As far as simple classroom tools go, it’s hard to beat a sensory writing tray! From those that aren’t quite at the writing stage yet, but want to develop their mark-making skills, to emerging writers and those more capable, who want an inviting way to practise their skills. Sensory writing trays can be adapted across year groups.
We recently wrote about sensory classroom strategies to inspire writing. As well as engaging many senses, sensory writing trays offer other benefits.
For teachers, these trays provide a hands-on and engaging approach to teaching writing skills. They create a multisensory experience that appeals to various learning styles, making it easier for teachers to cater to the diverse needs of their students. Sensory writing trays also promote fine motor skills development as children manipulate and explore materials like sand, rice, or salt to form letters and words. They encourage teachers to incorporate creativity and playfulness into writing instruction, making it more enjoyable and effective. For children, sensory writing trays make writing a sensory-rich experience that stimulates their imagination and engages their senses. They provide a tactile and kinesthetic learning opportunity that helps reinforce letter formation and spelling. Sensory writing trays also enhance focus and concentration as children interact with the materials, creating a calming and immersive learning environment. They are ideal for learning sight words and practising letter formation. They can help fine-tune motor skills or support with phonics and spelling practice too!
Here’s a roundup of the most fun, creative and inventive sensory writing trays we could find!