I made one of these for my son last year and he loved it! My child who is usually wild and extremely active was suddenly captivated and focused.
Sensory bins offer kids an opportunity to explore their senses – touch, sight, sound (even smell & taste if you want to go there) while simultaneously learning and discovering. They are cheap, easy to make, and provide a stimulating experience right at home.
The sensory bin featured here is timely geared toward the fall season, but you can get creative and make it your own!
Sensory bins offer kids an opportunity to explore their senses – touch, sight, sound while simultaneously learning and discovering!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- White plastic bin (I used one that I had lying around)
- Dried beans
- Autumn colored cotton balls
- Shiny leaves
- Rocks
- Small red cups
- I also used some dinosaurs to make it fun to dig and bury.
I noticed that my son really enjoyed the texture of the sparkly leaves and rigid rocks. He discovered the contrast of weight between the beans and the cotton balls.
Filling the cups with the different items was also one of his favorites. If you’d like to add the senses of smell and taste you could add candy corn and pumpkin seeds and a fall aroma spray.
A sensory bin can also be used as a calming tool & distraction for tantrums.
It’s important to note that while playing in a sensory bin, children build skills in many different areas. Measuring and guesstimating amounts can be applied to math and science. Socially, kids can develop team-working skills. A sensory bin can also be used as a calming tool & distraction for tantrums.
I can’t emphasize enough how easy (and fun) it is to create a sensory bin at home! Now, gather some items from around the house and get started!
