Fall Sensory Bin: Simple Play for Toddlers

One of my favorite sensory bins is a simple container full of beans. Of course fall is the perfect time to use nature to create a sensory bucket. All it takes is a quick walk around the neighborhood with a bag. You can take the collecting adventure on your own… or let the kids decide what to keep!

Inside the Fall Sensory Bin

• Leaves. Collect as many different types, sizes and colors as you can.
• Pine needles.
• Pine cones.
• Sticks and twigs.
• Seed pods.
• Flowers.

Along Side the Fall Sensory Bin

• Empty tissue boxes.
• Tic Tac containers.
• Toilet paper rolls.
• Yogurt containers.
• Measuring spoons.

Making the Sensory Bin Experience Awesome

Sensory bins are a great solo play activity. They allow you to set the scene and then watch the learning unfold as your little one explores all on their own. There are a few ways you can make the experience even better.

Talk to your explorer as they play. Ask questions about how the materials feel. Compare items by size, textures and color. Use words like similar, different, rough, smooth.

Offer new ways of play after some playtime has gone by. Try filling one of the containers with an item that’s too big to fit, then try another size. Try scooping the materials with measuring cup.

Use the materials to create a piece of art on the table.

Change the extra tools you offer the next time you bring this fall sensory bin out to play. Maybe this time add water (I know that is Little M’s favorite way to play… even now that she is no longer a toddler.)

More ways to play this fall

Rotting Pumpkin Experiment
Find That Tree: Leaf Scavenger Hunt
Playable Fall Decorations

This post originally appeared October 4, 2011.