It wasn't that long ago that kids spent their days playing outside, naturally engaging their sensory system and building key skills. But with increasing time pressures and safety concerns, they are spending more time in front of screens and less time interacting with the world around them. As an occupational therapist with a specialty in sensory integration, Allie Ticktin has seen an increase in cases of children who struggle to sit in circle time or at their desk upright and who are delayed in walking, talking, and even playing. The good news is that boosting your child's sensory development doesn't take a ton of time, expensive supplies, or special know-how. Ticktin discusses the eight sensory systems and how a child uses them, and offers easy, fun activities-as well as advice on setting up a play area-to encourage development so that your little one will be better able to respond to their emotions, build friendships, communicate their needs, and thrive in school. That's the power of sensory play.