Sensory bins are a great activity for little ones.
We used to have monthly and seasonal themed sensory bins.
We also made a nice frugal light table out of a plastic bin and electric strand lights.
My husband made a little table where I could fit in a plastic tub.
I would gather materials from the dollar store and set out some spoons and scoops for the kids to play with loose parts.
Sometimes, I would gather items to go along with a unit study, like cars, dinosaurs, The Wizard of Oz.
Since I made sensory bins for my own children and know they have no allergies, it was no problem. For items for larger groups, I would make sure there were no wheat allergies or the like.
Why Sensory Bins?
Sensory play allows children to explore, discover, imagine, create, and learn – while engaging their senses.
Sensory play can be used to help kids calm down. We often used a quiet sensory toy during read aloud time or while waiting to occupy busy little hands.
They’re educational – helping kids develop important skills like language, emotions, fine motor, social, body awareness, science and math, and more.
Sensory play is great for special needs! Many therapists use sensory activity with even adult patients.
Sensory Bin Bases
- I saved packing materials like styrofoam and bubble wrap.
- Dyed rice or pasta.
- Dried lentils
- Dried beans
- Sand
- Oats
- Bran kernels
- Coarse wheat kernels
Sensory Bin Fillers
Themed items:
- bells
- plastic and wooden beads
- ribbons
- small boxes
- stickers
- die cut shapes
- plastic planter decor (hearts or stars)
- marbles
- pom poms
- decorative pebbles
- shells
- toys
Our Monthly Themed Sensory Bins:
I need to share this with some family members who have little ones.
What an interesting and accessible ideas! These might be just the thing for some of our kids with special needs in our Sunday School class.
Aw! I remember doing this with a ton when Miss A was little! Love it!
These bins look so inviting. They make me want to sit down and play for awhile too. :)
I love the table and how the bin fits right in! Such fun ideas as well!
Great idea to make the sensory bins seasonal. I still love them…putting my hands down in the rice feels so good. I know I am little crazy, but I enjoy it as much as the kids.
Happy Spring, Kippi #kippiathome
Looks like something my niece and nephews would love! Thanks for linking up to Thinking Out Loud Thursday!
I love sensory bins, but the mess can keep me from doing them often. I’ve tried putting a sheet down, but they like putting the beans or rice in other toys throughout the week. Thanks for sharing.