Let’s talk all things edible sensory bins. If you’re new here, I’m a BIG fan of sensory play for all ages. However, it is difficult to do sensory play with babies + toddlers who are still mouthing. In comes, edible sensory bin fillers!
Most of the time when you see sensory bins, they are full of tiny pieces. As a first time mom all I could see was choking hazards. But, as an early childhood educator I knew the benefits of sensory play and I wanted to incorporate it into our day. I went on a hunt for sensory bin fillers that my toddler could taste without choking and that wasn’t straight sugar.
I’ve compiled my master list so you don’t have to dig like I did. If you want to see my master list of all sensory bin fillers, you can check that out here. You can click here or on the image below to download the complete list.
I’m going to warn you now that edible sensory bins tend to be messier than some other items you could use. These are great sensory bins for outside! I love using these bins because they have lids so I can easily transport my bin without making a mess.
Edible Sensory Bin Filler Ideas:
- Cooked Noodles – I prefer spaghetti noodles but you could use any!
- Cereal – I love using smashed cheerios to create edible “sand.” Again, you could use any cereal that works with your age kiddo!
- Sprinkles
- Crackers – Another food item that works great crushed. For easy, mess-free crushing, add your crackers to a ziploc bag and smush them up. Let your toddler go to town! The ziploc will contain the mess and you can just pour straight into your sensory bin.
- Puffs – This one is especially great for young babies
- Edible Playdough – Yogurt + Cornstarch mixed together
- Eggs – Scrambled up or hard boiled
- Pudding
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Pureed Food – store bought or homemade
- Jell-O
- Ice
- Water – You can add slices of lemon, lime or orange for fun!
- Whipped Cream
- Cool Whip
- Mashed Potato
- Oatmeal
- Rice
- Snow
- Ice Cream
- Edible Slimes – Check out jello slime, pudding slime, or cereal slime!
Edible sensory bins are SO much fun for littles! If you have an edible sensory bin filler that you love for your little(s) that isn’t included on this list, leave it in the comments below! As always, I love seeing the sensory bins you create, tag me on Instagram @sunshineinprimary.
