You’ll want to try this ABC Sensory Bean Bin.
I saw these beans and instantly knew my preschooler would want to get his hands on them. Mixing literacy in a sensory bin allows him to learn through play. This ABC sensory bean bin is a must-try!
RELATED: Love simple learning activities? Us too! Check our activity cards to keep at home for instant ideas.
We filled up a tub with beans and buried the letters.
First, I buried letters to continue building exposure to what the different letters look like and what they are called. I am not expecting my three-year-old to learn all 26 letters at a time.
My goal is to introduce letters through play.
By Kindergarten, children learning the Common Core will be asked to recognize and name all upper- and lowercase letters of the alphabet. We have plenty of time to get there.
RELATED: Here is a list of our favorite alphabet toys for kids.
Let’s set up our alphabet bin!
Days with Grey is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Uppercase colorful letters – We’ve used these for years!
- Lowercase colorful letters
- Beans
- Large plastic storage bin
Sensory play is a risk-free, hands-on way to introduce letters.
When your toddler finds letters in the beans, shout it out!
You can also begin to discuss letter sounds as each letter is picked from the sensory bin.
Prompt thinking by saying something like, “This is a Hh. H, hat, huh (make the sound).
RELATED: There are so many ways to play with letters! See our entire collection of literacy activities!
Tips I learned as my three-year-old rummaged through the beans:
- The beans may go everywhere, and the size and shape of the container matters. Read how we introduce sensory play here.
- I bought three huge bags from the grocery store. I recommend two. You can keep the beans in a seal-tight container to play another day again. We love these storage bins featured in our toy storage post.
- My toddler loved the feel of the beans more than the finding of letters. He ended up burying them. Either way, the letters are there to look at and discuss. When your child is ready to memorize the letter names and better understand letter sounds, they will let you know. This comes with time.s
- Trucks got involved, and we liked it. Stay flexible and allow activities to shift gears if need be.
Are you ready to set up your ABC Sensory Bean Bin?
