How To Make Sensory Bins For Kids

Have you ever heard of sensory bins? If you haven’t, then let me introduce you to a super, cool, and amazing activity that you can do with your kids which is not only for fun but also for engagement and developmental play.

Sensory bins are created with stimulatory objects that may include items such as sand, dirt, water beads, etc.

Sensory bins are very good for:

• Fine motor engagement – development of smaller muscles in hands, wrist, and fingers
• Sensory development – sight, touch, and hearing
• Imaginative Play – social and language skills, critical thinking, and creativity

It is definitely a winner for screen-free access!

Have you also found any ideas for sensory bins that you could share? Please feel free to add to my list, or ask your questions or concerns in our FORUM section. I would be happy to help you!

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SENSORY BINS THAT ARE GREAT FOR FINE MOTOR SKILLS

“Sensory bins are great for fine motor growth, sensory and imaginative development in kids. ”

GET PLASTIC BINS

Get plastic bins that can hold a good amount of objects such as sand, toys, etc. I love the small toy bins at Ikea or you can purchase regular bins on Amazon. Size should be at minimum 13-1/8 x 10-5/8 x 3 inches.

BASE OF THE SENSORY BIN

SENSORY BIN USING WATER AS BASE

The base of the sensory bin can be made up of anything, depending on the theme of your play.

Items that can be used for a base includes:

• Sand (kinetic or regular sand)
• Water
• Compost or dirt
• Water beads
• Small rocks or gravel

TOOLS

DIFFERENT TYPES OF TOOLS USED FOR SENSORY BIN

Tools are also needed to help with sensory play. It is great for practicing fine motor skills.

Tools such as scissors or forceps, etc., help with muscle development in the hands, fingers, and wrist. It also helps with hand-to-eye coordination.

You can also use items that are already available in your household. For example:

• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Funnels
• Small plastic containers

TOYS

Find toys that are helpful and can stimulate sensory and imaginative play. Depending on the theme of play that you choose, add small toys that may match the theme. Examples of themes are:

• Dinosaurs
• Construction
• Ocean and Sand
• Garden and Critters
• Outer space

ADD TOYS THAT CAN HELP WITH IMAGINATIVE PLAY

OUTDOOR ITEMS

Outdoor items can also be used to help to stimulate sensory play. You can add anything from leaves, flowers, seashells, twigs, etc. to create a fun, interactive, and engaging environment.

ADD OUTDOOR ITEMS THAT CAN HELP WITH STIMULATORY PLAY

How to assemble the sensory bin:

1. Get a bin of choice
2. Add base – eg. sand
3. Add tools – eg. shovel, forceps
4. Add toys – eg. construction vehicles
5. Don’t forget to have fun

If you would like more tips on activities that you can do with your kids check out my blog post on:

• 10 fun screen-free activities for a 3 to 5-year-old
• 12 movement activities for kids to stay fit

Did you find the strategies listed in this article helpful? What were some of your favorite tips? How have they worked for you? Leave a comment below, I’d love to know what you think.

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