What typically fills a sensory table in an early childhood education setting?

A sensory table in an early childhood education setting is primarily designed to provide children with opportunities to engage in hands-on exploration and experimentation with various textures and materials. Filling a sensory table with items such as water, beans, sand, or similar textures allows children to experience sensory stimulation through touch, sight, and even sound. These materials are typically chosen for their ability to promote tactile experiences and encourage children to manipulate and explore, fostering fine motor skills and cognitive development.

In contrast, filling a sensory table with pasta or rice, while also textured, doesn't provide the same versatility for exploration as water, beans, and sand. Toys and blocks are generally more suited for structured play rather than open-ended sensory experiences, and paper and crayons focus on artistic expression rather than sensory engagement. Therefore, using materials that allow for diverse sensory experiences is key to the purpose of a sensory table in early childhood education.