How to Use Sensory Bins

Sensory bins are the greatest!
What better way to engage children in a fun activity that has limitless
ways to learn across a wide variety of subjects?

When little learners are exploring sensory bins I love to ask question like:

Can you find items that have something in common?  You never know what brilliant observation a child's mind will find!
Do you see four round items? Something that rhymes with flat? 
How many scoop of rice do you estimate it would take to fill the cup?
How many items can you stack and balance before they fall?
How many objects can you move with the tongs?
Will you tell me a story about these items?
Can you make a pattern?  Copy the pattern I just made?

Sensory boxes are designed to solidify learning through meaningful and stimulating experiences.

Sensory boxes do not get boring. They are engaging for children young and old. T

hey are good for solitary play and group play.

They can be used for home and for classrooms. Children learn through play!

Sensory bins/boxes should contain a mix of items that differ in texture, size, shape and more.

Sensory bins/boxes should stimulate language, mathematics, higher level thinking, social/emotional skills and more. 
Sensory bins should be filled with age and developmentally appropriate objects.
(i.e., no choking hazards for young children, objects that inspire higher level thinking)

Looking at these sensory bins below, what questions can you think to engage your child?

Leave them in the comment section to help other parents and educators.