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Our son is really into musical sounds lately, so I knew that I wanted this Christmas sensory bin to include something that makes sounds. What’s more appropriate during the month of December than some good old jingle bells? So, with a little inspiration from my fellow bloggers’ peppermint sensory bins, I created this Bells, Bows and Peppermint sensory bin. It was a big hit.
First, we scented and dyed the rice, and it’s easy to do. Just put a few cups of dry rice into a large freezer bag, add a tablespoon or two of peppermint extract and some food coloring, and shake, shake, shake until it’s evenly coated.
Spread the rice onto a cookie sheet covered in wax paper, and allow it to dry overnight.
Isn’t it pretty? From there, you just add your bibs and bobs.
I chose bows because they’re pretty and sparkly (and he had fun sticking them on his toys and saying they were surprises). In addition to the small jingle bells, I added two large bells for pouring and a measuring spoon for scooping. I also put a bell-shaped cookie cutter in there, but it didn’t get much use.
Here’s a collage of the kiddo playing with his “surprise.” First, he rang the jingle bells and sang a long and hilarious version of “Backyard Beach” from Phineas and Ferb. He then played with the bows, affixing them to his various toys and saying that they were gifts for Mommy, Daddy, his grandparents and basically every person he could think of. He spent a long time scooping the rice into the bells and then pouring from one bell to another. Finally, he decided that Elmo needed to eat some rice. He says that Elmo thinks the rice is yummy. 🙂
This is so much fun! I love the addition of the bells and bows.
Thanks, Melissa. They were lots of fun, and I love the sound of jingle bells. 😉
You are so creative! I would never think to do that but now I’m copying you! Not sure about the rice with my 17-month old maybe I’ll replace with something else?
You could do cotton balls instead. 🙂
It’s perfect!! Love the addition of the bells 🙂
Thanks for the inspiration, Katie!
Perfect holiday bin idea! I gave up the rice recently though because my little boy just would not keep it contained well at all. I love your cotton ball idea from the other comments though! Thanks so much!
The rice definitely doesn’t stay in the container, but using a blanket helps tremendously. We also try to have him sit on a blanket with multi-piece toys like puzzles and blocks. It keeps the mess contained…most of the time. 😉
Oooh I bet those bells make some neat noises with the rice. Thanks for posting. Hello from Busy Monday.
This is fabulous! I love it. Pinned and tweeted. Thanks for being a part of our party! I hope you stop by on Monday at 7 pm. We love to party with you. Merry Christmas! Lou Lou Girls