INTERACTIVE SENSORY PROGRAMS FOR EARLY LEARNING CENTRES

Our sensory classes are Early Learning play-based incursions designed for babies and toddlers (typically aged 0–3) that support early development through hands-on exploration, movement, connection and play. Each session includes thoughtfully designed sensory experiences using a range of textures, sounds, colours, movement opportunities and open-ended materials that support curiosity, nervous system regulation, motor development, communication and social-emotional growth. The classes are grounded in developmental science and informed by research around attachment, sensory processing, co-regulation and early childhood development. Most importantly, they are designed to feel calm, engaging and joyful for both children and educators.

Our sensory play incursions are designed to be simple, engaging and easy for centres to implement within the rhythm of the day, while also supporting educators through modelling, reflection and developmentally informed practice. We fit around your room’s schedule and routines to ensure minimal disruption for children. We can also align sensory themes and experiences with your room’s programming, interests or current learning focus. Just let us know what would be most helpful for your team. Each sensory session includes: Developmentally appropriate sensory play experiences tailored to each room Thoughtfully chosen materials that support sensory processing, motor development, early problem-solving and regulation A strong relational focus (co-regulation, shared attention and joyful connection) Full set-up and pack-down of all materials Ongoing observation of children’s cues, interests and engagement In-the-moment modelling for educators around language, scaffolding and responsive interactions A short written description for each sensory box (approximately 200 words) outlining what’s included and how it supports children’s development, which educators can use directly in Storypark and observations All resources and consumables provided (no preparation needed from your team) To add further value, sessions may also include: Brief informal reflective feedback to educators where helpful (what we're noticing, what may be emerging for particular children and patterns of play or engagement across the group) Activities that evolve across the term in response to children’s interests and developmental needs An optional short written reflection once per term that can be used for documentation, critical reflection or future planning This reflective approach is something we also deliver in a more formal capacity for Community Kindergartens and Long Day Care Centres across Queensland, where there is strong demand for support that bridges developmental theory with practical, in-the-moment application.

At this stage, our sensory classes are offered exclusively within Early Learning Centres and early childhood settings. This allows us to design experiences that fit within each room’s routines, relationships and developmental needs while supporting educators alongside the children in their care.

Please reach out for our current pricing guide and availability. Most centres book sensory sessions across multiple rooms on a weekly basis (for example Nursery, Toddler and Junior rooms), however we can tailor sessions to suit your centre’s needs, routines and budget where possible. We’re passionate about making developmentally informed sensory experiences accessible for children and educators, so if you’re interested, feel free to get in touch and we can chat about what might work best for your service.

Dr. Siobhan Kennedy-Costantini, founder of Science Minded, leads the sessions alongside a small team of Sensory Play Facilitators. With over 15 years of research experience in child development and a background in developmental psychology, Siobhan is passionate about translating the science of early childhood into practical, meaningful experiences for children and educators alike. All facilitators receive training in child development, attachment, emotional regulation, responsive interactions and developmentally appropriate sensory play practices. The focus is not simply on activities, but on creating calm, engaging and relationally supportive experiences that honour how young children learn and develop.

The classes are gently structured but child-led. We create an environment that invites exploration while still allowing children the freedom to move, engage and participate in ways that feel right for them. The beauty of the open-ended materials that we provide is that there is no one “right” way to play with them. A tube might become a sword, a telescope, a tree, a tunnel or something entirely unexpected. The same material can be transformed again and again through a child’s imagination, curiosity and ideas, which is exactly what makes this kind of play so rich for learning, creativity and development. Young children learn best through play, movement and relationships, not through pressure or performance.

To learn more or arrange Sensory Programs for your centre, email hello@scienceminded.org. We can’t wait to bring the magic of Sensory Play to your little learners!