Sensory Bags

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We have recently been enjoying lots of fun with a range of different sensory bags.

They are new in our setting at the moment and I am kicking myself that I didn't create these sooner.

What is a Sensory Bag?
A sensory bag is a bag that is filled with interesting sensory stimulating materials that allow access to explore without getting your hands messy. They are great for babies under supervision and also for children who experience sensory overload and steer away from getting their hands 'dirty'.

What do I need to create a sensory bag?
There is a huge range of materials and liquids that can be explored via sensory bags. Here is a list of some of the things you may wish to consider:
Shampoo, Shaving Cream, Hair Gel, Baby Oil, Water, Paint, Playdough, Straws, Sequins, Buttons, Food Bags, Tape.

What should I consider when creating Sensory Bags?
Here are a few things you should take into consideration when putting sensory bags together and whilst your children are playing with them:
- Topics - Can you link a bag to a topic you are covering/your child is studying at school/nursery/with their childminder? Is there a festival or celebration coming up that could inspire your bag?
- Interests - What are your children currently into? Linking activities and play set ups to their interests will always go down well!
- Sharp Edges - You really must steer away from items that have sharp edges as they will pierce the bags.
- Creativity - Allow children to explore the bags with different body parts for example exploring them with your feet can give a different spin on the experience.
- Sealing - The bags are not 100% water tight so sealing the bags with tape will prevent leakages.
- Settings - Consider the setting you are exploring them. Some bags will look more effective stuck to the window to allow light through. Light tables also work well.
- Supervising - All children will need supervising when exploring sensory bags.

Examples of Sensory Bags.