Sensory play is any form of play that stimulates and encourages the use of any of the five senses. It is a particularly valuable form of play for younger children, as it broadens their perception of the world around them through self discovery.

Playsilks are frequently used for this form of play due to their soft, silky texture and bright colours. Children will enjoy simply holding a playsilk in their hands or feeling the texture against their skin. Playsilks can be used with other toys and exploratory elements in a sensory play tray, or taken outdoors and enjoyed in nature. There's nothing quite like watching a playsilk blowing in the wind.

Jess says: "My baby is fascinated by the different textures, and loves watching different coloured playsilks blowing in the breeze. We have also enjoyed adding playsilks to a sensory tray, or to a shallow container filled with water, for different sensory experiences."

Role play is where children take inspiration from their environment and surroundings, then imitate life in a playful way. It is a form of play that encourages children to use toys and objects in imaginative ways, just like how Jess's son has used a playsilk as a blanket for his doll.

Jess says: "My children use their playsilks for all sorts of imaginative play. They can truly be used for anything and everything - a picnic mat, a water slide, a blanket for dolls, a baby carrier, the list goes on!"

Dressing up has long been a favourite form of imaginative play, inspiring children to role play, perform, dream and live out their fantasies in an expressive and exploratory way. Playsilks are a wonderful resource for dress up play, as they are not destined to be any one thing. Your child might use their playsilk as a cape, scarf, skirt, animal tail, headpiece or even a makeshift wig. If you are looking for a more structured costume, Sarah's Silks also offer a number of costumes and accessories such as Mermaid Tails, Fairy Skirts, Capes, Veils, Crowns, and Wings.

Jess says: "We often use our playsilks as capes or for other dress ups. My children love to run around with their playsilks flying behind them."