Introduction to perceptual development
In order to make sense of the world, infants actively organise sensory data from birth, including vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, proprioception, and vestibular (Garvis et al., 2019; Kaywork, 2020; Sharma et al., 2021). Every other domain—cognitive (cause-and-effect), social (understanding facial cues), emotional (self-regulation), and physical (coordination)—is supported by perceptual development.
Key teacher competencies
- Every day, offering a variety of natural sensory experiences
- Recognising and reacting to sensory inclinations and dislikes
- Introducing novelty gradually while preserving peace and safety
- Connecting sensory play to real-world situations (Dean et al., 2019; Petty, 2016)
Australian Curriculum links
Art (textures), Science (sound/light), Movement (vestibular), Music (auditory), and daily activities are all closely linked to sensory experiences.
Three original learning experiences
| AGE | TITLE & DESCRIPTION | LINK TO THEORY & EYLF |
| 0-12 MONTHS | Scented fabric squares (lavender, lemon, vanilla) to smell and taste | Olfactory development – EYLF 4.4 |
| 12-24 MONTHS | Sound hunt cylinders- shake and match | Auditory discrimination – EYLF 4.2 |
| 2-3 YEARS | Barefoot nature walk (grass, sand, pebble, water) with feeling talk | Tactile & proprioceptive – EYLF 3.2, 4.1 |
RESOURCES
PICTURE BOOKS
Tails
Hop n Pop
SONGS
Row row row your boat
Head, shoulders, knees and toes
RHYMES/LULLABIES
Round and round the garden
This little piggy
MOVEMENT GAME
Slow scarf dancing in front of a fan