Need a preschool wind down? Try this rock sensory bin!
As most things do, the idea began at Target. I was roaming around the decor aisle, and there they were calling my name—little rocks for a perfect rock sensory bin.
RELATED: Help! How can I introduce sensory play? Here is our step-by-step guide.
Sure, some people use these little rocks to decorate vases, and others use them for exploration and discovery. Joanna Gains is going to have to forgive me for this one.
I say, forget the flowers. The under the bed storage bin with a few vehicles tossed in is the way to go.
RELATED: Here are 40 sensory bins for kids!
Touch is vital for learning
Did you know that touch activates different parts of the brain to open up its power? (whoa, right?)
When we offer play prompts and toys for children, we want to consider textures.
Plastic may have the same texture, where organic materials stimulate more of the brain since there is more growth potential through touch.
Sally from Fairy Dusts Teaching reminds me that our goal is to encourage as many high sensory experiences as possible.
Is putting this sensory bin together complicated?
NOT A CHANCE.
If you have been here for a while, you know that we are on a grab-and-go system. I am looking for simple ideas that also feel parallel to my child’s interest.
I know my preschooler enjoys the Paw Patrol. So my go-to here is to add in some pup vehicles.
Alternative ideas for play:
- construction vehicles
- add water and funnels
- fill containers using measuing cups like we did in Pour to the Lines
- freeze the rocks in a muffin tin
Sensory bin fillers are NOT a one-and-done!
I want something that has the best bang for the buck.
I keep my kinetic sand, beans, and now rocks for many years of play. Try storing them in these containers we share in our toy storage post.
NOTE: These rocks are small and a choking hazard. Supervise your child playing and use your best judgment if you should wait to play. Remember, you can always pin this post for the future!
Call in your Target order and let’s get started!
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First, add your rocks and vehicles to the sensory bin. Next, sit back and watch your child take the lead! You know it. The setup is that simple.
Leave the sensory bin out for a few days!
Thanks to the depth of the bin and the size of the rocks, this sensory bin is a lot easier to clean up than it is to clean up shaving cream and LEGOS. – which IMO has a time and place to let it all go when you can hose everyone down.
We used our hands to gather the rocks in the bin and swept up the rest. Five minutes max. Keep in mind your child is capable of helping with cleanup. Ease into what’s next by reminding your child that we need to scoop up the rocks; then we can have our snack!
Ready? Let’s get this rock sensory bin set up ASAP!
