Awesome Number & Math Sensory Bags

Looking for sensory math activities? Try one of these math themed sensory bags with numbers. They're great for working on counting, number recognition, and other math skills.

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It's not always easy to find math and number activities that are tailored to really young toddlers, but one activity that works great for this age group is to make a sensory bag. Although I do want to mention that sensory bags are great for a variety of ages and abilities, not just babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Now, numbers are most definitely my oldest son's love language. After all, he has hypernumeracy. And for many young hyperlexic kids, like my son, numbers become an interest or passion after the alphabet (see common interests for hyperlexic kids for more info).

However, when you have a precocious child who learns their numbers and math quite early, it can be challenging to find activities that meet them at their skill level. So definitely feel free to adapt the ideas below as needed!

Anyway, regardless of your child's abilities or skills, here are some math themed sensory bags with numbers to try. They're great for working on counting, math skills, number recognition, fine motor skills, and so much more!

This post was updated on May 28, 2024. New ideas were added and descriptions were included to make it even easier for you to find the perfect math or number themed sensory bag.

Fun Sensory Bags with Numbers to Work on Math Skills

These sensory bags are not only mess free, but, often, the kids can help make them too. So they're super engaging from start to finish.

You can tape these math and number sensory bags to the floor or table. Or switch things up completely and tape it to a vertical surface such as a wall or window. I'm also a big fan of using sensory bags on the light table because it really transforms the experience.

Let's take a closer look at some fun sensory bag ideas to try that work on counting, number recognition, math skills, and more. I've left out shape themed ones here because I really wanted the focus for this list to be numbers, counting, and simple math concepts.

1. Number Tracing Sensory Bag from Child Care Answers (pictured) - I like that kids can use their finger to trace the number. Or, if they like cars, you could race a toy car around the number in the sensory bag.

2. Ten Frame Sensory Bag from Happy Toddler Playtime (pictured) - If you'd like to practice counting, then this sensory bag might be right up your alley. I like that this activity is paired with playing cards.

3. I Spy Math Problems Sensory Bag from Hands On As We Grow - Want a fun way to practice math problems or times tables? No problem! This sensory bag is perfect for that.

4. Tracing Numbers Sensory Bag from Learning 4 Kids - You can trace numbers (or shapes) with this idea. Free printable flip books are included as well.

5. Pom Pom Ice Cream Counting Sensory Bag from Happy Tot Shelf - This sensory bag is a great way to work on fine motor skills and counting. Plus, it's a cute idea for summer learning with its ice cream theme.

6. Foam Number Sensory Bag from Messy Little Monster (pictured) - This post talks about how to make sensory bags in general, but you'll also find an idea that uses foam numbers. And if you have a hyperlexic and hypernumeric child, then I guarantee you have some foam numbers kicking around!

7. Numeration Sensory Bags from De Tout et De Rien - Practice matching numbers with this simple sensory bag idea. Again, works great if you have number manipulatives handy like most parents of hyperlexic and hypernumeric children do.

8. Money Sensory Bag from The Chaos & The Clutter - I like how this one has coins and money confetti. Not sure where you buy money confetti, but it's a cute idea regardless.

9. Squishy Sensory Bag for Tracing Numbers from Hands On As We Grow - A simple idea, but a great one. All you need is an unsharpened pencil and some bags labeled with numbers and filled with aloe vera gel.

10. Simple Number Tracing Sensory Bag from Pocket of Preschool - I love the color of this sensory bag. There's a free printable included so you can practice writing numbers.

11. Apple Seed Counting Sensory Bag from Happy Toddler Playtime - This activity is great for a fall unit and is a great way to work on counting skills.

12. Sensory Bag Number Hunt from Team Cartwright - I like the suggestions for alternative ways to use this sensory bag. I know my son would have loved the idea using the dice!

13. Hot Chocolate Counting Sensory Bag from Happy Toddler Playtime - This sensory bag is adorable. You get to count and add the right number of marshmallows (okay, pom poms) to each cup of hot chocolate. Great for a winter unit!

14. Corn Counting Sensory Bag from Happy Toddler Playtime - Here's a cute idea for a fall or harvest unit. You get to count corn kernels and put them on the right cob of corn.

15. Hungry Unicorn Subtraction Sensory Bag from Kindergarten Worksheets & Games - Want to practice subtraction? Then try this idea that features a hungry unicorn.

16. Number Hunt Sensory Bag from Mothercould - A simple idea that uses hair gel dyed to a dark color and paired with glitter. It looks pretty.

17. Search & Find Sensory Bag with Numbers from Raising Dragons - This one uses an unusual filler instead of the usual hair gel.

18. Sensory Bag Counting from Keep Toddlers Busy - This idea works on counting skills and colors.

19. Conversation Hearts Counting Sensory Bag from Zippi Kids - Here's another counting one, but with a Valentine's Day twist. It uses actual conversation heart candies.

Well, that's it for our list of fun math themed sensory bags with numbers. Which one are you going to try first?

Awesome Alphabet Sensory Bags

Looking for sensory bag ideas for toddlers, babies, and preschoolers? Then you'll love these alphabet sensory bags! They're great for hyperlexic kids who love letters.

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When you have a toddler or baby who learns to read on their own (it's called hyperlexia, if you're not already familiar with the term) and are looking for sensory activities to keep them busy, you'll quickly find that if it doesn't include their passion for letters in some way, then they'll likely not be interested.

But if you're new to sensory play and your kids are still babies or toddlers, you might not be ready to dive into one of these alphabet sensory bins.

Or maybe you have a toddler that is tactile avoidant and hates the feel of certain materials. Learn more about patterns of sensory processing here.

Well, that's where sensory bags enter the picture. They're a great way to introduce sensory play to the littlest of sensory explorers and to kids who avoid touching certain materials.

And making them ABC themed is the perfect way to get your hyperlexic kids interested in sensory play. So that's why I've put together this list of awesome alphabet sensory bags for kids. Let's take a closer look at some of these fun ideas!

This post was updated on May 29, 2024. New ideas were added and descriptions were included to make it even easier for you to find the perfect letter themed sensory bag.

Alphabet Sensory Bags Your Kids Will Love!

The thing I really like about sensory bags is that they are mess free and great for even the littlest of hands, like babies.You can even tape them to the floor, a table, or a window so that they don't move around or get put into mouths and chewed on (a genuine concern around here since my oldest chews on everything).

Some sensory bags look fantastic on a light table too. In case you're looking to amp up the sensory factor a bit.

Anyway, here are some fun letter, sight word, letter writing, and name recognition sensory bags to get you inspired to create one of your own:

1. Mess Free Painting & Alphabet Sensory Bag from Happy Toddler Playtime (pictured) - I like how this activity gives kids a mess free way to paint different letters. I also like that it is rainbow colored.

2. Alphabet Beads Sensory Bag from Fun Learning for Kids (pictured) - This one is so colorful with the rainbow alphabet beads!

3. Alphabet Sensory Bag from Preschool Inspirations - This sensory bag would look amazing on a light table since it uses transparent letters. I also like that this bag uses something other than hair gel.

4. I Spy Sensory Bag for Sight Words & Letters by Hands On As We Grow - I like how engaging this idea is. The kids have to search and read the words or letters that they find hidden behind the rice.

5. Swimming Letters with Dory Sensory Bag from The Educators' Spin On It (pictured) - Here's a fun twist on a letter tracing sensory bag using Finding Dory as the inspiration. Simply make the fish swim along and trace the letters.

6. Name Recognition Sensory Bag from School Time Snippets - Working on name recognition? Here's a cute idea to try. I like the Batman themed duct tape they used!

7. Letter Hunt Sensory Bag from My Mundane & Miraculous Life - This idea should keep kids busy for awhile given how small and how many alphabet beads are in this bag!

8. Ocean Name Recognition Sensory Bag from Modern Preschool - Here's another fishy themed sensory bag that incorporates letters. This one works on name recognition and you have to put the little fishies in the correct order.

9. Alphabet Magnet Sensory Bag from Active Littles - If you have a hyperlexic learner, then here's a great way to use those alphabet magnets you likely have on hand.

10. Alphabet Search & Find Sensory Bag from Sharing Kindergarten - I like how this blog post shows different ways they tried the activity and which materials worked best. Includes a free printable.

11. Letter Writing Sensory Bag from Pocket of Preschool - Practice writing letters with this beautiful sensory bag. Don't forget to grab the free printable cards to go with it!

12. Alphabet Matching Sensory Bag Activity from The Best Ideas for Kids - Here's another bag that uses plastic letter magnets. I really like the colors of this sensory bag - they remind me of the colors of my website's logo!

13. Easy Alphabet Sensory Bag with Foam Letters from Active Littles - Another thing most hyperlexic families have on hand is a set of foam letters. Simply toss them into a bag with some water for a fun new experience.

14. Literacy Sensory Bag Ideas from Pocket of Preschool - There are a couple of fun ideas here to work on sight words, name recognition, letter tracing, and more.

15. Super Simple Sensory Name Recognition Bag from The Preschool Toolbox - Help your child learn to spell their name with this simple idea.

16. Alphabet Sensory Bags Pre-Writing Activity from Home with Hollie - I like how this bag uses paint as its base.

17. Soap & Alphabet Confetti Sensory Bag from Downtown Montessori - This one looks like fun. There isn't much information about how it was made other than it uses soap and alphabet confetti.

18. Rainbow Sprinkle Letter Writing Sensory Bag from Active Littles - Well, here's a fun filler for a sensory bag! You can use it to practice writing letters.

19. Gel & Rice Sensory Bags for Letter Writing from Fashion Craze Learning Days - Here are two simple ideas that can be used for practicing letter writing.

20. I Spy Letters in the Sky Sensory Bag from Teach Me Mommy - Here's a cute idea that uses rainbow foam letters and shaving cream.

21. Letter Squish Bags from @the.playful.home on Instagram - I love this simple idea where you squish and move pom poms to form different letters.

22. Goo Sensory Letters Bag from ABC See, Hear, Do - This one was done as part of a letter G themed unit and uses "good" and the color green.

That should be more than enough ideas to keep your little one busy, especially those hyperlexic learners! Which ones of these alphabet sensory bags will you be trying out first?

St. Patrick's Day Sensory Bin

Simple St. Patrick's Day sensory bin activity for toddlers and preschoolers.

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I recently stocked up on some St. Patrick's Day items from the dollar store, which I basically tossed all together to create this simple St. Patrick's Day sensory bin.  A sensory bin, which I might add, that is great for a wide variety of ages, from babies and up.

In this sensory bin, you'll find sparkly shamrocks, lucky coins in green and gold, and so much green that you might think Kermit the Frog was hanging out in there. Sadly, no Kermit, but there's still tons of sensory fun to be had.

So if you're looking for a quick and easy St. Patrick's Day sensory activity for toddlers or preschoolers, then look no further!

St. Patrick's Day Sensory Bin: What You'll Need

I really love that this sensory bin uses non-food sensory bin fillers (see here and here for more non-food sensory bin ideas).

I also love that this sensory activity is low prep and uses items from the dollar store. As an added bonus, each of the materials can easily be reused for other St. Patrick's Day activities.

Here's what you'll need to recreate this St. Patrick's Day themed sensory bin at home:

• Green flexible mesh tubing, cut into short strips (see why below)

• Foam shamrocks - Some were even glittery, which is fun.

• Fabric shamrocks - The ones we used were stickers found at Dollarama

• St. Patrick's Day themed plastic coins

First, I cut up the mesh tubing for this sensory bin because otherwise it gets really tangled. And, honestly, I'm tired of untangling it. Especially after it has been wrapped around and around and around an exercise bike. Because that totally happened...(#LifeWithKids)

Anyway, this sensory bin is green, festive, and easy to put together. (Assuming you don't have to untangle the mesh tubing first, of course).

Playing in a St. Patrick's Day Sensory Bin

This sensory bin provides a lot of different textures from the smooth foam to the puffy fabric shamrocks to the stretchy, albeit slight scratchy, tubing. And the green mess tubing makes me think of big fat spaghetti noodles or long worms or something. Needless to say, four year old K could hardly resist digging in.

The mesh tubing is so much fun to play with. It was probably K's favorite element in this sensory bin! 

K also used the tubing to work on some fine motor skills practice by sliding one end of the tubing into the other to create a loop. You could also supply some scissors alongside this sensory bin to encourage some scissor skills practice, if you'd like.

So there you have it: a super simple St. Patrick's Day sensory bin that's perfect for toddlers and preschoolers and uses materials from the dollar store.

Winter Sensory Bin

This winter sensory bin for toddlers and preschoolers is so easy to put together. It's a great way to work on fine motor skills too!

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When you live in Saskatchewan and you don't get any snow in November and/or December, it's extremely unusual. So, sometimes that means we have to get a bit creative when the kids are desperately wanting to play with snow.

This simple winter sensory bin is a quick and easy solution to explore winter through sensory play, without having to rely on using real snow.

It's also another classic dump and play style sensory bin - like most of my other sensory bins - meaning you can be set up and ready for sensory play in mere seconds. Low prep for you. Tons of fun for the kids.

I also love that this winter themed sensory bin is a great way to work on fine motor skills.

Winter Sensory Bin: What You'll Need

Like I mentioned above, this winter sensory box is one of our classic dump and play style sensory bins where you simply dump all of the materials into a large plastic container and start playing. No extra set up is required!

Here's what we used for this snow inspired sensory bin:

• Cotton balls - They'll be the base for this sensory bin since they look like little snowballs. You can usually pick up a bag of these for super cheap at the dollar store. How much you'll need will depend on the size of your container.

• Winter foam shapes - I added snowflakes and glitter snowmen that I found at our local Dollarama.

• Fine motor tools for scooping - We like this fine motor tool set, but you can also just use tongs, scoops, and spoons from your kitchen.

To set up the sensory bin, add the cotton balls to a large plastic container. Then add the winter foam shapes on top, like so:

Toddlers & Preschoolers Will Love this Wintery Cotton Ball Sensory Bin!

Personally, I always like to set the fine motor tools outside of the sensory bin container. However, you can toss them in too, if you'd prefer. As you can see below, I've included a pair of squeeze tongs, a pair of scissor tongs, and a small plastic cup.

Since the scissor tongs have been a favorite for my kids for years, it was no surprise that my youngest K went straight for them. He wanted to scoop up all of the "snowballs," as he called the cotton balls.

And he liked to use them to chomp the snowmen's heads (see below). Unrelated, but check out those eyelashes on K! Also, the shirt he's wearing seems fitting too...It says official hot chocolate taster. There's nothing better than some hot chocolate on a cold, snowy day.

Anyway, back to the sensory bin...He enjoyed picking up the different snowflakes, one by one, with the scissor tongs.

However, it wasn't long before K ditched the fine motor tools altogether, opting instead for some bigger tactile sensory exploration. Seriously, it's not unusual for my kids to eventually climb into sensory bins or get their full body involved in some way.

Soon he was picking up armfuls of snowballs...

...and dropping them to let it snow. Of course, this would be repeated for quite some time.

Overall, this winter sensory bin was a huge hit for my son. But that's not surprising considering we put this bin together after the success of this Christmas sensory bin that uses similar materials.

10 Ways for Kids to Play with Plastic Fruit Cups {Boredom Busters for Kids}

There's always consistently lots and lots of plastic fruit cups in my recycling bin. I do like to hoard them though. Simply because they are versatile for kids to play and learn with. They also work amazing on the light table, if you have one. If not, then no worries because these 10 simple ways to play and learn with recycled fruit cups don't require much extra in terms of supplies.

So whether you want to work on fine motor skills or make music or practice counting, these easy boredom buster ideas for kids are great for kids of all ages!

If you aren't already hoarding these plastic cups like I am, then start saving them throughout the school year! You can use yogurt containers, applesauce containers, or even those individual sized fruit cups.

{Click here to read the full post on CBC Parents.}

Scarf Sensory Bin

Looking for scarf activities for preschoolers or toddlers? Try this simple scarf sensory bin activity!

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Sensory bins don't need to be elaborate or fancy. Sometimes keeping things simple goes a long way.

Personally, I find that I learn a lot about my children's personalities with simple activities like this scarf sensory bin because they both tend to explore the same materials in such different ways. For instance, one might count the scarves or turn the scarves into letters (that's hyperlexia and hypernumeracy for you!), while the other might throw the scarves around or get dressed up in them.

Seriously, you might be surprised by how engaging a simple activity like this one is for kids, regardless of their age. It's baby friendly and great for toddlers and preschoolers. It also includes a variety of different textures and colors, offering lots of great tactile and visual sensory input.

What You'll Need for this Scarf Sensory Bin

This sensory bin requires zero prep. Simply grab the materials, which in this case are scarves, and add them to a large plastic bin. I'm all about using what I have on hand so I used my personal collection of infinity scarves.

Of course, there are lots of different types of scarves that you could include in your sensory bin. You could even mix and match a variety of different types to offer more textures, colors, and fabrics. For instance, you could use:

• Winter scarves - They come in a wide variety of textures, patterns, and materials. Some even have some embellishments like fringes.

• Play silks - Yes, they're more expensive than the other options on this list, but they're luxurious and quite large.

• Juggling/sensory scarves - They're super lightweight and come in a variety of bright colors.

• Bandanas - They come in lots of different colors.

Scarves are fun for kids to play with for a variety of reasons. There are so many bright colors, fun patterns, different textures, and neat embellishments such as fringes to explore. So it offers a lot of tactical and visual sensory input in one bin!

Here's a closer look at what our scarf sensory bin looked like:

Time for Some Scarf Play!

It was interesting to see how four year old K played with this sensory bin. First, he carried the bin of scarves around, which turns out to be a great heavy work idea for kids. I mean look how far he had to stretch his arms to carry it around!

He then decided to throw the scarves around from a variety of places, including standing on a chair. At one point, I was required to hold the bin on top of my head so that he could toss the scarves in. I obliged, of course, because why not?

K also loved laying in the bin of scarves (both boys love full body sensory exploration like this!). And I admit it looked really comfortable! If I could fit, then I would certainly give it a try as well, but, alas, I do not fit.

After laying around in the sensory bin for a while, he decided to start sorting and throwing out all the scarves, which he had so much fun doing!

While, admittedly, this scarf sensory bin is such a simple idea, it was incredibly engaging for my son. He had so much fun playing with all of the different scarves.

8 Tips for Using Food for Sensory Play That Aren't Wasteful

We like to use food items for sensory play in our house. There are lots of non-food sensory bin fillers that you can use (see 50 here and 50 more here), but sometimes nothing beats the sensory exploration of rice, oats, or beans. However, we try to use food items in such a way that it is not wasteful and will reuse the same sensory bin fillers over and over. So here are my 8 tips for using food for sensory play that aren't wasteful.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.

Sensory Play Tip #1: Use expired food items

Raid your pantry to see if you have any food items that have expired. They're no longer good to eat and you're liking considering tossing them out for good anyway, but wait! Those expired food items are the perfect items to use for sensory play.

Have a bag of expired oats? Dye them! Have a bag of expired rice? Dye that too! Those dried chickpeas that are a few months old? Dye them too!

By repurposing expired food items for sensory play, you are saving yourself from purchasing a bag of rice solely for the purpose of sensory play. You are also avoiding wasting food by simply tossing it out because it has passed its expiry date.

Examples: Rainbow Dyed Puffed Wheat was made with cereal that was over two years old or this tape resist mirror play used expired Cool Whip.

Sensory Play Tip #2: Use peels and inedible portions of food items

Apple peels, potato peels, carrot peels, egg shells, carrot tops, or even melon rinds are all wonderful items for sensory play. You're likely going to toss or compost these items, but before you do, let the kids feel them, smell them, look at them, lick them (if appropriate), etc.

Examples: Carrot Shavings Sensory Play (from House of Burke)

Sensory Play Tip #3: Involve them in the grocery shopping or gardening

The grocery store itself is a perfect way to use food for sensory play. Buying a watermelon? Have them use their nose, hands, and eyes to pick the perfect watermelon. Need a jug of milk? Let them open up the cooler section to feel the cold air in this section. You can even give the kids some proprioceptive sensory input by having them lift heavy objects or bringing the bags of groceries into the house. Or if you are at a store that does taste tests (like Costco, for example), then let them sample the food items to engage their sense of taste.

Gardening is also a great way to encourage sensory play, so be sure to let them dig in the dirt alongside you.

Sensory Play Tip #4: Let them play with their food at mealtimes

We all know that saying, "Don't play with your food," but I don't really pay attention to it most of the time. Why? Because I frankly don't care how the kids get the food into their mouth (hands vs. utensils) as long as they're eventually eating it. So try skipping the utensils at mealtimes and letting them use their hands to explore the different textures and smells while eating. Offer them a variety of finger foods with a variety of textures like dry crackers, slimy kiwi slices, mushy banana slices, or sticks of spicy pepperoni. Encourage them to smell the different food items before tasting them too.

Sensory Play Tip #5: Reuse sensory bin fillers over and over

We use the same sensory bin fillers over and over, sometimes over the course of months or even years. So those dyed chickpeas we made? We still play with that exact same batch over a year later. And that dyed coconut? Again, over a year old.

To reuse sensory bin fillers, we simply store the materials in an airtight container or in a zipper seal bag. Then we store in a dry, cool place until the next time we want to use it.

Sensory Play Tip #6: Share your sensory bin stash after your children outgrow it

When your children outgrow the sensory materials that you have collected and stored (or perhaps they don't even like the texture of a particular material), then consider donating and sharing it with others. Donate your unused sensory bin fillers to a preschool, a daycare, a friend, or any other early childhood facility to reuse. Recycle that sensory collection!

Sensory Play Tip #7: Incorporate sensory play into cooking, baking, and meal prep times

There's no need to create a sensory stash of dyed oats and chickpeas, etc. because you can easily incorporate sensory into cooking, baking, and meal prep times. For example, your children could knead pizza or bread dough. Or they could lick the spoon after making chocolate cake. Let them smell spice containers as you cook. Or they can scoop and measure the flour for a recipe. You likely know how messy scooping flour can be with little kids and they will inevitably get some flour on their hands or arms. That right there is sensory play.

Sensory Play Tip #8: Use a splat mat to reduce waste

When we play with sensory bins, I always use a shower curtain as a splat mat on the floor. It not only helps to protect the floor or carpet if we are using something really messy and colorful, but it also catches and contains any sensory bin fillers that may spill out during sensory play. When the kids are done playing, I simply pick up the shower curtain and shake the items back into the sensory bin before putting the materials away for storage.

Examples: See our splat mat in action here. I simply just picked up the mat, shook the coconut back into the bin, and then reused it. In contrast, you can see how not using a splat mat creates more waste here.

Other Ideas You'll Love

50 Non-Food Sensory Bin Fillers with Free Printable

50 More Non-Food Sensory Bin Fillers with Free Printable

Water Bead Sensory Activities for Kids

50 More Non-Food Sensory Bin Fillers {Free Printable List}

The benefits of sensory play for kids are aplenty. However, many parents and educators are opposed to using food for sensory play. That's why I have already compiled a thorough list of 50 non-food sensory bin fillers to try with kids, but I simply couldn't stop there. There's even more options to consider! So here are 50 MORE non-food sensory bin fillers for kids. Again, I've included a free printable list for your reference. So from sponges to pool noodles to lotion, this list of sensory materials is going to have you reconsidering using food for sensory play. Or at least it will have you thinking outside the (sensory) box.

This post contains affiliate links.

50 Non-Food Sensory Bin Fillers for Kids

1. Cut up sponges or shaped sponges

Sponges are a great sensory bin filler because they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. Either cut them up into little blocks or shapes or try shaped sponges like these alphabet sponges.

Ideas to try: Alphabet Sponges Sensory Bin | Sponge Shapes Sensory Bin | Sponges & Water Sensory Bin

2. Baby powder

Soft and fluffy, baby powder would make a great, although messy, sensory bin filler. 

3. Lace

Fabric based sensory bins are great for babies or small toddlers, so try using lace instead.

4. Flex mesh tube ribbon or crinoline rope

These are fun to stretch, pull, twist, throw, and more. You can usually find them in the dollar store.

Ideas to try: Halloween Snakes | Crinoline Rope Sensory Bin for Light Table

5. Wood chips

Wood chips are an interesting hard, rough texture for little hands to explore. They work great for any kind of forest, farm, or construction type sensory bin.

Ideas to try: Small World Stables | Wood Chips Construction Site | Wood Chips & Trucks Sensory Bin

6. Tree bark

Another great rough texture for kids to play and explore with. Bark is lovely paired with moss in a sensory bin.

7. Broken crayons

Who doesn't have lots of broken crayons kicking around the house? Well, try them as a sensory bin filler.

Ideas to try: Monster Mash Small World

8. Silly string

I remember silly string being so much fun as kid so I think it would be a lot of fun as a sensory bin filler.

9. Slime

Slime would make a great sensory bin filler for any kind of oozy swamp or sewer like sensory bin. Ninja Turtles small world with slime is the first thing that comes to my mind!

Ideas to try: Fluffy Slime | Earth Day Slime | Candy Corn Sensory Slime

10. Bubble wrap

Kids loooooove bubble wrap. Okay, adults love popping the stuff too, so why not try it as a sensory bin filler. It's a great way to recycle and work on fine motor skills.

Ideas to try: Space Themed Sensory Bin Game | Polar Small World Sensory Bin | Bubble Wrap Painting Sensory Bin

11. Acrylic vase fillers

One of my favorite sensory bin fillers to use is acrylic vase fillers. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures and there is always seasonal themed fillers in Michaels and dollar stores during holiday seasons.

Ideas to try: Apple Sensory Soup | Pirate Sensory Soup | Fall Leaves Soup

12. Plastic alphabet magnets or alphabet beads

The easiest way to encourage literacy through sensory play is to create a sensory bin using plastic alphabet magnets or beads as the base.

Ideas to try: Alphabet Soup Sensory Bin | Alphabet Sensory Bin | Fishing for Letters Sensory Bin | Alphabet Ice Cube Sensory Bin

13. Milk jug lids

Recycle those lids and add them to your sensory stash! Try writing sight words or letters or math equations on the lids to sneak in some extra learning.

Ideas to try: Sensory Bottle Top Bubble Soup | Bottle Top Soup | Milk Jug Lids Sensory Bin

14. Cut up pipe cleaners

The fuzzy texture of pipe cleaners is great for a sensory bin filler, but kids will also love exploring the magnetic properties of the pipe cleaners as they play.

Ideas to try: Pipe Cleaner Magnetic Water Bin

15. Pinecones

Another great natural material to use in sensory bins is pinecones. They have such an interesting texture!

Ideas to try: Pinecone Sensory Soup | Evergreen Sensory Science Bin | Spring Sensory Bin

16. Gift bows

You can easily whip up a sparkly, crinkly sensory bin using gift bows. They work great for Christmas or birthday themed sensory bin fillers.

Ideas to try: Christmas Themed Sensory Bin | Dollar Store Christmas Sensory Bin | Gift Bows Sensory Bin

17. Water balloons

Squishy and cool, water balloons are a fun sensory bin filler for kids. You can also write sight words, math equations, letters, etc. on the balloons to sneaky in some extra learning.

Ideas to try: Frozen Water Beads in Water Balloons | Sensory Play with Water Balloons | Water Balloons Sensory Bath

18. Foam shapes, letters, or numbers

You can find all sorts of foam shapes, letters, or numbers. They also come in a variety of sizes, colors, and textures, making them an awesome sensory bin filler. Add some water for some extra fun!

Ideas to try: Bugs by the Number Sensory Bin | ABC Sensory Bin

19. Bingo chips

Try bingo chips in a sensory bin! They can be a lot of fun for kids to try and scoop up, especially in water.

Ideas to try: Water Play with Magnetic Counters | Polka Dot Soup | St. Patrick's Day Sensory Bin

20. Makeup sponges

You can usually buy a bag of makeup sponges at the dollar store, making them a pretty frugal sensory bin filler.

21. Costume jewelry

Raid your dress up bin for some costume jewelry and try it as a sensory bin filler.

Ideas to try: Thrift Store Sensory Bin | Mardi Gras Sensory bin (just skip the rice)

22. Moss

Natural materials always make a great sensory bin filler because they're usually plentiful and are always free. Moss would be wonderful for a rainforest sensory bin or a fairy small world, for example.

Ideas to try: Native American Small World | 2 Sensory Bin Ideas with Moss

23. Lotion

The smooth, creamy texture of lotion, paired with a scent and/or color, can make for a lovely, but messy, sensory bin filler.

24. Sawdust

I love the smell of sawdust! It also feels like no other texture.

Ideas to try: Sawdust Sensory Bin

25. Mini erasers

You can find all sorts of mini erasers, especially at the dollar store. Grab some seasonal ones to make quick and easy holiday themed sensory bins.

Ideas to try: Spring Sensory Bin | Fairies & Flowers Sensory Bin

26. Toothpaste

Stock up on some dollar store toothpaste and let the kids explore the texture. Kids will love to help squeeze the toothpaste out of the tube and into the sensory bin.

Ideas to try: Dental Health Month Sensory Bin

27. Clay

Try some colorful modeling clay, air dry clay, or try some more natural clay as a sensory bin filler. It's a great way to encourage fine motor skills, stamping, print making, and more!

Ideas to try: Clay & Letter Stamps | Ocean Themed Clay Sensory Activity

28. Silly putty

Silly putty is a lot of fun to play with and kids will love it as part of a sensory bin.

Ideas to try: Silly Putty Sensory Bin | Silly Putty Light Table Play

29. Paper clips

Paper clips are a great sensory bin filler for exploring magnetic properties and working on fine motor skills (by linking the clips together).

Ideas to try: Magnetic Exploration Sensory Bin | Magnet Sensory Bin

30. Plastic baby links

A perfect first sensory bin filler for babies would be those plastic baby links. They come in a variety of colors and textures.

Ideas to try: Color Stacking Boat Sensory Bin | Baby's First Sensory Bin

31. Cut up pool noodles

Try cutting up some pool noodles and filling a sensory bin with them. Sneak in some literacy learning by writing some sight words or letters on the pool noodles.

Ideas to try: Pool Noodle Boats Sensory Bin | Pool Noodle Sensory Bin | Seaside Sensory Bin | Floating Flowers

32. Plastic leis

Either the flower kind or the ruffled kind would work great in a sensory bin.

Ideas to try: Rainbow Tactile Sensory Bin | Beach Luau Water Bin | Rainbow Sensory Bin

33. Puzzle pieces

Perhaps you have some old puzzles that are missing some pieces? Well, upcycle them into a sensory bin filler.

Ideas to try: Puzzle Sensory Bin for Autism Awareness | Puzzle Pieces Sensory Bin

34. Confetti

Confetti is another fun sensory bin item. It is one that I could foresee my children throwing everywhere though, so be prepared!

Ideas to try: Confetti Sensory Bin | Spring Sensory Bin

35. Pot scrubbers

Look no further than your kitchen for an easy sensory bin filler. Those pot scrubbers have such a unique texture!

Ideas to try: Halloween Monster Sensory Bin

36. Balls of tin foil

Crumble up some tin foil and fill up a sensory bin with them. Or wrap up some objects in tin foil and let the kids work on fine motor skills as they unwrap the little "presents."

Ideas to try: Frozen Small World | Twinkle Twinkle Little Star Sensory Bin

37. Marbles

The smooth, cool texture of round marbles is appealing to a lot of kids. The kids will love seeing them roll around in a sensory bin.

Ideas to try: Tahitian Sensory Box | Easy Marbles Sensory Bin

38. Cut up cardboard tubes or toilet paper rolls

I hoard cardboard tubes like crazy. I never ever do anything with them it seems, but they would be awesome in a sensory bin!

Ideas to try: Cardboard Tube Sensory Bin

39. Sequins or large glitter

Want a little sparkle? A little glam? Some glitz? Try sequins or large glitter as a sensory bin filler.

Ideas to try: Christmas Sensory Bin | Sequins & Sand Sensory Bin

40. Plastic eggs

Plastic eggs are not just for Easter (at least in my mind). Fill up a plastic bin with them and let the kids have fun opening and closing them.

Ideas to try: Easter Egg Sensory Bin 6 Ways | Easter Sensory Bin 2 Ways | Rainbow Fine Motor Sensory Bin | Easter Egg Washing Sensory Bin

41. Paint

Try using either liquid paint or paint powder as a sensory bin filler.

Ideas to try: Soap Painting Sensory Bin | Sensory Paint Bin (could use washable paint instead)

42. Styrofoam balls

Styrofoam balls come in a variety of sizes and would make a great filler for winter themed sensory bins.

Ideas to try: "Snow" Sensory Bin | Wintry Learning Sensory Bins | Winter Sensory Bin | Winter Sensory Box 

43. Glow in the dark stars

Fill a bin with glow in the dark stars, turn off the lights, and let the kids' eyes lead the way.

44. Dandelions

Put those dandelions to good use! Fill up a bin and let the kids play.

Ideas to try: Outdoor Spring Sensory Bin | Sensory Spring Water Table | Dandelion Soup Sensory Bin

45. Chalk dust

Grate up some chalk and let the kids get messy (and dusty!) with chalk dust.

Ideas to try: Chalk Dust & Feather Writing

46. Googly eyes

My kids love googly eyes so I'm positive they would love a googly eyes sensory bin. Grab a variety of sizes and colors for some extra silliness.

Ideas to try: Googly Eye Soup | Spooky Googly Eye Glitter Water Bin | Monster Sensory Tub

47. Clean mud

Whip up a bath of clean mud for your next sensory bin!

Ideas to try: Fairy Mud | Ghost Mud | Rainbow Clean Mud

48. Floam or playfoam

Floam is crazy fun because of those little foam balls. What will you pair with floam?

Ideas to try: Crayon Floam Dough | DIY Styrofoam Cup Floam | Floam Sensory Bin

49. Plastic ice cubes

Try using reusable plastic ice cubes, either chilled or unchilled, for your next sensory bin filler. Kids will love stacking and sorting them. They also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, like these fruit ones.

Ideas to try: Simple Sensory Bin with Plastic Ice Cubes | Color Sorting Recycling Bin | Frozen Ice Cubes Sensory Bin

50. Pouch cap lids

We have never used any of those pouch cap products, but I know a lot of families do. And, as a result, I know they have collected a lot of lids over time. Put them to good use in a sensory bin!

Ideas to try: Pouch Caps Sensory Bin

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