Fine Motor
SensoryPreschoolersToddlers6 Comments
We have done our share of fun sensory activities in the past, but can you believe we’ve never done just a simple cereal sensory bin?
This is a perfect sensory bin for toddlers since its completely edible! (In fact, my three year old, just sat and munched most of the time!)
It wasn’t until Kaitlin shared a photo of the giant Cheerios sensory bin in The Huddle that I thought to do it too. Thank you for that idea!
Really, all you need for a cereal sensory bin is some cereal and a tub. Add in some scoops, spoons and cups and you’re set!
We used two boxes of Cheerios for this bin. But its going to depend on the size of your tub.
I added pipe cleaners and medicine spoons and cups, and a couple bottles to scoop into.
My idea on the pipe cleaners was to offer a threading opportunity, much like the button and pipe cleaner tree quiet bin that Sarah (of How Wee Learn) shared.
I started a couple to give him the idea.
Louis loved scooping the cereal up and pouring it into the bottles and then dumping the bottles out, over and over again.
After spilling some Cheerios on the floor, he did take the opportunity to clean them up and thread them on the pipe cleaner for a little bit.
But, this was not a huge interest for him.
Scooping was much more interesting!
I also made a cereal sensory bin for George, my preschooler to spy items that I hid in it. I’m sharing that on PBS Parents, so go take a peak!
We didn’t use Cheerios for George’s sensory bin, but just other cereal (not even sure what kind it was honestly), but it didn’t have holes in them. You could use any cereal you like if you’re just looking for a sensory bin like this (and don’t care if you do the threading bit on the pipe cleaners).
Other sensory bin ideas:
- Oatmeal sensory bin
- Rice sensory bin
- Corn meal sensory bin
- More edible sensory play ideas found here
And yes, it was a messy sensory bin. I actually don’t mind the mess and find it easy enough to just sweep up when we’re done.
But if you don’t want the mess, here’s a couple tips if you’re afraid of the mess:
- Take it outside if you can!
- Put down a shower curtain, or just a large blanket and wrap it up when you’re done and just shake it out outside.
- Here’s 10 ways to keep messy play like this clean.
I also need to share this sweet photo I captured of the two of them playing so nicely together (even if it only was for a moment).
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Carrie says
This was an awesome idea!!! I tried it today. My 1 year old LOVED it and I didn’t have to worry about him eating anything bad. It kept his attention for over an hour!!! His 3 year old sister ditched her craft to play with him. It made a mess on the floor, but really was so simple to clean up. And not that much was even tossed. I’ve already been asked if they can play with this again tomorrow. Thank you!!!
Jamie Reimer says
So awesome! Thank you for sharing Carrie.