Why You Need To Use Rice Sensory Bins
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Nope, I’m not crazy! Rice actually is a fantastic sensory bin filler for toddlers and kids for so many reasons!
And I know the thought of giving your kiddo a bin or rice sounds dangerous and messy, but it really isn’t that bad!
In this post, I explain all about using rice sensory bins with your kiddos and the benefits in doing so.
Benefits of Rice Sensory Bins
Rice is small so it helps children develop fine motor control, for example, scooping it up with their hands, using their fingers to pick up individual rice grains. When children are using cups, spoons, etc. they are practicing hand-eye coordination and also learning about capacity and estimation. Kiddos can also practice picking up individual grains of rice.
In addition to the fine motor and tactile experience, children also are smelling the rice and hearing the sound that the rice makes as they dump it through a funnel or other tool. You can also let your child taste the rice to make another connection. The good news, dry rice probably won’t taste too good, so you won’t have to worry about them putting it in their mouth again! I always make sure that my children know that they can’t just taste a sensory bin filler without asking if it is okay first. I do use some edible sensory bin fillers because I want them to explore the taste component, especially since my son is an EXTREMELY picky eater, but don’t just want them tasting anything. They know to ask. The stimulation of multiple senses creates a significant learning opportunity.
Also, handing rice has a calming effect to it. If you have ever run dry rice through your fingers, you will know exactly what I am talking about!
What age should you start using a rice sensory box?
Children of any age can benefit from using a rice sensory bin.
The only age group I warn against using a rice sensory bin is babies because they tend to put most things in their mouths. Other than that, there is no limit on age. Even older children can benefit!
Tools To Use In Rice Sensory Bins
Here are some sensory bin tools that my children use in their sensory bins. Some of these items you may already have laying around the house. Many kid-friendly tools already in your kitchen will work too! If you are interested in any of the tools below, just click to see it on Amazon and the related listings.
Cleanup Sensory Bin Ideas
Yes, you will probably find rice scattered across the table or floor, and that is okay! I always place a plastic tablecloth or old bath towel underneath the bin so I can just fold and dump the rice back into the bin or shake it into the garbage.
These plastic tablecloths below come in a pack of 12. I reuse the tablecloths until they are dirty or ripped. A 12 pack will last a long time!
How To Make Rainbow Rice
The rice that you use in sensory bins does not have to be fancy, but for special occasions, I like to spice it up a bit! If you are wondering how to color rice, check out my YouTube video and download the free one-page guide! A colored rice sensory bin can be so much fun and adds a visual component to learning.
Grab the free downloadable guide here!
Below is an example of my St. Patrick’s Day rainbow rice sensory bin! My kiddos LOVED mixing up the colors.
Related Blog Posts You May Also Like:
Quick & Easy Dollar Store Sensory Bins
The Sensory Bins Master Guide & a Freebie
What You Need To Know About Play-Based Learning
The Sensory Bin Kit For Kindergarten And Preschool!
Rice Sensory Bins In Summary
Rice is a simple, fun, and beneficial sensory bin filler to use with your kids.
I’d like to invite you to join my Sensory Bins Simplified Facebook Community for weekly tips, inspiration, and ideas based around sensory bins. Click the button below!
Enjoy and see you next week!