When it comes to sensory bins, I usually make a new one every week and have an easy time coming up with ideas. I have a storage cart that houses sensory supplies so in a pinch, I search through there for inspiration and it only takes me a few minutes to put together a new bin.
This summer was the busiest we have ever had (four different camps between VBS, day camp, horse camp, and mountain bike camp for five of the kids, extended family camping trip, my trip to Virginia to speak at a blogging conference, family road trip to Vancouver Island, out of town wedding in the mountains where my husband was the best man, and various day trips) and trying to get back into the swing of homeschooling this Fall has not gone as smoothly as planned.
Even something as simple as coming up with a new sensory bin can add to the general feeling of overwhelm. That’s where great friends come in! My friend Michelle gifted me this sensory bin in a bag. She was one of the moms that did the sensory bin swap with me last year and since then, we have given each other a few bins-in-a-bag.
Making a bin-in-a-bag couldn’t be simpler. You take your latest sensory bin and dump the contents into a resealable bag and then pass it along to someone so that their kids can enjoy a new sensory bin experience.
Michelle’s Autumn Sensory Bin contained:
- birdseed
- cinnamon
- bright coloured feathers
- fall leaves (plastic)
- thin gold rope
- two scoops
- green pompoms
- a rock
- a clothespin
Granola Girl said that this bin reminder her of an I-Spy sensory bin. She enjoyed playing with the different textures and she liked the cinnamon scent (though Michelle’s daughter was not a fan of it apparently!). Between the colours and the smell, this sensory experience was a great way to welcome Fall!
I’m thankful that I have friends who share their sensory bins with me when I’m in a bit of a creative funk! (Michelle did give me permission to post pictures of her lovely creation).
If you are looking for information on making sensory bins, you may be interested in my book. 
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