“Sensory bins.” Feels like a mom buzz word these days. What even are they? Why are people using them?
Let’s talk about it.
They’re typically some container (plastic tube, large Tupperware, etc) filled with different items that differ in textures & materials that stimulate different senses & develop fine motor skills. Depending on the box, they can also teach practical skills of scooping, dumping, filling, emptying… Why was I intrigued? I have an inquisitive toddler and thought it would be a fun.
I thought he’d love it and he DID.
At first, I was slightly overwhelmed, but they turned out to be SO EASY to put together, CHEAP, and keep his attention!
The possibilities and combinations are endlessssss. It depends on the age of your child (choking hazards) and your comfort level for mess.
Here’s the thing: this can get messy. I’m not the typical “go with the flow, my house can be messy, my kid is having fun” kinda mom BUT- is a 5 minute clean-up worth the fun he had exploring? Yep, it was.
What do you need:
1. A container
Pick one from every category.. combine, BOOM you have a sensory box.
I used the 28qt container from target that was $4. A bucket, cardboard box, plastic basin, plastic kid’s pool, etc..
2. A base filler
Shredded paper
Beans
Rice
Sand
Rocks and Gravel
3. Objects to find/ explore
Pom poms
Mini animal figurines
Pipe cleaners
Tongue depressors
Measuring cups
Kitchen utensils
Cups
If you know me… I love a good theme & color coordination (I can’t help it). So I chose to do an Ocean/Shark themed blue box and a neutrals box.
The Dollar Tree & Amazon are amazing for supplies. I made both boxes for under $20 and I have plenty of left over supplies to make more.
I found the bins at target on sale and the ocean figurines on sale at target as well. Everything else at the Dollar Tree and Michaels. If you don’t have a (OCD) preference on colors, Dollar Tree could be a one stop shop for you.
Travvy loved it. The shredded paper was his favorite (and easiest to clean up). The shark figurines were a huge hit! He literally goes to get it and brings out the bin asking me to open it. 🙌🏼
Have fun!!! What are your & your little’s favorite combinations?!
