Sensory Play

Course Available
3 Units
Online Self-Paced

Course Description

Foster Sensory Play and Support Diverse Learners

This course explores the critical role of sensory play in fostering holistic child development and supporting diverse learners. Sensory play provides rich opportunities for children to explore, spark curiosity, and develop problem-solving, creativity, and expressive language skills, while simultaneously strengthening fine and gross motor skills. Grounded in brain-based research, sensory experiences help build and strengthen neural connections that enhance learning, memory, and cognitive flexibility. Through intentional sensory play, children gain a deeper understanding of cause-and-effect relationships and how their actions influence the world around them. Additionally, sensory play serves as a powerful tool for supporting children who experience anxiety or frustration by promoting self-regulation, emotional comfort, and engagement in a developmentally appropriate and inclusive learning environment.

Course Details

Number of Units: 3.0 graduate level extension credits in semester hours

Who Should Attend: This course is designed for educators, administrators, child development professionals, and anyone interested in incorporating play-based learning to enhance student engagement and social-emotional growth. This course is intended for TK - 3rd grade educators or anyone that teaches small children from ages 4- 10.

Course Materials:  No textbook requirement.

Technical Requirements

Course Options

Course Date Units Price
EDU-X715U – 001 Start now, you have 180 days to complete this course once enrolled 3 $504

Sensory Play

Start now, you have 180 days to complete this course once enrolled
3
$504
Online Self-Paced
Summer Homen

Once you have enrolled in your course, log in to your account to access the course Welcome Letter, which includes directions on how to access the New Student Orientation and your online course.

What You Will Learn

  • Evaluate the neurological foundations of sensory play and its implications for learning and behavior
  • Design developmentally appropriate sensory play lessons that foster creativity and critical thinking
  • Analyze the role of sensory play in child development
  • Integrate sensory play activities into structural planning to support diverse learners
  • Assess the impact of sensory play on multiple domains of development

Instructors

Professional development courses offered by the University of San Diego’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education are taught by faculty that possess a depth and breadth of academic and real-world professional experience.

Why USD?

The Professional and Continuing Education program nurtures key partnerships on the local, national, and international level. The goal is to better serve working professionals who seek to enhance or build their careers and help achieve their highest value and potential. Contact us today to learn more.

Informative Stats and Facts

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Learning Method Information

Courses offer a convenient, yet rigorous style of learning that allows you to structure your education to suit your schedule while keeping you on pace toward achieving your educational.

Online Self-Paced

Our online self-paced courses are designed to provide flexibility and autonomy for learners. Unlike traditional classroom methods, which require attendance at scheduled times, self-paced courses allow you to progress through the material at your own speed within a six-month period from the time of enrollment.  Your instructor will provide feedback via written responses on your assignments and exams. Grades are based on completed projects, assignments and exams.

Key differences from traditional classroom methods:

  • No scheduled class times or required attendance.
  • No assigned due dates for assignments; you set your own schedule.
  • Asynchronous learning, meaning you can work on assignments anytime.
  • No discussion forums and no interaction with others enrolled in the course.
  • No scheduled class times or required attendance.

Structure of Online Self-Paced Courses:

The content is divided into learning modules, each covering one or more topics. Within each module, you can expect the following components:

  • Module Introduction: Outlines what you can expect to learn in the module.
  • Required Readings and Presentations: Includes textbooks, articles, journals, websites, and audio/video presentations.
  • Assignments: May include written assignments, quizzes, blogs, and other activities based on the readings and presentations.
  • Module Conclusion: Reviews the topics covered and what you should have learned.

Typically, there is a final project, paper, or exam due in the last module that synthesizes all the topics covered throughout the course. The design of the learning modules follows a consistent rhythm to help you manage your time effectively. Grades will be available within two weeks of final submission, transcripts will be automatically mailed out following grades being posted and approved. Please allow 3-4 weeks from when final grades are posted to receive a transcript.

Key Benefits of Educator Courses

A World of Choices

With hundreds of courses across a range of education-related topics, there’s a strong chance we have the ideal class for you!

Small Class Sizes

Small class sizes with real-world educators are an important part of the USD experience.

Work-Life Balance

Our educator courses offer flexible course formats and class times to help you balance your work, USD studies, and family life.