Activity

• Physical Risks:
  • Ensure all items in the sensory basket are non-toxic, free of small parts, and cannot be easily swallowed to prevent choking hazards.
  • Avoid items with sharp edges, loose parts, or potential entanglement risks to prevent injuries during exploration.
  • Supervise closely to prevent children from putting small items or objects in their mouths, especially if they are not intended for mouthing.
  • Check the condition of all items regularly to ensure they are safe for play and do not pose any risks of splinters, cuts, or other harm.
• Emotional Risks:
  • Be attentive to the child's cues and reactions during the activity to ensure they are comfortable and not overwhelmed by sensory stimuli.
  • Encourage exploration at the child's pace and avoid forcing interactions with items that may cause distress or discomfort.
  • Provide a safe and nurturing environment by maintaining a calm and supportive presence throughout the sensory play experience.
• Environmental Risks:
  • Choose a quiet indoor space free from distractions to create a calm and focused environment for the sensory exploration activity.
  • Ensure the play area is free of hazards such as electrical outlets, cords, or furniture with sharp corners to prevent accidents during play.
  • Place the mat on a stable surface to prevent slips or falls, especially if the child is exploring while sitting or standing on the mat.

Warnings and precautions for the Sensory Treasure Basket Exploration activity:

• Supervise closely to prevent mouthing of non-edible items, as small objects can pose a choking hazard for children aged 6 to 18 months.
• Avoid including any sharp or breakable objects in the basket to prevent injuries during exploration.
• Be mindful of sensory sensitivities or allergies the child may have to certain textures or materials included in the basket.
• Ensure the child is not left unattended during the activity to prevent any accidents or injuries.
• Monitor the child for signs of overstimulation or distress, such as crying, turning away, or becoming agitated, and provide a calming environment if needed.

• Be prepared for potential choking hazards by ensuring all items in the basket are large enough to not be swallowed. Keep a close eye on the child to prevent them from putting small items in their mouth.
• If a child starts choking, stay calm and perform age-appropriate first aid. For infants under 1 year old, administer back blows and chest thrusts. For children over 1 year old, perform abdominal thrusts. Seek emergency help if the object is not dislodged.
• Watch out for any signs of allergic reactions to the sensory items. Have antihistamines available if a child shows symptoms such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Administer as directed based on the child's weight.
• Keep a first aid kit nearby with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and gloves in case of minor cuts or scrapes. Clean any wounds gently with antiseptic wipes and apply a bandage if needed.
• Ensure the child does not tip over the basket or fall off the mat during exploration. Stay close to provide support and prevent any accidents that could lead to bumps or bruises.
• If a child gets a small object lodged in their nose or ear, do not try to remove it yourself. Seek medical help immediately to prevent further injury or pushing the object deeper.
• In case of any unusual behavior, distress, or injury during the activity, stop the play immediately and assess the situation calmly. Attend to the child's needs and seek medical advice if necessary.