The Importance of Sensory Play (and How to Do It)

An interview with Jes, Founder of The Jellybean Gym

When it comes to baby development, sensory play is often talked about — but what does it really mean, and how can parents support it in a way that feels simple, calm, and achievable?

To explore this, we sat down with Jes, founder of The Jellybean Gym — a passionate physical education educator, mum, and early-parenthood advocate. Jes works closely with babies and families every day, supporting development through purposeful, play-based movement, and her approach is both practical and reassuring for parents navigating the first year.

 

Why Sensory Play Matters in the First Year

So much foundational development happens before children even start school. As Jes explains, early movement and sensory experiences are not just helpful — they’re essential.

Sensory play supports how babies learn to move, see, feel, and interact with the world around them. These early experiences help babies build strong neural pathways that support motor skills, confidence, and coordination as they grow.

The Role of Tummy Time in Sensory Development

Tummy time plays a crucial role in early sensory and physical development.

“Tummy time lays the foundation for so many motor skills — from head control to rolling, crawling, and eventually walking. It supports the development of the core and trunk, visual tracking, and strength-building across the upper body and neck.”

Jes’ favourite tummy time activities include:

• Tummy-to-tummy time — a beautiful bonding moment with added skin-to-skin benefits

• Mirror play — encouraging head lifting and social-emotional development

• High-contrast cards or books — placed within reach to motivate reaching and visual tracking

• Support under the chest — helping younger babies stay comfortable for longer

“We’re all about making tummy time positive and pressure-free.”

 

How to Support Sensory Development Through Play

Sensory play doesn’t need to be complicated or overwhelming. Jes encourages parents to weave it naturally into everyday play.

“One of the simplest ways to boost sensory development early on is to integrate it into tummy time play.”

She suggests using:

• Water mats

• DIY sensory bags

• A variety of textured fabrics for little hands to explore

“Introducing a variety of textures from an early age helps with sensory integration. It teaches babies that new or rough textures are safe to touch and explore. This not only supports tactile development but also builds confidence, curiosity, and motor skills as they learn to reach, grasp, and manipulate different materials.”

 

Following Your Baby’s Lead

One of Jes’ strongest messages is to focus on developmental stages, not strict age ranges.

“Physical literacy play should be based on your baby’s developmental stage, not just their age. Every baby follows their own unique timeline.”

She encourages parents to look for cues like rolling, crawling, pulling to stand, and cruising — and to offer play opportunities that support the stage their baby is working towards.

“Enjoyment is the biggest cue to follow. Babies are great at letting us know when they’re uncomfortable or not interested.”

Interest and tolerance can change from day to day, and that’s completely normal. Continuing to offer a variety of gentle, play-based activities allows babies to engage when they’re ready.

 

The Most Important Thing to Remember

When asked what she wishes more parents knew about baby play and development, Jes’ answer is beautifully simple:

“That you are your baby’s favourite and most important toy.”

“We can feel pressure to have the ‘right’ stuff, but none of it replaces the power of responsive interaction — eye contact, cuddles, giggles, singing. These everyday moments shape the brain in ways that toys cannot.”

Play doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be present. Meet your baby where they are, trust your instincts, and know that connection is the most powerful developmental tool we have — with toys there to support you when you need a break!

 

Sensory play doesn’t need to be complicated. Follow your baby’s lead, focus on connection, and remember that simple, everyday moments matter most.

 

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More About Jes from The Jellybean Gym

“I’m Jes, a passionate physical education educator, mum (really my number one job title), and founder of The Jellybean Gym.”

Jes’ background spans physical education, business management, and gymnastics, and more recently postpartum support and education for mums and babies up to one year old. What drives her work is a deep commitment to supporting families during the all-important early years.

“I’ve always been deeply committed to empowering families in those first five years. After becoming a parent myself, I saw firsthand just how vital it is to have spaces that nurture both young children and the grown-ups raising them — spaces where play, connection, and support come together in a meaningful way.”

That desire led to the creation of The Jellybean Gym, based in Moonee Ponds in Victoria, — a space designed specifically for babies, toddlers, and their caregivers.

You can follow along and find out more information about The Jellybean Gym at their Instagram @TheJellybeanGym  or website HERE