In the earliest months, the world is one big sensory experience. Sensory play is not about elaborate set ups or trays of rice. For newborns and young babies, it’s all about creating little opportunities to explore.
For first-time parents, this guide is here to keep things simple and soothing. Sensory play can be woven into your everyday routines, using items you already have, along with a few thoughtful pieces that support your baby’s development.
Start with the senses that matter most
In the first six months, babies rely heavily on touch, sound and simple visual contrasts. Their world is still coming into focus, so gentle stimulation is more important than anything complex.
Touch: Soft textiles, crinkly tags, and safe silicone textures are perfect for early exploration. A comforter with different tactile elements helps little ones learn through their hands while feeling secure. We love the Done by Deer cuddle cloths, which mix soft fabrics with playful details and familiar little faces.
Sound: Babies love soft rattles, gentle chimes, and rustling fabric because they help them learn cause and effect. Choose pieces that are safe, light and easy to grip. We love the silicone rattles and early play toys from Done by Deer, designed to encourage gentle exploration without overwhelming tiny hands.
Sight: High contrast patterns, warm colour palettes and simple shapes are ideal in the early months. You do not need bright or flashing toys. Scandinavian inspired designs, like those in the Done by Deer range, create visual calm and help little ones focus without overstimulation.
Keep play short, simple, and baby led
The best sensory play sessions are usually only a few minutes long. Follow your baby’s cues. Look for soft engagement. Slow blinking, small movements, focused gazes, and relaxed hands are all signs they are ready to explore.
Try offering one object at a time. A soft rattle. A silicone teether. A fabric book. Let them mouth it, feel it and look at it. There is no wrong way to play at this age.
Bring sensory play into everyday routines
Sensory play is not something you need dedicated time or space for. It happens naturally throughout your day.
Tummy time: Place a soft textured toy or fabric book in front of your baby to encourage lifting and reaching. A small mirror is wonderful for early visual engagement. The Done by Deer tummy time toys and activity books are great for keeping babies motivated and curious for a little longer.
Nappy changes: Add a sensory object to hold. It helps your baby feel secure and gives them something familiar to explore during transitions.
Bath time: Water offers incredible sensory input. Add a simple cup to pour with or a soft silicone toy that is safe for splashing. The silicone bath toys from Done by Deer are easy to clean and perfect for little hands to grasp and squeeze.
Feeding time: As your baby grows, suction plates, easy grip spoons and soft silicone placemats provide touch, movement, and independence. We love the Done by Deer mealtime range, especially the silicone suction plates and first utensils that make early self feeding feel calmer for everyone.
Create a calm sensory space at home
You do not need a full playroom. A small corner with a soft mat, a few curated toys and warm lighting is perfect.
Choose pieces that are durable, safe and designed for real family life. Look for items that multitask, such as sensory toys that can be used from tummy time into toddlerhood. The soft Done by Deer play mats create an inviting sensory corner while blending beautifully into your home.
Rotate toys every few days to keep things interesting. You only need two or three out at one time.
Follow the rule of simple, safe and soothing
Sensory play for new parents should feel manageable. Stick to pieces that are:
- Safe: Always check age guides and ensure there are no small parts.
- Functional: Choose items that support more than one stage.
- Comforting: Babies thrive when the world feels familiar and warm.
- Beautifully designed: Calm, harmonious colours and simple Scandinavian design help maintain a peaceful feeling at home.
This is where thoughtful brands that value safety, storytelling, and real functionality truly shine. Items that invite curiosity without cluttering your space help create a gentle rhythm for your baby to learn and grow.
The heart of sensory play
Sensory play is not about doing more. It is about small, meaningful experiences that help your baby feel safe, connected, and curious.
Simple and familiar toys like comforters and rattles help babies make sense of their world and give parents confidence to support each new stage.
By keeping things gentle and intentional, sensory play becomes one of the loveliest ways to bond. It’s connection through touch, sound, and closeness: laying the foundation for a warm, playful routine that evolves as your little one grows.
This is Paid Partnership with Done by Deer
