Learning Resources Playfoam Pluffle Sensory Station Review

Reviewed by Sue Rumble

My two grandchildren aged 7 & nearly 3 love messy play and sensory play. I thought this item would be great for the 3 year old in particular. This item would also be great for children or adults with learning disabilities or sensory needs and could be a good calming toy. This foam can be moulded into shapes, things hidden in it and there are tools to help children with their fine motor skills. The tools include scissor scoopers, a roller and a collection cup. There are two different colours of the play foam and a tray to play in and store the items in. There is also an instruction leaflet. Other colours can be purchased on the Learning Resources website www.learningresources.co.uk.  The item arrived a bit later than expected but was packed really well in recyclable packaging and was undamaged.

My grandson was very excited to see what was in the box and wanted me to open it and set it up quickly. He immediately asked if he was allowed to mix the colours up – his favourite thing to do. I tipped the foam into the tray and he went straight for the scoop scissors to pick it up. At first he said he couldn’t do it, so I showed him how to open and close the scissors. He tried a couple of times and then managed to use it with two hands. I’m sure in time he will be able to use them with one hand – I think his hands need to grow a little. He loved filling the scoop up and emptying it again. He played with the roller and using tools I have from playdoh filled up the cup. He tried making shapes but the nature of the foam means that it does not stay in the shape made for long – he was fascinated with this. When I showed him that he could squeeze it in his hands and make things with it he said ”but it feels weird”. I loved the feel, thought it was very tactile and mesmerising as it moves. He was happier using the tools.

Inevitably, some was spilt on the sofa and floor, as a 3 year old doesn’t always keep things inside trays or on tables. It was really easy to pick or sweep up and does not mark fabrics or stick to anything so recommended for young children.

I also showed it to my granddaughter who is 7 years old. She has always loved any sensory and messy play. She was able use the tools easily and was happy playing with it in her hands. She was very intrigued with how it moved and said it was like a wave on the sea. She loved how it felt. She was also asking why it did this and why she couldn’t keep it into the shapes like playdoh does. A science lesson for her.

The one thing I would say would be it would be good to have a zip close or container with a lid to store the play foam in between uses. This product is retailed at £32.00 which I think is slightly expensive for the pack.

Rating: 4.5/5

RRP: £32.00

This product can be purchased from Learning Resources here.