Sand and Water Tables - Providing Sensory OpportunitiesSand and Water Tables - Providing Sensory Opportunities

Sitting in a classroom for traditional instruction is necessary and an important part of the educational process, but just as important is providing sensory opportunities for students. Touching, feeling, sculpting, and getting dirty are interactive ways to help students learn. Sand and water tables provide great sensory opportunities for students and provide a versatile teaching aspect to the classroom. Here are some of the benefits.

Hold a Variety of Materials

Sand and water tables are not just for sand and water. Though these are two of the most popular materials to use when providing sensory interaction for children, other materials work just as well. Exposing kids to a variety of materials opens up a whole new world of touch and pretend play. Teachers can fill the table with plastic beads, rice or shaving cream, for example, for a new and fun sensory experience.

With any of these materials you can add canisters, measuring cups, spoons, or scoops. These tools give students a way to express themselves and give them a break from written work or seated learning. With a variety of materials to work with teachers can surprise their students and using the sand and water table will never become boring. Each time they open it a new surprise awaits!

Variety of Styles

Sand and water tables come in many different varieties. There are outdoor and indoor models that will fit in your educational surrounding. One of my favorites is the Frog Pond Sand and Water Table because it comes with canals which allow students to create currents and engage in free play. Another big hit is the Construction Zone Sand Play Table. This one is brightly colored like a construction sign and allows students to dig and play in a compact area. Traditional rectangular tables also give students the same sensory opportunities.

Easy to Maintain

Some people may think having sand and water tables is not worth the mess, but actually modern design makes the tables easy to maintain. Most tables come with a hole in the bottom which makes it easy to drain, rinse, and clean the tables. Some models even have removable tubs for simple clean up and refills. Most sand and water tables come with lids for easy storage. One option is to choose a table that is on coasters. These types of tables can be moved for clean-up or storage.

Encourage Cooperative Play

Sharing may not come easily to some children, but an important aspect of classroom play is learning to share and interact with other students. Sand and water tables are ideal for 2-4 students. This provides many opportunities for group play. Sharing shovels, pails, and toys or working together on a sand sculpture can help students interact and develop friendships. Teachers can also use the tables as an opportunity to reinforce lessons. For example, a teacher could ask a group of students to work together to build a certain animal or shape. These teaching moments are enhanced by sensory play. Sand and water tables are a great way to provide sensory opportunities for children. They are a wonderful addition to any classroom that both teachers and students will enjoy.