Falling for Sensory Play: Your Prime Day Guide to a Toddler Fall Sensory Bin!

Prime Day is just around the corner, and it's the perfect time to snag some deals on Amazon to create an engaging and educational fall-themed sensory bin for your toddler! Sensory bins are fantastic for developing fine motor skills, encouraging imaginative play, and exploring different textures and scents. Plus, who doesn't love a good autumn theme?

Why a Fall Sensory Bin?

Autumn brings with it a bounty of natural elements perfect for sensory exploration – leaves, acorns, pumpkins, and more! Recreating these in a sensory bin allows your little one to safely interact with the season indoors. It’s a wonderful way to introduce concepts like colors, shapes, and the changing seasons.

What You'll Need (and Where to Find It on Amazon Prime Day!):

Here's a shopping list to help you create an amazing fall sensory bin. Remember, I'm sharing affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase – it helps support my content creation!

1. The Bin Itself:

   • Clear Storage Container with Lid: Look for durable, clear bins. Clear is best so your toddler can see all the exciting contents! A 15-20 quart size is usually ideal.

2. Base Fillers: These are the bulk of your bin and provide the main sensory experience.

   • Dried Corn Kernels: An excellent, natural filler that feels wonderful to run hands through. You can often find large bags of dried whole corn for crafts or animal feed.

   • Dried Black Beans: Another great, inexpensive option that provides a different texture and color contrast.

   • Orange or Brown Shredded Paper Filler: Perfect for adding a soft texture and vibrant fall colors.

   • Artificial Fall Leaves: Grab a big pack of silk or fabric fall leaves in various colors.

   • Acorns or Small Pinecones (Artificial or Treated Natural): If using natural, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and baked at a low temperature to eliminate any critters. Artificial ones are readily available.

3. Sensory Tools & Manipulatives: These items encourage scooping, pouring, and imaginative play.

   • Small Scoops and Cups: Look for sturdy plastic scoops, measuring cups, or even small metal pails.

   • Tongs or Tweezers (Child-Friendly): Great for developing fine motor skills and pincer grasp.

   • Small Wooden Spoons: Another versatile tool for digging and stirring.

   • Mini Pumpkins and Gourds (Artificial): Add some festive fall flair!

   • Fall-Themed Cookie Cutters: Leaf, pumpkin, or apple shapes are perfect for making impressions in the filler.

   • Small Wooden Blocks or Figures: Consider adding a few small wooden blocks or animal figures that fit the fall theme (e.g., squirrels, foxes).

   • Cinnamon Sticks or Star Anise: For an extra sensory dimension, add a few aromatic spices (ensure they are large enough not to be a choking hazard and supervise closely if your child tends to mouth items).

Putting It All Together:

Once your Amazon Prime Day haul arrives, assembling your bin is easy!

1. Start by pouring in your base fillers.

2. Add in the artificial leaves, acorns, and mini pumpkins.

3. Place your scoops, cups, and tongs within the bin.

4. Invite your toddler to explore!

Safety First:

Always supervise your toddler during sensory play, especially with small items. If your child is still prone to putting things in their mouth, opt for larger fillers and items, or consider edible sensory bins (like cooked pasta or O-shaped cereal).

Please note that this post contains affiliate links. When you click on and make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission, helping to keep this blog running and creating more content for you.

Happy Prime Day shopping and happy sensory playing!