6 Simple Sensory Play Ideas for Babies aged 6-12 Months

When your baby reaches 6 months, the world suddenly becomes even more exciting. They’re rolling, grabbing, starting to sit, and maybe even showing off those first little teeth. Between 6 and 12 months, babies are naturally curious, and sensory play is one of the best ways to support their learning and development at home.

The good news? You don’t need fancy equipment or class after class. With a few simple items, you can create magical play moments in your own living room.

Here are six easy sensory play ideas that babies (and parents!) will love.

1. Peekaboo with a Sensory Scarf

A lightweight scarf is perfect for gentle games. Drape it over your face for peekaboo, float it slowly above your baby’s head, or let them scrunch and grasp it.

This supports: hand–eye coordination, visual tracking, bonding.

(We include colourful scarves in our Premium Sensory Box because they’re such a versatile sensory tool.)

2. Shake, Rattle & Roll with Bells

Babies at this age love exploring cause and effect. Think along the lines of: “If I shake it, it makes a sound!” Give them a rattle or jingle bell toy and let them experiment. Try singing “Jingle Bells” or clapping along to their beat. We love a wooden maraca (included in our Premium Sensory Box).

This supports: rhythm, listening skills, muscle strength.

3. Texture Treasure Basket

Fill a small basket with safe, everyday textures like a soft baby brush, a silicone spoon, a crinkly fabric, a smooth wooden spoon. Sit with your baby and explore each one together.

This supports: tactile awareness, curiosity, early language (“soft”, “hard”, “smooth”).

4. Water Play (Mess free option!)

Pop a little water into a sealed freezer bag, add a few drops of food colouring, and tape it to the floor or highchair tray. Babies love pressing and patting to see the water move inside. You can even make it more engaging by adding glitter or plastic confetti.

This supports: cause-and-effect, fine motor skills.

5. Story time with Touch and Feel Books

Babies love exploring with their hands as much as their ears. Choose books with textured patches to stroke and lift-the-flap surprises. Snuggle up together and name what they feel. The 'That's Not My' series are our favourites!

This supports: bonding, language skills, sensory exploration.

6. Ribbon Dancing

Tie a few ribbons to a wooden ring or stick, and wave them gently through the air. Babies will track the colours with their eyes — and soon enough, they’ll want to grab and wave it them themselves.

This supports: gross motor skills, creativity, visual stimulation.

Why Sensory Play Matters Between 6–12 Months

At this age, babies are developing rapidly:

• They’re learning how their bodies move.

• They’re starting to understand cause and effect.

• They’re exploring textures, sounds, and sights with intense curiosity.

  
  

Sensory play is more than fun... it’s building the foundations of learning, confidence, and even language, yes, even this early!

I know not every parent can make it to baby classes, and that’s exactly why I created The Sensory Box Company. Our Premium Sensory Box is designed for babies 0–24 months, packed with safe, engaging toys and play guide - everything you need for magical moments at home.

Whether you’re a new parent looking for inspiration or searching for the perfect baby gift, sensory play brings joy to both babies and parents. 💛

Lauren x