I am labeling this post “A My First Sensory Bins” post because I am in hopes of doing more of these types of sensory bins that would be appropriate for the younger set. So, with a little luck and creativity you will hopefully see a series of “My First Sensory Bins” before too long 🙂
(This post contains affiliate links for your convenience).I was so thrilled to finally try this with C. I even thought of a cute name for it. The Alphabet Soup sensory bin! If only he were older and learning letters. Hmmm… I will have to make a mental note of that for later. Can you tell this mama is so proud of herself lol?
Supplies for My First Sensory Bin
- Plastic bin, tub or large bowl (plastic dishwashing tubs work great)
- Sassy Letter Links
- Silicone Colander
- Large Pasta Shells
I’ve had this idea in my back pocket for awhile but have been very nervous about letting the babes (who just turned 8 months) play with pasta of any kind for obvious reasons. Finally I decided to give it a whirl. I used the extra large pasta shells (you know the ones that you stuff) and mixed in his Sassy Letter Links
Even though I used the big shells I was still a tad worried about him biting off a piece. I WATCHED him like a HAWK the entire time just waiting at the ready to fish a piece of pasta out of his mouth. Thankfully I didn’t have to. He did taste test the first few shells. It was actually quite comical because he would take one shell out, mouth it a bit, put it down, take another shell out and repeat the process. After 5 or 6 shells he gave it up and just chewed on the letters.
What are these things anyway?
If you are thinking of doing this with your little one use your good judgement and supervise at all times. In general I would recommend this activity for a babe slightly older than C. I will have no problem pulling this one out again when he’s 10 or even 12 months old and beyond. The bigger shells are the PERFECT size for little hands. I decided to try it because 1. I wanted to give him a new experience and 2. I wanted to see how he would do with something like this, if he was ready for it. I felt comfortable enough because although he sucks on and mouths almost everything, he doesn’t have enough teeth yet to really bite into anything so ultimately I didn’t worry too too much that he would be able to bite off a chunk. If he gets really into an activity he’s more interested in playing than chewing anyway. He without a doubt completely enjoyed this one. You know your child best so play accordingly!
You can find the rest of the sensory bins in the “my first sensory bin” series listed below.
Happy Exploring!
Hi!
I came across your blog today in search of sensory activities that I can do with my little one. I really like your Baby sensory bag from another post of yours and this one is such a great idea, I love your sensory tub! Thanks for sharing 🙂
<3
Bee recently posted…Learning Activity – Water Manipulation
Hi Bee 🙂 So glad you found us and are finding some activities that you can enjoy with your little one! If you ever want to chat or have any questions be sure to pop over to our Facebook page. Glad you have you following along!
I am so glad I found your post. I was Googling around and was only find very elaborate sensory boxes that seemed way out of my wheelhouse. My 15th month old likes to chew on a sponge and run around with a spatula so I doubt he could appreciate a St. Patrick’s Day themed box. I feel like it is in reach now. Thanks!
Jackie Weisman recently posted…Why is it Not Friday?
Oh I’m so glad! If you try anything let me know how it works out. That is a hard age. I have a 19 month old at home that still mouths everything so I know how hard it can be. It is totally within reach though and definitely doesn’t have to be complicated. Good luck!