Between 12 and 24 months, your toddler is a whirlwind of curiosity, energy, and discovery. Every day brings new milestones—first steps, first words, and a growing desire to explore the world through touch, taste, sound, sight, and smell. Sensory play isn't just fun; it's a powerful way to support your child's brain development, fine motor skills, and emotional regulation during this critical window.

The best part? You don't need a fancy playroom or expensive equipment. With a few simple household items and a couple of thoughtfully designed toys—like the Silicone Suction Builders or the Bluey x Mushie Silicone Training Cup + Straw—you can create engaging sensory experiences right in your living room. Here are five easy, low-prep sensory play ideas tailored for your 12-24 month old.

1. Scoop and Transfer Sensory Bin

Fill a shallow bin or baking tray with dry sensory bases like rice, oats, or small pasta shapes. Add scoops, spoons, and small containers for your toddler to practice scooping, pouring, and transferring. This activity strengthens hand-eye coordination and introduces concepts like full, empty, and gravity.

To add a tactile twist, hide a few Silicone Suction Builders in the bin. Your little one will love digging them out, sticking them together, and pulling them apart—all while building finger strength and problem-solving skills. The soft, flexible silicone is safe for mouthing and easy to clean, making it a perfect addition to any sensory bin.

  • Use a large, low-sided bin to prevent spills and allow easy access.
  • Supervise closely to ensure no small items are put in the mouth.

2. Water Play with Pouring and Splashing

Water play is a classic sensory activity that never gets old. Fill a shallow tray or small tub with a couple of inches of lukewarm water. Add cups, funnels, and a few waterproof toys. Let your toddler scoop, pour, and splash to their heart's content. This activity teaches cause and effect (when you tip the cup, water comes out) and provides calming sensory input.

For an extra developmental boost, introduce the Bluey x Mushie Silicone Training Cup + Straw. Let your child practice drinking from the straw during water play—it's a fun, low-pressure way to build oral motor skills. The soft silicone spout is gentle on gums, and the vibrant Bluey design makes hydration feel like play.

  • Place the tray on a towel or waterproof mat to catch splashes.
  • Use warm water (not hot) and change it after 20 minutes to keep it clean.

3. Edible Finger Painting (Taste-Safe Art)

Toddlers love to put everything in their mouths, so edible finger paints are a game-changer. Make a simple paint by mixing plain yogurt with a few drops of natural food coloring. Spread a dollop on a highchair tray or a large sheet of parchment paper, and let your child smear, swirl, and squish.

This activity stimulates the sense of touch and sight while encouraging creativity. You can even press a few clean toys into the paint to make prints. For a fun variation, let your toddler hold a Silicone Suction Builders and stamp it into the paint to create textured patterns. The suction base makes it easy for small hands to grasp and press.

  • Use a smock or old T-shirt to protect clothing.
  • If using yogurt, keep the activity short and refrigerate leftovers promptly.

4. Sound Shakers and Music Makers

Sound play is a fantastic way to engage your toddler's auditory senses. Fill small, sealed containers (like empty spice jars or plastic eggs) with different materials: rice, dry beans, bells, or pasta. Tape the lids shut securely, then let your child shake, rattle, and roll them. Compare the sounds—loud vs. soft, high vs. low.

You can also use everyday items like wooden spoons and metal bowls to create a mini drum set. Let your toddler experiment with rhythm and volume. This kind of play supports auditory discrimination and can be wonderfully calming or energizing depending on the tempo. Always supervise to ensure no small parts become loose.

  • Use clear containers so your child can see the contents moving.
  • Rotate the materials every few days to keep the activity fresh.

5. Texture Treasure Hunt

Create a simple texture board or basket with items of different feels: a soft scarf, a bumpy silicone trivet, a smooth wooden block, a crinkly piece of tissue paper, and a fuzzy sock. Let your toddler explore each texture with their hands and feet. Describe the sensations aloud—"soft like a bunny" or "bumpy like a road"—to build vocabulary.

For a guided activity, hide a few familiar toys among the textures. Your child will love the surprise of finding a favorite item, like a Silicone Suction Builders, tucked under a silky scarf. The contrast between smooth silicone and rough fabric adds a rich tactile experience. This simple game enhances sensory integration and object permanence.

  • Rotate textures weekly to keep the basket interesting.
  • Always check items for safety: no sharp edges, loose threads, or choking hazards.

Sensory play doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With just a few household items and a couple of versatile toys like the Silicone Suction Builders and the Bluey x Mushie Silicone Training Cup + Straw, you can create rich, developmentally appropriate experiences for your 12-24 month old. Start with one activity today, watch your toddler's face light up, and enjoy the beautiful mess of learning through play.