These tubs of wonder are a favorite activity in our house, providing hours of play, exploration, and entertainment. The 2 year old, who hasn’t been diagnosed with SPD but is exhibiting some of the signs, loves them. From time to time you will even find the 9 year old playing with them also. As I type this the 2 yr old is happily and quietly playing with her Mardi Gras Tub (pictured above). Toddlers and preschoolers learn the most about their world through exploration and play. Sensory tubs provide this giving them hours of fun and providing them with a host sensory experiences. They also help work on fine and gross motor skills through scooping, pouring and other activities.

Creating a sensory tub is easy  and relatively inexpensive. I try to create a new one every few weeks so it’s always a new experience and I never spend more than $10-$12 per tub. Most of the items can be purchased at the Dollar Tree or your grocery store.

First you need a plastic tub, any plastic tub will do. I personally like plastic dish pans, they are deep enough that most of the mess stays inside, but small enough that they are portable. Then you need your imagination. It’s that easy.

Things you can find in our tubs

• dried beans
• shredded paper
• plastic trinkets
• sand
• confetti
• cups
• spoons
• small plastic toy
• scented things like cinnamon sticks
• feathers
• tinsel
• garland
• cotton balls
• buttons
• rice

The sky is the limit – use your imagination!

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