Sensory Play Bottles, Bags, and Bins for Children

My son is autistic, so I have been looking for better ways to give him stimulating play that is productive. I finally made a trip to Dollar Tree to get items to make sensory play items, which are suggested for special needs children. I saw a million different versions of these on Pinterest, so I took those ideas and created my own!

Sensory Play Bottles

Materials:

• clear plastic bottles
• strong glue/glue gun
• water, gel (I used cheap hair gel), and possibly oil (preferably clear)
• craft items to put into bottles, such as glitter, googly eyes, pom poms, beads, etc. Can even use pasta (like the bottle on the far left).
• food coloring (optional)

Steps:

1. Clean bottles and remove any labels and sticky residue from the outside of the bottles. I used SmartWater bottles because of the clean shape and size.
2. Add water and/or gel. I would suggest adding smaller amounts and test it out first. You don't want too much gel because the items will not move. Adding water will help loosen up the gel. If you are using food coloring, add a drop or two to the mixture and mix up.
3. Add desired items to the bottle. I made themes for the bottles, such as a outdoors bottle with rubber frogs and flowers.
4. Once you have the right amount of liquid to allow the items inside to move, then apply glue around the top of the bottle and screw the cap on over it.
5. Let dry overnight and then let you child enjoy!

Sensory Bags

Materials:

• Strong quart-sized freezer bags
• Clear gel, such as hair gel
• Craft items, such as foam shapes, googly eyes, beads, action figures, glitter, etc.
• Clear packing tape

Steps:

1. Add desired items to the storage bags.
2. Add enough gel to cover the items.
3. Close bag, removing as much air as possible.
4. Spread out gel and items, making sure there is enough gel.
5. Once finished, fold over the opening of the bag and tape with the packing tape to ensure your child doesn't accidentally open it.
6. Enjoy!

Sensory Bins

Materials:

• Plastic bins with lids
• Dried beans, rice, sand, etc.
• Glass beads, pom poms, action figures, etc.
• Scoops, spoons, measuring cups, etc.

Steps:

1. Add rice/beans/sand to the storage bin.
2. Add desired items to the bin.
3. Enjoy!

Structured Play Suggestions

To make the play time for your child more structured, you can always play hide and seek with the items in the bins, or have your child find certain items in the bags or bottles. You can also make some dry bottles to turn into instruments! 

I was able to make all of these items for under $30, and I still have supplies left! Enjoy!