Fun with Texture

For little ones, we love the idea of practicing to categorize in creative ways, like classifying by texture. In addition to building vocabulary and classification skills, it gives a unique sensory experience for children to connect the sensation to the word. ESL Amplified shares some ideas for integrating texture into activities or lessons. Although it has been targeted specifically for English Language Learners (ELL), we think it is a great idea for all young children. You can go on a texture scavenger hunt and have kids pick out objects with different textures. Once the search is over, they can close their eyes and feel the object and either say or write down what it feels like. You may find that an object has more than one texture or there may be more than one word to describe a texture.

Another great option to try is Teach Me Mommy’s touch and feel colour cards. These great sensory cards can be co-created with you and your child with whatever materials you have on hand (perfect for all those leftover craft supplies!). We recommend using them for any skill you want to practice with your child; you could use them to practice colours, sizes, shapes, or numbers, for example. Engaging multiple senses helps children to build strong neural pathways when they practice new skills.