Open from Monday - Friday
Explore Our Locations
Call Our Friendly Team
Book A Tour
Check Availability

The Role of Sensory Play in Preschools

The Role of Sensory Play in Preschools
By Parent Marketing Group|

To understand the role of sensory play in preschools, let’s think about a newborn. When a baby is born, its only learning methods are touching, tasting, smelling, seeing, moving, and hearing. A child continues to use these methods to learn about the world throughout early childhood and beyond. In fact, studies show that children (and even adults) learn best when learning engages the senses.

Sensory Play in Preschools with SlimeHow Sensory Play in Preschools Shapes Learning and Behavior

Sensory play helps build nerve connections in the brain’s pathways and refines a child’s threshold for processing sensory information. For example, exploring sounds and noises while playing helps a child to block out noise that is not important. So, instead of being frightened or distracted by a sound, a child can process the noise appropriately.

As a child develops trust and understanding of sensory perceptions, the brain sends out affirming signals. Sensory play literally helps shape what children believe to be positive or safe. Ultimately, this shapes the choices children make and how they behave.

Ooey-Gooey Week at The Academy

Remember mud pies and slimy spaghetti “guts” at Halloween parties? Making those memories (and nerve connections) is the purpose of Ooey Gooey Week. We usually kick off the week with our Annual Mud Day and follow up with Slime Day. What a blast the kids have on those days!!

Playing with Oobleck is also a favorite activity. Oobleck’s a mesmerizing material that sometimes acts like a solid and sometimes like a liquid. It’s also safe because it’s just made from water and cornstarch.

For the best in preschools Nashville has to offer, consider The Academy with 11 convenient locations. Request information or make an appointment to visit.

 

*The name comes from the Dr. Seuss book, Bartholomew and the Oobleck.

More from The Blog

Daycare Services in Cool Springs
By Parent Marketing Group|
Exceptional Daycare Services in Cool Springs for Your Growing Child
Daycare services in Cool Springs should give families confidence that their child is safe supported and learning in a nurturing environment each day. The Academy Child Development provides high-quality early
Read More
Child Care near Powell Place
By Parent Marketing Group|
Top-Rated Preschool Programs and Child Care in the Powell Place Area
Finding the right child care near Powell Place is an important decision for families who want a safe nurturing and engaging place for their child to learn and grow. The
Read More
mid year child care enrollment guide
By Parent Marketing Group|
The Parents’ Guide To Securing A Child Care Spot During Mid-Year Enrollment
Mid-year child care enrollment guide resources can make a significant difference when you need a spot outside the typical enrollment season. Families often begin searching after a move a change
Read More

Helpful Answers for Families Choosing The Academy

These FAQs share clear details on enrollment, daily routines, learning programs, safety, and what to expect once your child begins at The Academy.

What ages do you accept?

The Academy offers early learning programs designed for children from infancy through Pre-K. Each classroom is built around age-appropriate routines, developmental milestones, and learning goals that support growth at every stage. Children receive the structure they need to feel secure while still having the freedom to explore and learn through play, hands-on activities, and teacher-guided instruction.

We use the Frog Street curriculum to provide consistent learning across classrooms and age groups. This curriculum supports early literacy, communication, motor development, and social-emotional skills through structured themes and purposeful activities. Our teachers follow curriculum-based lesson plans while also adapting the day to each classroom’s pace, helping children stay engaged and supported as they make meaningful progress.

Yes. Enrichment programs are included in tuition and offered throughout the week. These sessions add variety and excitement to a child’s routine by introducing creative activities, movement, cultural exploration, and age-appropriate science experiences. Enrichment helps children build confidence, discover new interests, and stay motivated by adding new learning experiences beyond the core classroom schedule.

Strong parent communication is a key part of a successful childcare experience. Families receive updates through our communication system, which may include daily reports, photos, and important notes about meals, naps, or classroom moments. Our team aims to keep families informed, reduce surprises, and create consistent support between home and school throughout the year.

Safety is a top priority at every Academy location. Our centers follow structured protocols for drop-off and pickup, classroom supervision, and daily accountability. Staff are trained to maintain safe routines and consistent classroom expectations while supporting children in a calm environment. During a tour, families can learn more about entry procedures, classroom organization, and how we prioritize safety every day.

The easiest way to schedule a tour is by submitting the tour request form on our website. Once we receive your information, a team member will follow up to confirm availability, answer initial questions, and help you choose the best program for your child’s age. Tours are a great time to explore classrooms, learn about daily routines, and better understand the Academy experience.

Before your child starts, our team will share a simple list of items based on your child’s classroom and age group. Most families bring labeled supplies such as extra clothing, diapers or pull-ups if needed, wipes, and any approved comfort items. Teachers will also guide you through routines for drop-off, communication updates, and what to expect during your child’s first few days.

Request Info
Schedule a Tour