What Are Sensory Toys?
Sensory toys are designed to stimulate one or more of the senses — touch, sight, sound, smell, or movement. They're particularly valuable for babies and toddlers in early development, and for children with sensory processing differences, autism, or ADHD. But in truth, sensory play benefits all children — it's how young brains make sense of the world.
In 2026, sensory toys are one of the fastest-growing categories in UK toy retail, driven by growing awareness of sensory processing and a broader shift towards play that supports wellbeing and development.
Tactile Sensory Toys – Touch & Feel
Soft, textured toys that children can squeeze, stroke, and cuddle are among the most powerful sensory tools available. They provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and stimulate the sense of touch.
Itty Bitty Winnie The Pooh — a beautifully soft, pocket-sized plush that provides tactile comfort and a familiar, reassuring character. Perfect for babies and toddlers.
Itty Bitty Disney Eeyore — another gorgeous pocket plush with wonderfully soft textures. Small enough to take anywhere, comforting enough to become a firm favourite.
Itty Bitty Wizard of Oz Flying Monkey — a delightfully quirky soft toy that stimulates visual interest as well as touch, with its distinctive winged design.
Visual Sensory Toys – Colour, Shape & Movement
Visual sensory toys engage children through colour, pattern, light, and movement. They're excellent for developing focus, tracking, and visual processing skills.
ZURU Fuggler Misfit Monsters – Mr Screech — these wonderfully weird plush toys have strong visual appeal with their expressive faces and bold designs. A hit with children who love unusual, characterful toys.
Sensory Play Through Building & Making
Building toys also provide powerful sensory experiences — the tactile sensation of clicking bricks together, the visual satisfaction of a structure taking shape, and the proprioceptive input of pushing, pulling, and assembling.
Ikuper Power Brick – No Thunder Robot — a satisfying building brick set with a great tactile experience as you click the pieces into place. The finished robot is a brilliant visual reward.
Browse Our Sensory & Soft Toy Collections
- Soft Toys & Pocket Plushies
- Figures, Soft Toys & Playsets
- Baby & Preschool Toys
- Building & Construction Toys
UK Delivery & Newport Store
All sensory toys are available with fast UK-wide delivery. Visit us in Newport, South Wales for hands-on advice on choosing the right sensory toy for your child's needs.
FAQs
What are the best sensory toys for toddlers?
Soft plush toys, textured balls, simple building sets, and musical toys are all excellent sensory choices for toddlers. Look for toys that stimulate multiple senses simultaneously.
Are sensory toys only for children with special needs?
Not at all — sensory play benefits all children. While sensory toys are particularly valuable for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences, they support healthy development in every child.
Where can I buy sensory toys in the UK?
The Imagination Shop stocks a range of tactile, soft, and interactive toys suitable for sensory play, with fast UK delivery and expert advice available in our Newport store.
