Get ready for some super fun Halloween sensory play! I love a change of seasons. It keeps things fresh and exciting and there is no better time for something to look forward to than right now.
You’ll want to add this Halloween sensory play idea to your mix. This article explains sensory play’s benefits and answers some frequently asked questions. You’ll get a supply list plus how to set up this great activity. Let’s spice up October with some delicious eyeball soup!
RELATED: Love Halloween? 31 Days of Halloween will keep you busy all month.
The Benefits of Sensory Play
Sensory Play unlocks MANY important skills!
- Accuracy with pouring and scooping – great for hand-eye coordination needed for things like writing and zipping coats later in life.
- Develops problem-solving skills – as I watch from behind the scenes, I can see how my kids argue, and problem solve. 95% of their altercations get resolved on their own. I know how my boys work together, and I also know when it is time to step in. With practice, you will begin to notice how kids resolve problems as well.
- Fine motor development – gripping objects improves the muscles in their little hands.
- Improves teamwork – sensory play forces my children to work together, make a plan, and better understand how to listen to one another’s ideas. – Such a HUGE skill that doesn’t come easily.
- Introduces them to capacity – they explore how much water will fill the jars.
- Self-control – pouring water into different containers requires a lot of concentration.
- Sink vs. float – a great science experiment to see what materials stay buoyant and which ones sink.
RELATED: New to sensory bins? Start here.
Supplies for Spooky Sensory Play
- Plastic Eyeballs – these will go in the water and they’re great for adding a Halloween touch!
- Scoops and Bins – you’ll use these to contain your sensory items. Find scoops and the bins here.
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How to Set Up Halloween Sensory Play
Sometimes we can provide too many supplies, which overwhelms preschoolers. Think, “What do I want my preschooler to practice?” and stick with that. For this Halloween Sensory Play, I want to showcase the plastic eyeballs.
I also want my preschoolers to explore sink vs. float and capacity, so I keep the setup simple.
Step 1. Pour water into a sensory tub
I placed water in a large metal bin I already owned. Check your inventory. I bet you have something similar.
Step 2. Add the eyeballs
Chuck in as many as you like!
Step 3. Include a few drops of orange food coloring
Include coloring in the water containers, step back, and invite your preschoolers to explore.
RELATED: Looking for ideas for fall? These 50+ Autumn Ideas will keep you busy!
My Kid’s Experience with Halloween Sensory Play
Sensory play is the gateway to higher-level thinking skills. As I watched my three-year-old pour the water into the orange juice container, I noticed his reaction as it can barreling over! – This is an exploration of capacity.
I also noticed my 4.5-year-old scoop and transfer water from one container to another. He watched the measuring cup closely as the numbers increased. “I am going to fill this up to the 6 mom.” – This is an exploration of measurement.
RELATED: Craving messy play? Try adding the eyeballs in shaving cream as we did here!
Halloween Sensory Play to Learn and Celebrate the Season
This activity is so simple, incredible for a range of ages, and develops skills while having fun! When will you make eyeball soup for Halloween?
Looking for More Halloween Activities?
- Bone Painting
- Halloween Color By Number
- Halloween Frozen Water Play
- Halloween Themed Messy Sensory Play
Craving a calmer morning?
Breakfast Invitations are simple learning games that begin the day with play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Keep sensory play simple! In most of our Halloween sensory bins we use items we already own and add the plastic decorations to water or ice. Target has mini erasers that make a fun addition to sensory play ideas.
First, add some water into the metal container. (Keep the water level low and supervise with young children) Next, I add a few drops of orange food coloring. Finally, mix the orange food coloring around to create orange water.
From my experience, the food coloring is so diluted that it does not stain hands or clothes. It is good practice to wear older clothes for sensory play.
