60 Tuff Tray Sensory Play Activity Cards for Toddlers & Preschool – Hands-On Ideas for Early Years Learning
Tuff Times? Stop Scrolling, Start Playing
Your easy guide to sensory play fun!
We’ve all been there. If you’ve ever stood over an empty tuff tray by Learning Through PLAYtrays® wondering what on earth to put in it, you’re not alone. Let’s be real — sensory play is magical, but it can also be overwhelming. The hardest part isn’t the cleanup... it’s coming up with fresh, meaningful ideas each week.
That’s why we created 👉 60 Sensory Play Activity Cards — made for tuff trays, sensory bins, and busy grown-ups like you.
This isn’t just another set of flash cards. It’s your go-to, grab-and-go, idea-starter for purposeful play. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, a therapist, or a grandparent new to sensory play, this deck is designed to make your day easier and your child’s play more meaningful.
What’s in the Box?
Here’s what you’ll receive when you open your set:
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✅ 60 Sensory Play Activity Cards
Each card includes “Prep, Play & Materials” plus an inspiring illustration.We know early years life is messy. So we made the cards tough.
Card size : 6.5" x 4.5" (16.5 x 11.4 cm)
Finish : Thick, matte cardstock with a splash-proof protective coating
✅ Double-Sided Checklist Card
Track all 60 activities as you try them — check them off, or use it as a planning tool.✅ User Guide Booklet
A friendly intro to sensory play, including tips on how to set up and extend the fun.✅ Wooden Card Holder
Perfect for displaying your “Activity of the Day” or rotating ideas each week.✅ Wheel of Learning Card
Double-sided, easy to reference, and designed to help you connect play to learning.✅ Custom hand-drawn artwork — created with love & care, not AI images.
Fun and Inspiring Artwork
When we started designing these cards, we knew one thing for sure: We didn’t want photographed-perfect setups that may make you feel intimated. Instead, each card features digitally hand-drawn illustrations — calming and inspiring. The artwork is 100% original and created through a collaborative effort at Learning Through PLAYtrays®.
We’re so thankful for the support from our friends and family who helped bring this vision to life.
Inspired by Real Play
These ideas are rooted in the Founders- Kamilla’s experience as an Early Years Educator, shaped by years of meaningful play in classrooms and homes. Many of the setups are 100% inspired by the children she’s taught, the educators who’ve mentored her, and the magic supportive moments that happened when Learning Through PLAYtrays® launched in 2024.
For Early Years Ages & Stages
These cards were thoughtfully designed to support a wide range of early learners — from curious toddlers to creative kindergartners and early primary students.
We didn’t label the cards by age. This card set was created to grow with your child . You can repeat favorite cards again and again, skip around, and choose setups based on what sparks joy for your little one.
A double-sided checklist card is included so you can keep track of your journey — whether you do just one or all 60.
A Sensory Play Resource
We created this deck with flexibility in mind . Whether you’re working in a preschool classroom, a daycare center, a therapy clinic (OT, PT, SLP), or just trying to keep a toddler busy at home — this is for you.
Some ways educators and families are using the cards:
As part of weekly planning and curriculum prep
To set up invitations to play in learning centers
For occupational therapy sessions that build sensory confidence
As a parent-friendly resource to guide meaningful time with little ones
In homeschool environments as open-ended learning tools
This card set is more than a box of ideas — it’s an invitation to slow down, connect, and enjoy the beauty of simple, hands-on play. We hope this resource helps you feel supported and inspired.
And most importantly?
Have fun!
So when you’re having a TUFF time coming up with ideas, just know: We’ve got you.
We’d Love to See Your Setups! Your play might just inspire someone else.
Tag us on social media:
Facebook @learningthroughplaytrays
Instagram @learning_through_playtrays
Are these flashcards for kids?
No — these are not designed for children to use directly. This is a planning resource for adults (parents, teachers, therapists, or caregivers) to help guide sensory play setups for young children.
What kind of tray do I need for these cards?
These cards were created to pair with the Tuff Tray — the original sensory PLAY tray for kids, redesigned in 2024 by the small family-owned brand Learning Through PLAYtrays® .
However, you can also use them with any sensory bin, sandbox, or flat play surface you already have!
What age group are these activities for?
The activities are designed for a wide range of early years stages — from older babies and toddlers to preschoolers and early school-age. There's no set age per card so you can choose based on your child’s interest and developmental stage.
Can I use these in a classroom or daycare?
Absolutely! These cards are perfect for classrooms, daycares, therapy sessions, and homeschool environments . They're designed to support planning, learning outcomes, and open-ended exploration.
Are the activities food-based?
There’s a mix! The set includes a combination of taste-safe sensory play recipes (like colored rice, oobleck, and more) and non-food play setups using natural items, toys, and loose parts. There’s something for every comfort level and setting.
Are there instructions on how to get started?
Yes! Every box includes a user guide booklet, a double-sided checklist , and a Wheel of Learning to help you confidently begin your sensory play journey.