11/13/2025
Before toddlers can name their emotions — they have to feel them in their bodies first!
Toddlers experience emotions as full-body sensations before they have the words or self-awareness to express them. That’s why sensory play is such a powerful (and natural!) tool for emotional development. Through exploring textures, movement, and deep pressure input — like hugging, swinging, or pushing heavy objects — their nervous system starts to understand how different emotions feel and how to return to calm after big feelings.
When children are given safe, structured sensory experiences, their bodies learn to regulate emotions such as frustration, excitement, or fear. Over time, this builds stronger pathways between the body and brain — the foundation for emotional intelligence and self-control later in life.
Occupational therapists often use sensory-based strategies to support this process, including:
✨ Deep pressure (weighted blankets or tight hugs) to calm the body and lower stress hormones
✨ Movement play (swings, jumping, rocking) to help release energy and organize the nervous system
✨ Visual or tactile calm-down tools (soft fabrics, glitter jars, squishy toys) to redirect focus and build coping skills
By helping toddlers identify “what calm feels like,” we’re not just managing behavior — we’re teaching their brains and bodies how to come back to balance. 💪
