Finding ways to entertain an energetic toddler can be tiresome, especially as a homeschooling mom. I have wanted to invest in a sensory bin for a while and decided to finally bite the bullet. What better time to create a fall sensory bin than now?
Fall Sensory Bin and Simple Materials
After I received the sensory bin in the mail, I opted to go simple. After all, Miss L is only two, and I knew the bin would only hold her attention for a short while.
I painted rice in fall colors the first time, and the second time, I painted elbow macaroni in fallish/Christmasy colors. I was trying to go for Fall, but when I realized I was out of orange and brown paint, I just rolled with it.
That’s life, right? You have to go with what you have on hand to make life much easier as a mom.
After the painted rice and elbow macaroni dried, I used items on hand to create these two fun scenarios, which Miss L played with for five minutes. But it gave me five extra minutes without entertaining her! Ha.
The materials we had on hand were:
- Fake leaves
- Small hay bales
- Pretend Zoo and Safari animals from Amazon
- Sensory tools from Amazon (this wasn’t on hand; I bought them when I bought the sensory table. I will say I was disappointed with how tiny they were)
Painted Rice or Elbow Macaroni
To paint rice or elbow macaroni, I simply separated them into large gallon zip-lock bags and squeezed a few drops of paint. Then mix while still in the bag. Pour the materials on foil or wax paper in a single layer and allow to dry.
Of course, you will want to watch younger children and ensure they do not place the painted materials in their mouths. I was going to go for food coloring and white vinegar, but I was all out. So I improvised.
Items We Used For The Sensory Bin
Sensory Material Item Ideas
Sensory items are a great way to entertain toddlers. Be sure that they are safe, non-toxic, and not choking hazards! When toddlers and babies play with sensory items, they should be watched because some can be choking hazards.
Fun items to use as sensory materials:
- Cooked noodles
- White rice or painted rice
- Dry noodles
- Construction paper cut up
- Moon sand
- Sand
- Leaves (fake or real)
- Ice
- Snow
- Pipe cleaners
- Puff balls
- Ribbon
- Paper towels or toilet paper cardboard tubes
- Dry beans
- Water
- String
- Buttons
Of course, making a sensory bin can be as simple as you want. Use items around your home. It doesn’t have to be expensive!
Sensory bins are also great for older kids. My older three were more entertained by the sensory bin materials than Miss L.
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Hi there, I’m Jenna! I am a devoted mommy and wife. As well as an advocate for children and creating a peaceful atmosphere for those we love. I co-wrote Faith Actually: Living Life After Tragedy with my husband. I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Studies and currently working toward my Master’s in Positive Psychology. My number one desire is to create a peaceful home life for my family. My second desire is to share with you the tips I learn along the way!