A lot of times sensory and messy play go hand in hand. But not necessarily! So if you have a day when you’re short on clean up time or just want to try something different for sensory play, sensory bags are the perfect solution! Today we’ll cover sensory bags basics for beginners and teach you how to put together your first sensory bag!
Last week we talked about how to put together your first sensory bin. However, if you’re afraid your child might swallow some of the small parts inside sensory bins, you can start with sensory bags!
Why Sensory Bags?
Sensory bags are great for infants and younger toddlers who still tend to mouth everything. Some children are especially sensitive to messy play and getting messes on their hands.
Bags are ideal for them too, giving them the sensory experience they need without the discomfort. These bags are mess and choking hazard free and only require a few supplies to get started.
There are SO MANY variations for sensory bags. But we’ve included a list of a few supplies to get you started.
Sensory Bags Basics – Tools
- Ziploc bags – gallon size work best.
- Packing tape or duck tape – seal those bags shut! You can also tape them to a table.
Sensory Bags Basics – Fillers
- Hair gel
- Food coloring
- Sand and water
- Oil, food coloring and water
- Shaving cream
- Body wash
- Aloe vera gel
- Water beads
- Finger paint
Remember: The more liquid the filler medium, the less you need to put inside the sensory bag!
Sensory Bags Basics – Add-ins
Get creative with what gets added in. There are so many possibilities!
How to Make Your First Sensory Bag?
Follow the steps:
- Choose the filler and add-ins. Have them at hand.
- Place filler into ziplock bag. Don’t put too much or the bag will remain puffy and hard to squish.
- Place add-ins in ziplock bag.
- Close ziplock bag and seal the top with a tape.
- Give finished sensory bag to a child to play.
- Ask questions! Different themes, different questions.
What you decide to add in determines the type of learning that will go along with sensory bag play. They are naturally a jumping off point for science concepts. Children will explore what materials mix together and which don’t. And the theme of the add-ins can lead to learning of environments, animals, letter, shape and number recognition.
These bags are so easy to make! Just be sure the bag is sealed shut with tape. And squish away!
4 Seasons Sensory Bags
For an end, here are 4 sensory bags you can make to help your baby or toddler explore changing seasons:
Other Sensory Bags to Make and Play
- Beach sensory bag
- Glitter sensory bag
- Zig-zag sensory bag
- Shaving cream color mixing sensory bag
- Chasing Hearts sensory bag
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