BLOG 3 Sensory Friendly St. Paddy’s Day Crafts

St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday that is enjoyed by many, with its festive decorations, traditional foods, and colorful celebrations. However, for children with sensory sensitivities, the bright colors, loud noises, and unfamiliar textures can be overwhelming and cause distress. That’s why it’s important to provide sensory-friendly activities that allow them to participate in the fun without feeling uncomfortable or anxious.

Here are three sensory-friendly St. Patrick’s Day crafts that are perfect for children with sensory sensitivities:

Leprechaun Hats: 

This craft activity is a great way for children to express their creativity and practice their fine motor skills, all while creating a fun St. Patrick’s Day accessory. The materials needed are simple, and the steps are easy to follow, making it accessible to children of all abilities. By decorating their hats with pompoms and pipe cleaners, children can add a personal touch to their creations and feel proud of their accomplishments.

Rainbow Sensory Bottle: 

This craft activity is a great way for children to engage in sensory exploration and create a calming, visually-stimulating toy. To make a rainbow sensory bottle, fill a clear plastic bottle with water and add a few drops of food coloring in each of the colors of the rainbow (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple). Then, add glitter, sequins, and/or small plastic shamrocks to the bottle. Secure the lid with glue or tape to prevent spills. Children can shake the bottle to watch the colors swirl and the glitter float. This activity is perfect for children who enjoy sensory stimulation and can provide a calming effect for those who may be feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

Sensory Treasure Hunt: 

Instead of a traditional Easter egg hunt, why not organize a sensory treasure hunt for St. Patrick’s Day? Hide small treasures, such as gold coins or small toys, around the house or yard, and provide children with a treasure map that includes pictures of the hiding spots. You can also include sensory challenges along the way, such as stepping on a green sensory mat or finding a pot of gold filled with green and gold sensory items. This activity provides an opportunity for children to engage in sensory exploration while also having fun and searching for treasure.

Sensory-friendly St. Patrick’s Day crafts that are perfect for children with sensory sensitivities:

These three sensory-friendly St. Patrick’s Day activities (Leprechaun Hats, Sensory Treasure Hunt, and Rainbow Sensory Bottle) are perfect for children with sensory sensitivities, as they provide opportunities for creativity, sensory exploration, and engagement in a fun and meaningful activity. By offering these activities, parents and caregivers can help children feel included in the holiday celebrations and enjoy the festive spirit of the day without feeling overwhelmed or anxious. With simple materials and easy-to-follow instructions, these activities are accessible to children of all abilities and can be adapted to suit each child’s unique needs and preferences.