Where to begin if you are new to sensory bins

As a new parent, you're probably discovering the endless possibilities for creative play with your little one. One such exciting and educational activity is the use of sensory bins! These simple, hands-on experiences can engage your child's imagination while fostering important developmental skills. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of sensory bins and explore how kids can pretend to be archaeologists, discovering hidden treasures within these captivating play environments. We'll also touch upon the benefits of incorporating play dough into their archaeological adventures.

What are Sensory Bins?

Sensory bins are containers filled with materials that engage the senses, providing children with a stimulating and interactive play experience. They offer a variety of textures, colors, and shapes, encouraging children to explore, discover, and experiment in a controlled and safe environment. Sensory bins can be tailored to different themes, and one particularly exciting theme for young explorers is archaeology.

Playing archaeologist in a sensory bin is an imaginative and educational way for kids to learn about history, scientific inquiry, and problem-solving. Here's how you can set up an archaeological adventure for your little one:

  1. Select a Container: Find a shallow plastic container or tray that is easy to clean and large enough for your child to freely explore.

  2. Fill it with "Excavation Material": Choose a base material that mimics the earth, such as dry rice, lentils, or sand. This will serve as the excavation site.

  3. Bury "Artifacts": Gather small objects like plastic dinosaurs, ancient coins, shells, or small toys. Bury them within the excavation material, creating a sense of discovery.

  4. Provide Tools: Offer tools like small shovels, paintbrushes, or spoons to mimic the tools used by real archaeologists.

  5. Encourage Exploration: Let your child dive into the sensory bin, using the tools to unearth the buried treasures. Prompt them to observe, describe, and make

  6. Have fun and engage and play with your child!

Next
Next

Why are sensory bins beneficial for teachers?