By: Crèche Day SchoolThe Christmas season naturally engages all five senses, which supports brain development, emotional regulation, and learning!
Lights, ornaments, decorations, wrapping paper
Supports visual tracking, color recognition, pattern awareness, and attention
For infants and toddlers: soft lights, high-contrast ornaments
For preschoolers: sorting ornaments by color/size, noticing patterns on wrapping paper
Christmas music, bells, caroling
Builds listening skills, rhythm awareness, and language development
Songs with repetition (“Jingle Bells,” “Frosty”) support memory and expressive language
Movement to music helps connect auditory input with motor skills
Textures: tinsel, pinecones (artificial or real), cotton “snow,” wrapping paper, ribbons
Strengthens fine motor skills and sensory processing
Activities like crumpling paper, peeling stickers, or opening packages support hand strength and coordination
Pine, cinnamon, cloves, baked goods
Smell is closely tied to memory and emotional development
Safe scent exploration (spice jars, scented playdough) helps children make associations and expand vocabulary
Seasonal treats and snacks
Encourages trying new flavors and textures
Simple cooking or tasting activities support independence and social skills
