡 Tip: Keep a “Sensory Tools Box” nearby so you can grab and set up quickly without rummaging through your drawers every time!

Various kitchen tools that can be used with playdough!

Safety & Age Tips

Not all tools suit every age, so be mindful of your child’s developmental stage:

• For children who are still mouthing, avoid small parts and opt for larger scoops, soft brushes, and silicone tools.

• Always supervise water play and use containers that are safe and sturdy.

• Teach tool safety and respect—kids love being trusted with “real” tools!

You don’t need a huge supply cupboard to make sensory play engaging. With just a few well-chosen tools—and a little imagination—you can turn everyday moments into magical play opportunities.

Whether it’s tongs from your kitchen or a wooden scoop from your sensory kit, the real magic comes from watching your little one explore, create, and connect through hands-on play.

✨ Want to skip the prep and get everything in one box? Check out our Sensory Tools, curated to help families and educators set up engaging, low-fuss sensory play without the guesswork.

Disclaimer

All sensory play activities should be supervised by a responsible adult. Always consider your child’s age and developmental stage, especially if they are still mouthing objects. Only offer materials that are safe and appropriate. Avoid small parts for younger children. Water play should always be closely monitored. Wonder Seekers Sensory Play is not responsible for any injuries or incidents resulting from the use of these activities. Please use your best judgment and ensure a safe play environment.