Instructions

Submerge several sprigs of lavender or another fragrant herb in water and let your child put their hands in it to feel the temperature of the water and the texture of the herb. Encourage your child to get close and smell the lavender, narrate what is happening as you play. Try using two different temperatures of water next to each other and dip hands in each bowl separately. Kids love water play, so don't be surprised if this leads to more exploration (pouring water from one bowl to the next, for example) - follow their cues and be prepared to get a little wet!

The Science

This multisensory activity--integrating scent, touch, and conversation--promotes curiosity and wonder in your child, and helps strengthen the neural networks underlying emotion regulation.