With the weather warming up, the kids have gotten interested in all the flowers growing outdoors. Inspired by our surroundings, I created a gardening sensory bin for my kids to explore. It was easy to do and the kids got to get their hands dirty and a do a little Spring “planting” of their own. Read on to see how simple it is to create an outdoor sensory play experience. For more fun with sensory bins check out Simple Sensory Bin Ideas.
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You will need:
- Soil
- Flowers (artificial or cut)
- Rocks
- Shovels
- Pots
- Plastic bin
I bought a bag of potting soil and dumped it in a bin. I added some rocks and artificial flowers and gave the kids some shovels and pots.
I was curious to see how they would explore the soil in the sensory bin. One of my twins was loving the feeling of the soil on her hands as she poked holes to “plant” some flowers. She also had fun fishing out the rocks and counting them.
My youngest loved scooping the dirt with her shovel into a pot. She did this very carefully so she would not spill any dirt on the ground.
She worked diligently until she filled up the entire pot.
She then proceeded to “plant” some flowers in her pot.
The garden bin was a hit! If you do this with your kids make sure you take time to stop and smell the flowers.
For more fun sensory activities check out:
Creative Play with Water Beads
We link up at these great parties.
Barbara Leyne says
This is a great activity!
Melinda says
Popped over from Nester.
I may try this with my students.
M 🙂
Melinda says
Sorry wrong blog. I came over from Tatortots.
M 🙂
Diana - FreeStyleMama says
Fun!!!
OUR HOME OF MANY BLESSINGS says
We love Sensory Bins! I would love it if you would share your sensory ideas at my Sensory Bin Play Link Up!http://ourhomeofmanyblessings.com/sensory-bin-ideas/
Barb says
I love this idea! How did you store your bin? Just with a lid and how long would you say it lasted? I have a lid for mine and I don’t want it to get icky before I get rid of it.
Thank you!
Vicky says
Barb, I stored it with the cover on in the shade. It lasted a few weeks. Hope you have fun with it!
Gaby says
Loved it! I would add some plastic worms and insects for more fun 😉
SmithenWesson says
what kind of soil do you use? [we live in a big city, so no back yards]. I’m clueless when I get to Home Depot or Osh Hardware, what kind of soil?
Vicky says
Just an ordinary basic potting soil will work. It is usually the cheapest one they sell.