Did you know you can add Duplos into a snow sensory bin to encourage play? That’s right! As a former teacher and mom to three boys, I keep new activity ideas simple. Mixing a toy my child enjoys with a new sensory filler is an easy way to spark new creative ideas and give me a much-needed break. Add Duplo Snow Sensory Play to your rotation for the long winter days ahead!

Why this sensory bin is genius
In my eleven years of parenting and 13 years of teaching experience, I know that taking a familiar toy and giving it a new twist is GOLD. This can mean something as simple as taking an indoor toy and playing with it outside or offering it as a supply to toss into a sensory bin.
We finally had a snow day here in Georgia. It is a rare occasion that happens once every few years. So when the snow started falling, the boys and I found new ways to play with the snow inside.
I added some snow into the bin and placed our bucket of Duplos next to it. Guess who came to play? Yep! My 9.5 year old! He has always used sensory play to slow down, and this time was no different.
What is my child learning?
Did you know that sensory play supports many components of child development? Sensory play helps children reach important learning milestones through play. Much more than what you can get from a worksheet! (I know you already know this.)
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Sensory play promotes learning in many areas, including the following:
- Brain development as your child tries new ideas
- Cognitive skills as your child learns to think ahead
- Emotional development as your child regulates emotions
- Self-control as your child follows sensory play guidelines
- Fine motor skills as your child manipulates objects
- Hand-eye coordination as your child reaches for objects
- Focus as your child plays
- Language development as your child chats about what they work on
- Gross motor skills as your child moves to play
- Social skills as your child works in a sensory bin with another child
Isn’t that wild? All this from some snow in the backyard and a bucket of Duplos. Let’s get this set up. Read this article from the NAEYC about the importance of block play.
Supplies
Supplies are kept simple for this wintry sensory bin! After gathering your snow, gather the rest of the material listed below. I added links so you don’t have to search beyond your home.
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Duplos
This collection of Duplos is for ages 1.5 plus. Your child will play with these for years. (My big kids still do!)
Sensory Bin
I use this under the bed storage bin when I set up sensory play.
Three simple steps!
You guessed it! This winter sensory bin is as simple as gathering supplies and stepping back. If you set a timer, I bet it will take you less than three minutes.
- Gather snow and put it inside your sensory bin.
- Find Duplos and place them to the right of the bin.
- Invite your child to play!
PRO TIP: No snow? Snow sensory bin filler alternatives are cotton balls, ice, ice pods from muffin tins, fake snow, and shredded paper.
How my child played
As my child played, I unloaded the dishwasher. Sensory play allows time for him to develop skills and for me to watch from the sidelines, attending to something I need to get done. For years, I have shared with my children that play is their work, and they are great at it!
He built a race track that the motorcycle raced through as he worked. It may look simple to adults, but the thinking and playing were extraordinary.
Seriously, it’s the best!
How do you get your child to play more?
- Start with small setups like Breakfast Invitations to play through learning.
- Try to build a predictable routine to improve the flow of your day.
- Allow the rhythm of play to develop over time. If you set the stage, you will see momentum grow over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is! If your child is sensitive to the cold, have them play with gloves. I keep an eye on my child’s hands to make sure they are keeping a reasonable temperature.
Free-play in the snow, building snow forts, indoor winter crafts, playing board games, outdoor ice skating, roasting marshmallows, reading winter children’s books, making snow angels, making a snowman outside or indoors for a snowman craft.
Snow sensory bin filler alternatives are cotton balls, ice, ice pods from muffin tins, fake snow, and shredded paper.
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