Sensory play is any activity that stimulates the main senses. It isn't just about touch. It is play that has an effect on touch, smell, taste, sight and sound, as well as where each body part is in relation to another body part and the sense of balance.

An individual retains information and learns better when they are using their senses. Babies and children's brain development needs to have the chance to explore their environment. This supports the child's ability to complete more complex tasks, develop language, improve social interaction, cognitive growth, gross motor skills and problem-solving. The use of sensory items can help individuals relax and focus on a task or activity. They can have a calming effect in many situations, reducing anxiety and sometimes stop the onset of meltdowns.

We are all different and some of us are more sensory 'aware' than others. Some people who are on the autistic spectrum can be hyper (over) and hypo (under) sensitive to a wide range of stimuli. For example, bright lights, certain sounds, tastes and smells can be overwhelming and certain types of touch can be extremely uncomfortable. Those with hyposensitivity (many have both) may need to rock, fidget and swing as well as using sensory stimulating items like fidgets, chewy items, different textured items with bright colours and so on. Many individuals with ADHD cannot focus on a task without having something to fiddle with and so having a sensory or fidget item with them can help increase their concentration and focus. Individuals who have an impairment, such as hearing or sight, need more sensory input using their other senses, especially touch. Individuals with physical difficulties also benefit from using sensory items in many ways. Those with developmental delay also benefit from sensory items. It may help with hand-eye coordination, motor and cognitive function, strengthening of muscles, development to meet certain milestones, teach play and many more. Those with mental health struggles, such as anxiety, may benefit from sensory items to keep their hands and mind busy as well as grounding them. The answer to this question is complex and above are just a few reasons why some individuals may need to use sensory items more than others.

Anyone as we adapt to the individual's age, needs and preferences.

We take great pride in tailoring each box or bag to the individual's age, needs and preferences. We know, as the saying goes, one size does not fit all so the same items won't be suitable for everyone which is why we choose the items based on the information you give us when ordering. So, in order to get as personalised items as possible, we ask you to tell us as much information about your likes, dislikes and needs as possible. We hope you love your box or bag as much as we enjoy choosing your items!

We try our best to post orders out the same or next working day of your order confirmation depending on the time of your order. We send all our orders by Royal Mail 1st Class and you should expect it within 1-5 days of shipping confirmation.

If you haven't received your order after 7 working days of shipping confirmation, please don't hesitate to get in touch and we'll have a look where your order is up to.

If you want to set your own price for your sensory box or bag, be it more or less than we charge, just message us on Facebook or Instagram by searching ' Ali's Sensory Boxes ' or email us (contact@alissensoryboxes.com). We do lots of custom orders and we will try our best to accomodate to the value you want to pay!