Have you used sensory bags with your kids? If not, chances are if your little one is in school, they’ve already experienced these fun teaching tools. But what exactly is a sensory bag? These simple, mess free contraptions look like they are just for fun, but are really allowing kids to learn through exploration and engagement all of their senses.

Because the bags are sealed, they’re portable! Perfect for car rides, waiting rooms or any other locations where your kids need some entertainment. They are a fun way to use up left over decorations or left over art supplies. Create learning by using themes such as color, holidays, plants, animals, letters…the list goes on and on! Or mix up your items and create a search game for the different objects – there’s no wrong answer, only fun!

What you’ll need:

• seal-able bag, like a large sandwich bag
• colorful duct tape
• corn syrup
• food coloring
• small shapes, large glitter, small glitter, pom poms, faux leaves or flowers, buttons, beads…any small object can be used!

Instructions:

• Fill the bag 3/4 full with corn syrup (test out the capacity of the bag by sealing it and laying it flat. Adjust the amount of syrup so that it’s squishy, but not overfilled).
• Add food coloring to desired hue
• Sprinkle in glitter
• Add in objects. Create themed bags or fill with different items, there’s no wrong answer!
• Seal the bag most of the way and gently squeeze out remaining air. Use duct tape to seal the zipper part of the bag. Add a boarder around the other 3 edges (this is for looks only).
• Squish, squeeze, and explore to your way to learning!