SENSORY PLAY SPARKS JOY AT WOLFLE PRESCHOOL

From rocking chairs to sand funnels, Wolfle’s littlest learners discover the joy of sensory play.

At David Wolfle Elementary, some of the most magical moments of learning start with play, and sometimes, a little sand.

This year, thanks to a North Kitsap Schools Foundation grant, Preschool Teacher Pat Muñiz brought a world of sensory discovery to her classroom. The grant funded a collection of tools designed to meet her students’ diverse sensory needs, including alternative seating, noise-canceling headphones, chew necklaces, fine-motor learning materials, and the star of the show—a brand-new funnel stand for the sensory table.

A Classroom That Feels Like a Hug

Step into Wolfle’s preschool room, and you’ll see it immediately: calm, focus, and joy. The new rocking chairs have become instant favorites during Circle Time, giving students a way to move while staying engaged and comfortable. The noise-canceling headphones help children who become overstimulated by the sounds of a busy classroom find calmness and focus. At the same time, the chew necklaces provide a safe, soothing outlet for those who need sensory input.

“Most of our students are just beginning their educational journey,” shared Muñiz. “These tools help them feel safe, comfortable, and ready to learn.”

Sensory Play That Inspires Connection

When the new sand funnel stand arrived, excitement filled the classroom. The stand, complete with six funnels of different sizes, instantly became a centerpiece of exploration.

“When we took off the top of the sensory table with the new sand funnel stand and funnels and sand in it, our students were thrilled,” said Muñiz. “They couldn’t wait to dig in and experiment with shoveling the sand into the funnels, stacking the funnels, and sharing materials.”

As the sand poured and the laughter began, something beautiful happened—students who once preferred to play alone started playing together. The sensory table became a shared space where communication, cooperation, and social skills naturally flourished.

Play With Purpose

What looks like simple fun is actually foundational learning. The funnel stand encourages children to observe, predict, and experiment—the building blocks of early science exploration. It strengthens fine motor skills and problem-solving while creating opportunities for students to practice sharing, taking turns, and engaging in conversation.

These moments are significant for Wolfle’s preschoolers, many of whom have special needs. The sensory-rich environment ensures every child can access learning in a way that feels right for them.

“Our sensory table draws in even the students who prefer to play by themselves,” Muñiz explained. “It’s a chance to teach sharing, communication, and curiosity—all through play.”

A Ripple Effect of Joy and Inclusion

The benefits extend far beyond a single classroom. The new materials align with the Creative Curriculum, used across North Kitsap’s preschool programs, and support IEP goals that focus on building communication, self-regulation, and early academic skills. The district’s preschool team often shares ideas and resources, meaning the impact of this grant will ripple through future classrooms for years to come.

For Wolfle’s 27 preschoolers, this grant didn’t just add new tools; it added new ways to connect, learn, and belong.

Building the Foundation for Lifelong Learning

Thanks to the generosity of North Kitsap Schools Foundation donors, Wolfle’s youngest learners are starting their school journey with joy, confidence, and curiosity.

Because sometimes, learning doesn’t start with a pencil or a desk.

Sometimes, it starts with a rocking chair, a handful of sand, and a smile.