DIY Sensory Kits: Creative Projects You Can Make at Home

If you’re anything like me, you know how magical sensory play can be. There’s something so heartwarming about watching your child’s tiny hands squish, pour, and mold their way through different textures and materials. If you’re new to sensory play, I’ve shared some tips in a previous blog to help you get started, but here, I want to talk about something even more special - creating sensory kits at home.  

The joy of DIY sensory play goes beyond the activity itself. For me, it’s been a bonding experience. What are its benefits?  It fosters creativity, encourages problem-solving, and gives us a chance to connect in the simplest yet most meaningful way.  

Here are a few of our favorite projects that you can try too -  

Chia Seeds and Sabudana:

I love how easy and versatile this one is. We soak chia seeds and sabudana (tapioca pearls) in water until they turn into a squishy, slippery sensory base. Sometimes, we add a bit of food coloring for extra fun. My little ones love scooping and squishing them, and honestly, so do I. it’s oddly therapeutic!  

Frozen Shaving Cream and Pebbles:

This is a summer favorite at our house. We freeze shaving cream in small molds and hide pebbles or tiny toys inside. As the cream melts, my little one gets so excited to discover the “hidden treasures.” It is a simple way to introduce sensory play to toddlers.

Taste-Safe Colored Rice:

Making colored rice at home is such a fun process, my kids pretend it is cement sometimes and a treasure trove the other! The best part is that it’s taste-safe (explore another taste-safe option demonstrated here! ) But being short on time, this while I loved using our pre-colored rice kits. They’re vibrant, safe, and ready to go!

Making playdough - clay with a Twist:

Homemade clay is always a win in our house. We mix flour, salt, water, and oil, but the real magic happens when we add little surprises, glitter, spices, or even coffee grounds for texture. One time, we made clay “cookies” with vanilla essence, and the house smelled amazing! It makes them spend hours in their play area. The room for creativity in sensory play is what makes it the best form of open-ended play. 

Cotton Snowman (A Holiday Delight!):   

This is our favorite holiday project. We stacked cotton balls to make a fluffy snowman, put glue on buttons for eyes, and added a little paper hat and a ribbon scarf. Sometimes, we sprinkle sabudana (tapioca pearls) around to make it look like snow (for another festive surprise idea check this out!) It’s simple, festive, and brings so much cheer. 

You see? Sensory play activities don't have to be complicated! 

These small activities spark big memories.  If you’re new to sensory play, start simple. These little moments of exploration and creativity are what make parenting so special.  

So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and dive into the world of sensory play. You’ve got this!