Wild Animal and Safari Play

by Kim Wallace

In our Facebook group, Crafted Play, the week of February 27th is Wild Life themed. Based mostly on wild animals. Here you will find resources to use to play along with us!

Wild animal sensory play is a great way to engage children in learning and exploration. By introducing them to a variety of tactile materials, they can gain a better understanding of how wild animals use their senses to interact with the world around them. From exploring the textures of animal fur to making soundscapes with natural objects, children can discover a range of sensory experiences that can bring their wild animal explorations to life. Additionally, this type of play can help children develop their fine motor skills, problem solving abilities, and creative thinking. With a little creativity, you can incorporate wild animal sensory play into your child’s playtime routine. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Make a wild animal sensory box! Fill a box with a selection of items such as feathers, fur, shells, sand, dried leaves, and twigs. Ask your child to explore the items, and encourage them to describe how they feel, sound, and smell.
Create a wild animal soundscape! Gather a range of items such as rocks, sticks, and empty containers to create a symphony of wild animal sounds. Ask your child to make different sound effects, and explore how each sound changes the soundscape.
Engage in a wild animal hunt! Take a nature walk with your child, and keep an eye out for evidence of wild animals. Ask your child to use their sense of sight, touch, and sound to help them in their hunt.

Wild animal sensory play is a great way to bring the natural world into your child’s playtime routine. Not only will it help your child learn about wild animals, but it will also give them the opportunity to explore their world through sensory experiences.

Setting up a safari sensory bin for your child is an easy and fun way to introduce them to the world of nature. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

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A large bin or container
Filler ideas- Sand, dirt, rice, split peas, or grass clippings.
Faux or real plants, leaves, trees or branches.
Animal figures
Rocks and stones
Magnifying glass or binoculars (Grab this set)
A few small containers or buckets (children love to put stuff in containers!)

Instructions:

Choose a printable like a liner, or playrounds.
Start by filling the bin or container with your filler of choice.
Place the faux plants, leaves, and trees around the bin.
Place the animal figures, rocks, and stones throughout the bin.
Place the magnifying glass or binoculars in a corner of the bin.
Add scoops or tongs to pick up the animals.
Place the small containers or buckets in different areas of the bin.
Invite your toddler to explore the bin and discover all the different elements.

Printables

Watercolor Alphabet Cards

Real Images of Animal skins

Real Images of Baby Animals

Inspiration

Books

This book is a must have! It has fun breathing exercises to do with your child especially when they're having trouble regulating themselves. My son actually asks for the breathing book now when he can't calm down.