Shape Sensory Bin: A Fun Activity for Kids
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What better way to learn about shapes than with a rice sensory bin!
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make your own shape sensory bin, explore the benefits of sensory play for toddlers, and offer ideas to extend the fun.
Remember to only use items that your child is old enough or mature enough to use safely.
⭐ Check out these sensory bin supplies! ⭐
What You’ll Need for Your Shape Rice Sensory Bin
This DIY sensory bin is simple to set up, and you probably already have most of the materials at home.
One-stop shop for all the supplies here!
- Gallon bags
- Food coloring
- Vinegar
- Rice
- Parchment paper
- Fun add-ins!
How to Make Your Shape Rice Sensory Bin: Step-by-Step
- Add 3 cups of uncooked rice to a gallon bag
- Pour 1 tablespoon of vinegar into the bag
- Add several (about 5) drops of food coloring
- Seal the bag, removing most of the excess air before sealing
- Squish the rice and food coloring until well mixed
- Pour the rice onto a piece of waxed paper and allow it to dry (the rice dries fairly quickly but you could let it dry overnight if you’d prefer)
For more detailed instructions on how to dye rice, please see our tutorial here.
Set Up Your Sensory Bin: Pour the colored rice into a large bin or shallow tray. This is our favorite sensory tray! Add your measuring cups, spoons, bowls, buttons, geometric shapes, and any other shape-themed items.
Why Sensory Play Matters: Benefits of a Shape Rice Sensory Bin
Sensory bins offer so many developmental benefits, especially for toddlers and preschoolers. Here’s how your child will benefit from this fun sensory activity:
- Fine Motor Skills: Scooping, pouring, and handling small objects help kids build fine motor skills, which are essential for writing and other hand-related tasks.
- Sensory Exploration: The texture of the rice provides a rich sensory experience, helping children calm down and focus.
- Imaginative Play: Toddlers and preschoolers can use the bin to pretend they’re making shape pies, which encourages creative thinking and role-play.
- Math and Science Concepts: Measuring and pouring rice introduces concepts like volume, capacity, and cause-and-effect in a fun, hands-on way.
- Calming Effects: The repetitive action of scooping and pouring has a calming effect, making this a great sensory play activity for stress relief.
Extension Ideas: Make Your Sensory Play Last Longer
If your little ones are loving their shape sensory bin, here are some fun ways to keep the activity going:
- Letter Hunt: Hide small letters in the rice and have your child find them. This is great for practicing letter recognition.
- Counting Shapes: Add different 3D shapes and practice counting them.
Sensory Bin Cleanup Tips
Sensory play can get a bit messy, but here’s a pro tip: Lay a large sheet or plastic tablecloth underneath the bin to catch any stray rice. Once playtime is over, pour the leftover rice into a sealed container and store it for future play.
Have Fun Learning with Sensory Play
The Shape Rice Sensory Bin is a fun activity that engages toddlers and preschoolers in hands-on learning. From fine motor skill development to sensory exploration, your little ones will benefit from this simple yet engaging sensory activity. Whether you’re homeschooling, planning a rainy-day project, or just looking for an educational activity, this DIY sensory bin is sure to be a hit!
Rice sensory bin ideas
- Dinosaur rice sensory bin
- Fall rice sensory bin
- Pumpkin pie rice sensory bin
- More coming soon!
Pair this shape sensory bin with our shape match game for more fun!
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