Sensory food play: Progressing to wet and squishy foods

Sensory food play allows children to explore different textures, smells, and sensations in a low-pressure way. It is commonly used within paediatric feeding approaches (including occupational therapy and dietetic practice) to support sensory exploration, reduce food-related anxiety, and help children become more comfortable around different textures. It may also support fine motor development and increase familiarity with foods over time.

It can be particularly helpful for some children who are picky eaters or have sensory-based feeding difficulties. However, it is important to remember that every child is different, and some may need more time before they feel comfortable engaging with certain textures, especially wet or messy foods.

We started our sensory play journey with dry materials first, gradually introducing wetter textures as confidence built.

Dry sensory food ideas

1. Farm tray

• Weetabix “hay bales”

• Crushed biscuits for “mud”

• Animal biscuits scattered throughout

• Toy tractors and farm animals

2. Pouring and scooping

• Sifting flour or oats between bowls

• Transferring rice, lentils or pasta using cups or spoons

3. Fine motor play

• Threading cereal (e.g. Cheerios) onto dried spaghetti

• Scooping and pouring dried pulses or grains

Wet sensory food ideas

1. Frozen rescue play

• Freeze small toys in ice (using plain water or lightly coloured water)

• Encourage children to “rescue” the toys as the ice melts

2. Baking together

• Allow children to mix, touch, and explore dough or batter

3. Food painting

• Yoghurt mixed with a small amount of vibrant fruit juice (e.g. pomegranate juice) for painting on trays or paper

Why jelly?

Jelly can be a useful sensory medium due to its soft, wobbly texture, which encourages exploration through touch. Hiding familiar toys inside jelly can also support engagement, curiosity, and problem-solving as children are motivated to explore and “rescue” them in a playful way.