I definitely love olfactory sensory input.
From the smell of fresh baked cookies to bacon to those wonderful scratch n sniff stickers that I used to collect as a little girl, I find certain smells comforting. And then there were those scented markers that nearly every kid in school except me seemed to own. Gosh, they smelled so yummy!
It's amazing how this list of olfactory sensory toys and tools for kids brought back so many memories of childhood for me. And trust me, these scented items are way better than when your four year old farts and asks, "Did you like my fart, mom? It is really smelly!"
Yes, definitely much better.
And yes, he really did ask me that the other day.
From the smell of fresh baked cookies to bacon to those wonderful scratch n sniff stickers that I used to collect as a little girl, I find certain smells comforting. And then there were those scented markers that nearly every kid in school except me seemed to own. Gosh, they smelled so yummy!
It's amazing how this list of olfactory sensory toys and tools for kids brought back so many memories of childhood for me. And trust me, these scented items are way better than when your four year old farts and asks, "Did you like my fart, mom? It is really smelly!"
Yes, definitely much better.
And yes, he really did ask me that the other day.
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Olfactory Sensory Toys & Suggestions for Kids
All of the ideas listed below would make great stocking stuffer ideas for Christmastime!
1. Scratch N Sniff Stickers
1. Scratch N Sniff Stickers
I remember loving Scratch N Sniff stickers as a little girl. Scratch N Sniff stickers provide great olfactory sensory input for kids, while also providing great fine motor practice.
2. Scented Markers, Pencils, & Crayons
Growing up, I always dreamed of owning a set of Mr. Sketch markers. I never did, but I remember enjoying the smells of the different markers when I borrowed them from classmates in elementary school. You can also buy scented pencils and scented gel pens. Lots of different writing supply options that would be great at providing olfactory sensory input and they would all make wonderful stocking stuffer ideas for Christmastime.
3. Scented Bubbles
Bubbles may be a wonderful oral motor sensory activity for kids, but boost the sensory experience with some scented bubbles. Or try making your own scented bubbles!
4. Essential Oils
Essential oils are a great way to provide olfactory sensory input. Plus, they have the bonus of improving mood, concentration, focus, and overall health! Read more about the best essential oils for autism here.
5. Scented Play Dough, Theraputty, & Other Sensory Doughs
My kids love play dough, but they especially love scented play dough. You could also try scented theraputty for a quick olfactory sensory fix for kids!
6. Scented Ink Pads
Kids will love stamping with (and smelling!) these scented ink pads.
7. Scented Chew Toys
We go through a lot of chewy oral motor toys here, but if you have an olfactory sensory seeker that also chews a lot, then a scented chew toy would be a great tool for your kid.
8. Diffuser Necklace or Bracelet
Using a diffuser necklace or bracelet with some essential oils would be a great way to get kids the olfactory sensory input that they need. They can sniff the jewelry when they need the input.
9. Scratch & Sniff Books
Scratch and sniff books are another great way to provide olfactory sensory input. I remember loving these as a kid!
10. Scented Paint Markers
Amp up art time with some scented paint markers. I love that these don't require paint brushes!
Looking for more olfactory sensory ideas for kids? You'll want to try lavender scented beans, scented felt hearts, rainbow scented matching game, and chocolate soap foam.
