Tuff Tray Ideas
Iโ€™ve gathered 11 years of tuff tray memories, and it made me think about how much sensory play really supports children โ€” not just mine, but all the little ones Iโ€™ve worked with over the years.
It helps with confidence, calm, curiosity, and understanding the world through their senses.
Nothing perfect or Pinterest-worthyโ€ฆ just simple, meaningful play.
If anyone wants easy, low-pressure sensory ideas to try at home, keep an eye out for daily tuff tray posts! Feel free to ask questions or share your experiences with us!! ๐Ÿƒ๐Ÿ’›
Sensory play isnโ€™t just โ€œfunโ€โ€ฆ itโ€™s how children learn.
Tuff trays gave my kids:
โœจ a safe way to explore textures, colours, pouring, scooping
โœจ early problem-solving and creativity
โœจ practice with fine motor skills
โœจ emotional regulation through calm, repetitive actions
โœจ confidence in trying new things
โœจ imagination without limits
โœจ a way to process the world when words werenโ€™t enough
For ND kids especially, sensory play is grounding.
It gives them control, predictability, and a space to regulate.
Looking back at all these photos reminded me of something important:
children donโ€™t need perfect setups โ€” just opportunities to explore.
Iโ€™ll be sharing some of our favourites over the next few weeks, along with gentle ideas for parents who want to try sensory play without the overwhelm.
No pressure, no perfectionโ€ฆ just simple, grounded moments that help little humans grow. ๐Ÿ’š
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Ellie Hayes
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Tuff Tray Ideas
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