Sensory bins can be good for a number of things. I know, you’ve been seeing them all over social media and you probably wonder what they are good for.
Just to name a few things, they can help kids to develop their fine motor skills, and learn about different textures, and sensory input. Let me tell you more about sensory bins and their benefits for kids.
What are sensory bins good for?
In a nutshell, sensory bins can provide a calming sensory experience for kids who need them and can also be a great way to burn off energy for those who are more active. No matter what your child’s needs are, there is a sensory bin that can help!
Practiced Skills with Sensory Bins
- Fine motor skills: Kids can practice using their fingers to pick up small items, sort objects by size, or thread things like pipe cleaners or q-tips onto the string.
- Sensory input: Touching different textures, listening to the sound of water beads as they move around, or smelling fresh herbs can all be part of the sensory experience.
- Calming: The repetitive motions involved in sifting through sand or rice can be very calming for kids.
- Learning about new things: If you include items like shells or leaves in your bin, you can talk about where they came from and what kinds of things live in those environments.
- Creative play: Sensory bins can be a great way to encourage kids to use their imaginations. They can pretend the rice is snow, the water beads are lava, or the sand is a magical kingdom.
What are some things you can put in a sensory bin?
There are really no limits to what you can put in a sensory bin. Some common items include:
- Rice
- Dry Beans
- Colored pasta (dry or cooked)
- Water
- Rocks
- PomPoms
- Shredded Paper
- Sand
And so many more ideas! The possibilities are endless! You can also change up the contents of the bin regularly to keep things interesting for your child. See the image below for more sensory bin fillers.
What age is appropriate for sensory bins?
Sensory bins are appropriate for all ages! However, it is important to make sure that the items in the bin are age-appropriate.
For example, a bin with small items like beads or buttons is not suitable for very young children who might put them in their mouths. It is also important to supervise children while they are playing in the bin to make sure they are not eating the contents.
Can we use sensory bins for learning?
Yes! In addition to being fun, sensory bins can also be a great way to learn. For example, you can use them to teach kids about:
-Colors: Sort objects by color or have them find objects that are a certain color.
-Shapes: Look for items that are all the same shape or that can be fit together to make a particular shape.
-Numbers: Count the items in the bin or have kids estimate how many there are.
-Letters: Find items that start with a certain letter or spell out words using the objects in the bin.
Why do sensory bins calm children?
Sensory bins can be very calming for kids because they provide a repetitive, focused activity. The act of sifting through sand or rice, for example, can be very soothing.
The sensory input from the bin can also help to calm kids down by providing a distraction from whatever is causing them anxiety.
What’s the best container for a sensory bin?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a container for your sensory bin. First, think about what you will be using the bin for. If you will be using it for fine motor skills, you will want a shallow container that is easy to reach into. If you want to use it for sensory input, a deep container might be better so that kids can really dig in and explore.
Second, consider what material the container is made of. Plastic containers are usually the most affordable option, but they can be slippery and hard to clean. Metal or glass containers might be a better choice if you are worried about durability or sanitation.
Third, think about the size of the container. If you have a small space, you might want to choose a smaller bin. However, keep in mind that a larger bin will provide more space for kids to explore.
There is no one perfect container for a sensory bin. It all depends on your individual needs and preferences. Just make sure to choose something that is safe and sturdy so that kids can enjoy it for years to come!
Are sensory bins good for autism?
Yes, sensory bins can be a great tool for kids with autism. They provide a way for kids to engage in calming, repetitive activities. They can also help to provide sensory input that can be calming or distracting for kids on the autism spectrum.
What are some benefits of sensory bins?
Sensory bins provide many benefits for kids, including:
-Calming anxiety or stress
-Focusing attention
-Improving fine motor skills
-Encouraging imaginative play
-Teaching new concepts
I hope you can see how beneficial sensory bins can be for kids! They will enhance their learning experiences in a fun and engaging way.
Please note that this is not intended to be medical advice. If you have any concerns about your child’s development, please consult with a doctor or occupational therapist.