Beach Sand Sensory Bin Tutorial

In this BLOG post I will teach you how to make Beach Sand, the benefits of sensory play and ways to store this fun sensory base.

I LOVE an ocean theme, especially with the warmer months coming up. It is fun, engaging and keeps my kids playing and creating!

This beach sand is a version of Moon Sand and it is THE BEST. It is soft, squishy, buildable AND moldable. It lends itself to any theme and can be differentiated in so many ways!

You can scoop it, pour it or dump it. You can use molds, cookie cutters or small buckets to make sandcastles. You can add in gems or plastic animals or any kind of seasonal trinket you like.

These shell molds are from the Dollar Tree during Easter. I always pick up some extras during the season that I think can be used throughout the year. For $1.25, you can't beat it and they can be reused over and over for so many activities.

The best part about Moon Sand is that you may have all of the materials that you need at home already!

What are the benefits of sensory play? Glad you asked! The benefits are truly endless.

Sensory play supports:

• Language development & vocabulary

• Cognitive growth

• Fine motor skills (small muscle movements)

• Gross motor skills (big movements)

• Problem-solving skills

• Communication

• Exploration of textures

• One's ability to make connections

• The concept of cause & effect

Sensory play can be calming. It can provide opportunities to relax, focus and sooth. Sensory play can also be a safe and effective way to release BIG emotions. Smashing and pushing and smooshing the moon sandcastles can be so satisfying!

Sensory play is ageless. From babies to toddlers to kids to teens to adults...everyone can benefit from sensory play. There is no age limit to exploring sensory set-ups.

Sensory play is also a fun and engaging way to incorporate academics into your play. Making moon sand? Great! Add in counting bears for a fun way to explore colors and sorting. Add in plastic or wooden letters to work on identifying letter names or sounds. Toss in pom poms and work on counting, sorting and making patterns.

The benefits are truly endless!

Materials:

• 2 cups Flour

• 1/2-1/4 cup Vegetable oil

• Mixing bowl

• Measuring cup

• Sensory tray or bowl

Step 1: Gather your materials and set up your sensory spot.

Step 2: Pour all of the ingredients into a bowl & mix well.

Step 3: Once the oil is incorporated, I like to go in with my hands and really blend all of the materials together. This also gives you a feel for the moon sand: if it feels sticky, add a bit more flour. If it feels too dry, add a bit more oil! The texture should be soft and squishy. You should be able to easily make a sandcastle but also easily crumble it away.

Step 4: Add in your favorite trinkets and PLAY!

IMPORTANT:

There is a difference between taste safe and edible. This recipe is not meant for full consumption. If your kiddo is still heavily exploring with their mouths I would save this one for later!

In order for this to be considered taste safe, you must bake the flour on a sheet pan at 350° for 10-15 minutes. This kills any bacteria that may be found in the flour.

APFL Tips:

Storage:

Store moon sand in an airtight container (Ziploc bag or Tupperware container) for up to 3 weeks. If you notice any mold, discard immediately.

Scenting the Sand With Spices:

If you want to incorporate an extra layer of sensory goodness into your play, try adding spices!

• Pumpkin pie spice

• Cinnamon

• Cocoa powder

Food coloring:

You CAN use food coloring if you want, but it is tricky to get the color to mix with the oil. I find you have to mix it VERY well with your hands to incorporate the color in, but it can be done!!

Clean-Up:

Sweep up and discard any moon sand that has fallen in the trash. Store the remainder in an airtight container. When you are done completely with your batch of moon sand, dispose of it in the trash. Do NOT put down the drain. If you are playing with this outdoors, be mindful of the fact that it is food based and can attract animals/bugs if left unattended.

You get to decide what is safe and manageable in your home. Always monitor young children.