Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to engage in fun, hands-on activities with your little ones. Sensory play helps children develop fine motor skills, enhances creativity, and provides a calming experience. At The Sensory Spot, we love creating engaging, therapeutic play experiences, and today, we’re sharing an easy and fun DIY Valentine’s Day Sensory Bin that you can make at home! (We suggest the Dollar Tree or Michaels for all of our DIY projects for all budgets)
What You’ll Need:
1 large plastic bin or container
Pink, red, and white rice or pasta (dyed with food coloring)
Heart-shaped cookie cutters
Small Valentine’s Day-themed toys (mini hearts, plastic rings, pom-poms)
Measuring cups and scoops
Optional: Scented oils (like lavender or vanilla) for an extra sensory boost
How to Make It:
Prepare the Base: If using rice or pasta, dye it ahead of time by mixing it with a little vinegar and food coloring. Let it dry completely before adding it to the bin.
Add Valentine’s Elements: Toss in heart-shaped toys, cookie cutters, and fun textures like pom-poms.
Include Tools for Play: Measuring cups and scoops make it more interactive.
Engage & Explore: Encourage your child to scoop, pour, and search for hidden objects, boosting their cognitive and sensory development.
Why Sensory Play is Beneficial
Sensory bins provide numerous benefits, including:
Enhancing fine motor skills
Encouraging independent play
Supporting language development
Promoting relaxation and emotional regulation
Note: Always supervise young children during sensory play to ensure safety.
Visit The Sensory Spot for More Fun!
Looking for a space where your child can explore and develop through play? Come visit The Sensory Spot and enjoy open play sessions designed to stimulate learning and creativity!
💖 Valentine’s Day Special Offer! Use code VDAY2025 at checkout to receive 40% off your open play session when you book now through February 29, 2025. Don’t miss this chance to create unforgettable memories with your little one!
Book Your Session Now and let the fun begin! Happy Valentine’s Day! 🎉
Example of a Valentine's Day Sensory Bin:
Image Source: Happy Toddler Playtime
Description:
This sensory bin features a base of colored rice in pink, red, and purple hues, adorned with heart-shaped accessories and scooping tools, creating an engaging and festive play environment for children.
How to Create a Similar Sensory Bin:
Dye the Rice: In a zip-top bag, combine 1 cup of uncooked white rice, a few drops of red food coloring, and 1 teaspoon of white vinegar. Seal the bag and shake until the rice is evenly colored. Spread the rice on a baking sheet to dry.
Assemble the Bin: Once the rice is dry, pour it into a large plastic container. Add heart-shaped cookie cutters, small Valentine's Day-themed toys, pom-poms, and scooping tools to enhance the sensory experience.
For more ideas and inspiration, you can explore additional Valentine's Day sensory bin examples here.
Remember, sensory play is not only fun but also supports your child's development by enhancing fine motor skills, encouraging independent play, and promoting relaxation.
We hope this visual guide helps you create a delightful Valentine's Day Sensory Bin for your little ones!
Comments