How To Use Sensory Bins

Sensory bins are fantastic! We have been using sensory bins and fillers in our home for years. They are a fun and engaging way for kids to learn through hands-on experiences, play, and sensory exploration. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, knowing how to use sensory bins can enhance a child's play. These bins help children develop fine motor skills, language, creativity, and emotional regulation— all while having fun.

In this guide, we’ll explain what sensory bins are, how to use them step by step, and how to make the most of them at home or in the classroom.

What Is a Sensory Bin?

A sensory bin is a container filled with materials designed for sensory exploration, known as sensory bin fillers. These materials encourage children to explore using their senses, which include touch, sight, sound, and sometimes smell. Sensory bins often have a theme and may contain tools such as scoops, cups, tongs, and small toys. Many parents worry about the mess that comes with sensory bins. However, it’s important to remember that there are ways to manage it. Kids can use them outside, we can remind children to keep the fillers in the tray, and we can set realistic expectations. Using a sheet or a shower curtain underneath the bin can also help make cleanup easier.

They are commonly used for:

- Toddlers and preschoolers
- Fine motor skill development
- Sensory regulation
- Early learning and imaginative play

Benefits of Using Sensory Bins

Understanding why sensory bins are so effective can help you learn how to use them. 

Key Benefits of Sensory Bins:

- Strengthen fine motor skills
- Support sensory processing and regulation
- Encourage independent and imaginative play
- Build vocabulary and language skills
- Promote focus and calmness
- Support learning through play

Sensory bins are especially helpful for toddlers, preschoolers, and children with autism or sensory processing differences.

How to Use Sensory Bins: Step-by-Step

1. Choose the Right Sensory Bin Container

Start with a shallow plastic bin or tray for easy access. Clear containers are great since children can see the materials inside.

Tip: For toddlers, select bins with rounded edges and enough space for hands to move freely.

2. Select Sensory Bin Fillers

Sensory bin fillers are essential for sensory play. Choose fillers based on your child’s age, sensory needs, and interests.

Popular sensory bin fillers include:

- Rice or colored rice
- Beans or lentils
- Pasta
- Wooden or natural materials
- Pom-poms or felt balls
- Sand or kinetic sand
- Corn kernels or dried chickpeas

For younger toddlers, use larger fillers that are safe and always supervise their play.

3. Add Tools for Fine Motor Development

Tools help children practice skills like grasping, scooping, pouring, and transferring— all vital for fine motor development.

Common sensory bin tools:

- Scoops and spoons
- Measuring cups
- Tongs or tweezers
- Small bowls or containers
- Funnels

Rotate tools to keep the sensory bin fun and challenging.

4. Introduce a Theme (Optional but Effective)

Themed sensory bins guide play and support learning.

Popular themes include:

- Farm
- Ocean
- Construction
- Dinosaurs
- Alphabet or numbers
- Seasonal (fall, winter, spring)

Themes are particularly helpful for preschoolers and in classroom settings.

5. Set Expectations and Boundaries

Before starting, explain simple rules:

- Keep materials in the bin
- Use gentle hands
- Clean up together when done

This helps children feel confident and reduces stress related to mess.

6. Let Your Child Lead the Play

One key aspect of sensory bins is allowing open-ended play. Avoid directing every action.

Instead:

- Observe
- Ask open-ended questions
- Describe what your child is doing
- Model new ways to explore if needed

Examples:

“I see you pouring the rice into the cup.”

“What happens if we use the bigger scoop?”

How Long Should a Child Use a Sensory Bin?

There is no “right” amount of time.

Some children may engage for 5–10 minutes.

Others may play for 30 minutes or more.

Follow your child’s interest and stop when they lose focus or seem overwhelmed.

How Often Should You Use Sensory Bins?

Sensory bins can be used:

- Daily as part of a play routine
- A few times a week
- As a calm-down or transition activity

Rotating fillers or themes keeps sensory bins fresh and exciting without needing new materials every time.

Using Sensory Bins for Learning

Sensory bins are not just for play; they are also great learning tools.

Skills Supported by Sensory Bins:

- Counting and sorting
- Color recognition
- Letter and number identification
- Early math concepts
- Language development

For instance, adding letters to a sensory bin promotes literacy while still feeling like play.

Sensory Bins for Toddlers vs. Preschoolers

For Toddlers:

- Use larger fillers
- Keep themes simple
- Focus on scooping, pouring, and exploring textures

For Preschoolers:

- Add themed objects
- Introduce sorting or matching tasks
- Encourage imaginative storytelling

Safety Tips for Sensory Bin Play

- Always supervise young children
- Avoid small fillers for kids who mouth objects
- Wash hands after play
- Store sensory bins sealed when not in use

Why Ready-Made Sensory Bins Save Time

While you can make your own sensory bins, ready-made ones save time and ensure safety. They also provide cohesive themes designed for learning.

They are particularly helpful for:

- Busy parents
- Teachers and classrooms
- Therapists
- Gift-giving

Final Thoughts: Making Sensory Play Simple

Using sensory bins does not require complicated setups or expensive materials. With the right fillers, tools, and a child-led approach, sensory bins can effectively support development through play.

Whether you're using them at home, in a classroom, or during therapy, sensory bins offer endless opportunities for exploration, learning, and joy.

---