If you’re not familiar with sensory bins, it’s time to get involved! A sensory bin or sensory box is typically a container filled with carefully selected objects and materials to stimulate your toddler’s senses. Your little one can interact with unique objects, specifically designed to stimulate one of the five senses: Sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. You can DIY your own sensory bins at home, or you can purchase pre-made ones in the cutest themes and designs. Here are 5 reasons to start using sensory bins with your young toddlers!
Nature-themed sensory bin from Piper James Co.
01. Sensory bins allow your child to explore their senses without having to leave home.
Sensory boxes don’t take up a lot of space, so they’re perfect for at-home play. Your toddler will be able to experience new materials, smells, and textures in a way that still feels like they’re just playing with a toy! It’s educational and easy, therefore a win, win for parents! Common materials that are used in sensory bins include dry pasta, pom poms, shredded paper, sand, figurines, colored rice, buttons, and more.
02. They’re great at entertaining toddlers for long periods of time.
If you have a toddler, you’re probably familiar with them moving on from one activity to the next at a rapid pace. As a parent, it can be difficult to keep up! A sensory bin or sensory box will keep them entertained for longer chunks of time. Some parents even report their child engaging in hours of independent play with a sensory box. You’re welcome!
Unicorn & rainbow sensory box from Piper James Co.
03. Sensory bins can help your toddlers start to develop language and fine motor skills.
Your child will build their language skills through describing their play experience. Ask them questions about the items they’re playing with and engage with them during and after the sensory experience to help them develop communication skills. They’ll also be improving their fine motor skills by playing with and manipulating small objects!
04. They can help your child develop their imagination skills.
With so much creative variety available in different sensory bins, your child will be able to get creative and work on their imagination skills! Think of imagination as a muscle – Working your child’s imagination will only make it stronger!
Farm-themed sensory box from Piper James Co.
05. Sensory bins can be customized to your child’s unique interests.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to personalizing your toddler’s sensory box. If they’re interested in animals, try a farm-themed sensory box! If they love rainbows and glitter, try a unicorn-themed sensory bin!
Woodland-themed sensory bin from Piper James Co.
If you’re looking for a new way to entertain your toddlers while also setting them up for success in the future, it might be time to create or invest in a sensory bin! We love the options and custom details in these sensory bins from Piper James Co. Therefore, they also make the perfect gift for the young moms in your life! Comment below and let us know if you’ve tried sensory bins before, and how your experience went! Follow along with our family and motherhood blog for more toddler parenting tips and new mom must-haves.