How Do Sensory Bins Help Kids?

What are sensory bins

A sensory bin is typically a large tub or container of some sort filled with materials and objects carefully selected to stimulate the senses. Sensory bins are an amazing outlet for kids on so many levels.

• They provide Fine Motor Practice
• They allow kids to pretend play
• They are also an awesome way to teach kids about different subjects,
  from everyday objects like fruits to places in the world like beach.
• Also, Sensory bins can be a terrific way to help build a child’s
  language and vocabulary
• Let’s not forget the most important thing- Engaging 5 senses i.e. sight,
  smell, touch, sound and sometimes taste.

Sensory bins allow children to direct the play, giving them the ability to experience and exercise control over their environment. Sensory bins allow kiddos to feel like they’re getting in messy play while(usually) containing the mess for you.

For kids that are tactile defensive, sensory bins can be a safe way to experience a sensation that might otherwise be scary or overwhelming.

Sensory Bins are a wonderful way for children to explore the world around them in a safe and contained environment!

Be ready for the MESS….

Take your sensory bin outside, use a contained table or mat when inside. It’s best to think ahead about how you can contain the mess rather than figuring out how to clean up afterward.

Be Creative but Don’t Sweat it….

Sensory bins don’t have to be elaborate to be engaging.

Have you ever watched a kid play with a sensory bin of shaving cream? The play can go on and on.

Just work off a theme or idea. You can make it as elaborate as you (or the child) wants.

Don’t force it….

If your child doesn’t want to put their hand in to touch something, don’t force it. Sensory bins are a way for a child to approach the world and experience it. Find other ways the child can play (using wooden spoons for example) and let them approach the sensory bin on their own terms.

Join in….

Yes, it’s terrific for kids to experience sensory play on their own terms. It doesn’t mean you can’t be a part of the fun! Sensory bins can be a fun way for your child to direct the play. While playing ask them questions, engage their language skills and even expand on their vocabulary.

Here is a list of Sensory fillers easily available. So, grab them and start make your own sensory bins!

List of Sensory Bin Fillers

• Beans
• Beads
• Bubbles
• Cereal
• Corn
• Coffee ground
• Taste safe dirt
• Essential oils
• Feathers
• Fresh flowers
• Flour
• Grass
• Ice
• Jelly
• Kinetic sand
• Play dough
• Oats
• Pasta
• Paper
• Pompoms
• Rice
• Rocks
• Sand
• Shaving cream
• Snow
• Seeds
• Soap foam
• Veggies
• Water beads

Pheww…...! Did I miss anything? What’s your favorite sensory bin filler?

Also, don’t forget to check out our Sensory Bins on Shaping Kids! ORDER YOURS NOW!