When it comes to keeping little ones entertained, engaged, and learning, sensory toys are pure magic. They're more than just fun — they help toddlers and preschoolers develop motor skills, explore their senses, and burn off that endless energy (parents everywhere say "thank you").
As a mom of three young kids, I've learned that sensory play is not just helpful — it's absolutely essential. It's saved many rainy days, cranky afternoons, and "Mom, I'm bored!" moments around here. But if you've ever stepped on a sensory ball barefoot (ask me how I know), you know the chaos can get real fast. That's why having smart storage solutions is just as important as having the right toys!
Why Sensory Toys Are So Important for Kids Under 5
- Help develop fine and gross motor skills.
- Encourage exploration and curiosity.
- Support language development and problem-solving skills.
- Offer calming and self-regulation opportunities, especially for high-energy little ones.
Top Sensory Toys for Kids Under 5
1. Sensory Tables
Sand, water, kinetic sand, beans — you name it, a sensory table makes it better. We have one that lives near our dining room table, and it’s been a lifesaver. They're perfect for independent play, group play, and keeping messes (somewhat) contained.
Our son loves playing with his mini excavator and bulldozer in the dried black beans.
Shop sensory tables here!
2. Textured Balls
Squishy, bumpy, soft, or spiky — textured balls are excellent for sensory exploration and motor skills. For whatever reason kids love sensory balls - it occupies them for a surprising amount of time (and yes, they do sometimes become dodgeballs...)
When our son turned 4 we found these Crayola Globbles Fidget Toy balls that become sticky again when you wash them. While they are fun and actually really cool, they do wind up on ceilings and walls for some time.
See top-rated sensory balls here.
3. Play Dough and Modeling Clay
You know this one! It's a classic! Squeeze it, roll it, shape it. Play dough and modeling clay offer endless tactile fun (plus you can sneak in some color and shape lessons!).
We highly recommend getting the small container set to make sure they survive more than one afternoon. You won't be surprised to know you're kids will go through them quick!
Check out the best play dough sets here.
4. Water Beads
These squishy, colorful beads are a sensory experience like no other. My kids are mesmerized every time we bring them out — just make sure you supervise closely (and keep a towel nearby for splashes!).
You can do activities with colors, filling up different cups, vases or jars for plants or just let them play around with them! Parental supervision is advised for these.
We recommend these water beads here.
5. Sensory Boards and Busy Boards
There are SOOO Many sensory and busy boards out there - Just look at all these!
Buttons, locks, zippers, switches, lights, textures — sensory boards keep little hands and minds busy. Ours is always readily available in the playroom, and it’s one of the first things they run to in the morning!
Browse sensory busy boards here.
Storage Ideas to Keep the Chaos Under Control
I am not sure how many other parents are like this but when I think of toys... particularly sensory toys and activities, my mind's second thought is on organization, storage and accessibility for these things. Maybe I'm nuts but it is what it is.
Here are some of our household's go to storage solutions to keep things under control.
1. Clear Plastic Bins
Sometimes simple is best. Clear bins let kids see what’s inside without dumping everything onto the floor. We use these for play dough tools, textured balls, school supplies and random "treasures" they find.
Get some for yourself over here.
OH, and don't miss our Pro Tips for Organizing Kids Craft Supplies: A Step-by-Step Guide – Simplicity Home Living
2. Cubbies with Baskets
Classic for a reason. A cubby unit with colorful or neutral baskets creates zones for different sensory toys — and it’s easy for kids to help clean up. (Trust me, anything that makes them feel "in charge" of clean-up is a huge win.)
Shop cubby storage options here.
3. Rolling Carts
Rolling carts are a game-changer. We have a cart loaded up with all of our kids coloring and activity books, art supplies, crayons, markers, crafts etc. It’s perfect for rolling from room to room depending on where the chaos — I mean playtime — happens. It's also something they can get to independently to do their quiet activities.
Pro tip for you all - Get the METAL Rolling cart. Listen, there are tons of plastic ones on Amazon. They're good for some time but end up deconstructed after a while. I highly recommend getting this rolling storage cart here.
4. Storage Ottomans
Hidden storage? Yes, please. A soft, kid-friendly storage ottoman is perfect for tossing balls, plush toys, and small sensory items when you're tidying up quickly — and they double as seating for story time too.
5. Over-the-Door Organizers
Not just for shoes! We use an over-the-door pocket organizer for stuffed animals, mini fidget toys, shakers, and random busy board parts. It’s like having a secret arsenal of activities ready to go when boredom strikes. Sometimes the kids forget about it, but when they remember they have these on their closet doors, the excitement is back! It's fun to watch.
Final Thoughts
Sensory play is one of the best gifts you can give your kids — and your home doesn't have to look like a toy tornado hit it. With the right mix of toys and smart storage, you’ll have a happy, engaged toddler and a (mostly) tidy living room. Everybody wins!
Happy playing, organizing, and maybe even enjoying a hot coffee while they’re busy exploring!
