Sensory Bins: Part 2
Let’s talk about two questions we get asked a lot:
What do you fill a sensory bin with?
And how do you avoid a huge mess?
Our Favorite Fillers:
All of these options are non-toxic, safe for toddlers, and relatively easy to clean up:
– Dyed uncooked rice
– Corn kernels
– Uncooked oatmeal
– Large dry pasta
– Dry cereal
– Kinetic sand (Note: the store-bought does require close supervision. While non-toxic, if ingested, it can cause GI issues.)
We’ve also tried things like cloud dough (flour & oil), cornmeal, and DIY “snow” (baking soda & water). While they’re fun, they come with a bit more cleanup.
If you’re able to go outside, a bin filled with colored water and some toys is fantastic and simple. Or you can go further, by making Oobleck - just a mix of cornstarch and water that is absolutely fascinating to play with, but also really messy!
A little goes a long way—whatever you choose, you only need a couple of inches of filler, just enough to cover the bottom of the bin.
Favorite Tools & Accessories:
– Small bowls, cups, scoops, tongs, measuring spoons
– Silicone cupcake liners, muffin tins, small funnels
– Large pom-poms, toy figurines, small containers with lids
As with the filler, there’s no need to have a ton of tools in the bin.
Putting It All Together:
You can keep it simple—or get creative with seasonal themes.
For St. Patrick’s Day, we used green rice, black cauldrons, scoops, gold coins, and rainbow erasers.
Another favorite: corn kernels with farm animals and trucks—or swap in construction vehicles and make a mini job site!
In winter, we love a pretend hot cocoa bin using dry oatmeal and mini marshmallows, paired with Wawa or Starbucks cups, scoops, and spoons. Kids love "taking orders," filling cups of cocoa, and transferring the oatmeal again and again.
Lastly:
Of course, there will be a little mess. You can place a large towel or sheet under the bin to catch anything that falls, and remind your child that the materials need to stay in the bin.
If your child just can’t resist flinging the filler, it might be a sign they’re not quite ready for this type of play yet. In that case, it’s okay to calmly say you’re putting it away for now and try again another time.
Like any new skill, learning to play with a sensory bin takes some practice, repetition, and clear, consistent boundaries. But it’s definitely doable! Feel free to reach out with any questions.