"Sensory toys" have gotten a lot of buzz recently, and for good reason. Sensory play is critical to a child's cognitive and motor development, and although it can take many different forms, using clay, dough, or other modeling compounds is one of our favorite methods. All that pushing, squishing, smoothing, and creating is a simple, accessible way for kids to have fun while engaging their senses at the same time. Playing in this manner can be calming for kids and adults alike, especially since you won't have to break the bank to do so. Here are some of our favorite options for clay and dough that we're sure any kid would love to get their hands on. Play-Doh Modeling Compound Tried and TrueThis compound is a classic sensory toy for countless hours of squishy fun. Best OverallFind on Amazon When it comes to sensory play, it’s safe to say Play-Doh has made a name for itself. Resisting dry-out and remaining perfectly moldable, Play-Doh is the delightfully squishy modeling compound that has delighted kiddos of all ages for years. This set comes with ten containers of bright, vibrant colors, each containing 2 ounces of the classic compound. You and your child can enjoy endless hours of imaginative, creative play together with this colorful set. Pros: Large variety of vibrant colors for squishing, smooshing, and otherwise creating Play-Doh masterpieces Resists dry-out for years of satisfying sensory play Recyclable packaging Non-toxic compound safe for kids Cons: If your child is sensitive to smells, Play-Doh does have a strong scent The formula contains wheat, so it may not be appropriate for children with severe allergies Kraftzlab Clay for Play Air-Dry ArtYour little one can create beautiful air-dry artwork with a little help from this set.Best Art KitFind on Amazon Clay provides a firmer option for sensory play. Plus, your kiddo can form more permanent sculptures out of clay, providing hours of exceptional creativity during construction along with enjoyment of their creations for years to come. This kit from Kraftzlab offers an entire art box for molding clay pieces, including a roller, charm rings, shaping tools, and googly eyes. All of the pieces, including the clay, fit into the handy carrying case for easy storage or on-the-go fun. Pros: Includes 15 vibrant clay colors Durable shaping tools stand up to heavy use Non-toxic formula safe for kids Air-dry formula with detailed instructions included Cons: Fair warning: if your youngster blends any of the clay colors together, they’ll stay that way Educational Insights Playfoam The Sixth SenseFor ideal sensory fun, this no-stain foam gives "squishiness" a new meaning.Best Sensory DoughFind on Amazon Made with non-toxic materials, this mesmerizing Playfoam never dries out, squishes into any form, only to be squished again into something else entirely. Providing endless hours of fun, Playfoam is ideal for kiddos who struggle with messes or having anything stay behind on their hands. Although Playfoam may appear to be sticky at first glance, it isn’t, and it never stays behind on your hands or other surfaces. This particular Playfoam package comes with eight unique colors for the squishiest of good times. Pros: Includes a user guide for Playfoam play ideas Won’t stain clothes for a mess-free play session Soft sensory input provides a uniquely delightful sensation Cons: Don’t mix together if you want colors to stay as they are Jovi Plastilina Reusable and Non-Drying Modeling Clay High-Quality, Premium ClayA beautiful clay 30-pack gives you everything your child needs to create beautiful clay pieces by hand.Best Modeling Clay Find on Amazon You can create some pretty amazing pieces of art with modeling clay, and regardless of your interests, this set from Jovi fits the bill. Modeling clay can be used for practical pieces, like a bowl for holding keys or change, or for free-form sculptures limited only by one’s imagination. With 30 vibrant, hold-fast, vegetable-based colors, this premium-quality clay won’t stain and resists fading. With a super-smooth texture, you can re-use this clay time after time, as it resists dry-out, doesn’t crack, and can be re-worked again and again. Pros: Includes 30 bars of gorgeous, vegetable-based colors High-quality modeling clay capable of creating any number of treasures Non-staining for easy clean-up Cons: The box this clay comes in is a bit flimsy, so you may have to store it elsewhere once you open it Crayola Air-Dry Clay Durable Air-Dry Clay This air-dry clay is a super-versatile medium for your little artist's masterpieces.Best Air-Dry ClayFind on Amazon This ultra-fine, smooth, natural white clay is a boon for highly creative children. It’s of excellent quality, won’t dry out until you’re ready to dry it, and it can be painted to create customizable art of all kinds. Because it’s an air-dry clay, your little one can make whatever their heart desires without needing a kiln or oven to dry it. Create beads, play cups, stamped impressions, or other delightful artwork and sculptures. With 5 pounds of this multipurpose medium, you’ll have your fair share of fun. Pros: Creamy natural white color perfect for painting Can be squished back together and reused to create something else Won’t dry out during use Completely non-toxic formula safe for kids Cons: If the object you or your child creates is too thin, this clay will dry and crack Frequently Asked Questions Where should I store my clay or dough? Although it’s perfectly fine to store your doughs and clays in their original container in which it came, you might want to keep it in a plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it from drying out prematurely. Cleaning up the clay or dough with your children is a great opportunity to engage in further sensory exploration while demonstrating the importance of taking care of their toys to keep them in tip-top shape. Can you revive dry sensory materials? Depending on the material, it’s entirely possible. For Play-Doh or other forms of clay, adding drops of water (easy does it) and kneading the dough can bring it back to its original, softer state. Other sensory materials may have special instructions, so it’s best to consult the user manual before attempting a revival.