Hi crafty friends! It’s been awhile since I’ve shared a sensory bin idea on the blog – but I’m putting an end to that today. This post is all about the Snowman Sensory Bin I recently put together for my son. Although we haven’t had much snow in Wyoming this season {knock on wood because it’s VERY unusual} we have been enjoying making our own wintery friends, inside the comfort of our home. Of course, this version is mess-free {for the most part} and no need to bundle up either! I say it’s a win-win!

If you don’t know what a sensory bin is – it’s basically a small plastic bin full of different materials that stimulate the various senses {touch, smell, hear, see and sometimes taste} and allow the child to explore in a small contained area. Sometimes these bins have a theme but they don’t necessarily have to have one. I personally love the ideas of doing themes though so I can center them around books & certain holidays. I like to tie things in so it’s like a full day of learning.

Besides keeping my son occupied for a good 30 minutes – sensory bins are great for developing his fine motor skills, thinking skills, vocab and also giving him a creative outlet, with problem solving as well. Best part is that a lot of times you can find the materials/supplies for the bins for cheap and you can reuse them in several different themes.

So follow my step-by-step tutorial below, so you TOO can pull this EASY Snowman Sensory Bin together in minutes! Stay warm my friends! #gluedtomycrafts

Supplies:

* Large Plastic Bin
* White Shredded Paper {Dollar Tree}
* Plastic Snowflakes {Hobby Lobby}
* Bells
* Small Felt Santa Hats {Hobby Lobby}
* Felt Black Hats {Hobby Lobby}
* Plastic Trees {Michaels}
* Practice Golf Balls
* Black & Orange Sharpies
* Wood Star Cutouts

Directions:

* Using your sharpies, paint on snowman faces to the practice golf balls. Let dry completely.
* Then throw all your materials in the bin. Mix it up and hand it over!
* Kids can explore and name off items have they pull things out. Grab some snowman themed children’s books to tie the theme together!