Looking to change up your sensory bin? Try sand sensory play.
Yep! We tried sand sensory play, and all is calm to report back.
Now, I know. The majority of us believe sand should stay where it belongs. – at the beach.
However, the difference when you bring sand into your home and use it for sensory play is that it does not mix with water. Keeping your sand dry makes it a lot easier to vacuum and carry on and clean up.
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Exploring texture is a sensory bin win!
Exploring different textures is the way children navigate themselves through the world around them.
From very early on, they discover sensory textures such as:
- cold
- hot
- smooth
- rough
- slimy
- bumpy
- silky
- wet
- dry
Every touch is stimulating the brain sending new information to connect with what has already been learned. Touch and textures are one of the most valuable tools you can share with your toddler and preschooler.
Here’s my 18-month-old ready for play. You can use a sand sensory bin with your one-year-old, along with asking your three-year-old to join—multi-age sensory play success.
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Sand sensory bins are simple to make.
You don’t need much to make sand sensory play inviting. In fact, I took a quick look around my home and viola! A sand sensory bin was born.
Supplies
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The sand timer seals tight but does come loose with pressure. You want to keep this close to your plastic bin, so the sand doesn’t spill out all over your kitchen floor.
If you want to use sand that molds together and is less grainy, try kinetic sand.
We also hid small erasers that are found in the Target Dollar Spot.
Remember, your one-year-old is in sensory play ‘training.”
Do I allow my one-year-old to climb into the sand sensory bin?
Yes. Feeling texture on little feet is a wonderful experience.
Do I allow my one-year-old to fill up his measuring cup and walk it around the kitchen? Nope.
Keep in mind you are helping your one-year-old understand boundaries. Here is the complete guide on how to introduce sensory play.
In this case, I reinforce sensory play using key phrases:
Let’s put the sand INTO the bin. Can you come to POUR it in here? – point to the bin
We keep the sand in the bin. Let’s see if you can DUMP it right here? – point to where you want the sand to go.
If these do not work and sand gets thrown, keep in mind that your one-year-old is learning. Remain calm and remove them from the play area. You can say, “We do not throw the sand.” as you walk them away.
Then try again later in the afternoon or another day. Practice, practice, and practice again. Soon you will be able to sit back and allow the sensory play to take on the day!
Training for sensory play now will pay off later.
Ready to dive into Sand Sensory Play?
Remember, don’t overthink your supplies.
Once you have the sand, the rest will fall into place. Measuring cups and muffin tins may be all you need.
Now sit back, and watch the magic of sensory play.
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