Ice Cream Sensory Play: How to Make a Shaving Cream Ice Cream Shop
- Gina
- Jun 9, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
In this BLOG post I will teach you how to make a shaving cream ice cream shop and explain the benefits of messy play.
Shaving cream is FULL of sensory goodness. The sound, the feel, the smell- it all lends itself to a ton of learning, playing and creating!
This shaving cream ice cream shop does not disappoint. It’s soft, colorful, squishy and the perfect base for some summer fun.
This set-up entertains all four of my kids AND it only requires a few materials. That’s a win in my book! Sensory play truly is ageless. It allows kids of all ages and abilities to play together, but separately. Everyone can play and explore at their own comfort level and developmental level.
The opportunities for learning and play are endless. As they play, kids will have opportunities explore color names, color mixing and texture.
They can practice works such as: scooping, mixing, pouring and scraping.
They can practice ordering: “May I please have one scoop of vanilla with sprinkles?”
It is open-ended play at its finest!
Are you looking for more ice-cream themed play?
Check these out:
These activities are so fun for summer but can be enjoyed all year long!
Did you know that sensory play activities can be an amazing tool for self-regulation?
They can be so calming for kids (and adults). While their hands are busy scooping, pouring and exploring, they are calming their bodies and their brains.
Sensory play can also be a safe way to release BIG emotions through banging, smashing and squishing!
Materials:
Shaving cream
Food coloring
Sensory tray or bowls
Spoon
“Toppings” (optional)
Plastic cones or bowls
Scoops
Step 1: Squirt shaving cream into your bowl. Add in 3-5 drops of food coloring and mix well. Add more if you want a darker color.
Step 2: Repeat for any additional colors that you want.
Step 3: Add a bowl of toppings, if you want. I used chickpeas and couscous from a previous sensory set-up.
Step 4: Add ice cream cones, bowls and scoops and PLAY!
Kids can go in with their scoops or dig in with their hands. It allows for each person to explore based on their own personal sensory boundaries.
Activities like these are amazing for that reason and so many more!!
Is there a way to make this taste-safe?
Try making it with whipped cream topping!
How do you clean it up?
If you are playing outdoors, use a hose for clean-up. If you are playing indoors, scrape what you can into the trash and then rinse with soap and water in the sink.
What age is this recommended for?
Any child who is no longer exploring with their mouths.
What can I use besides food coloring?
Washable paint, luster dust or a tiny bit of liquid watercolors. Be mindful of your clothing and surfaces.
Does food coloring dye their hands?
Depending on how much food coloring you use, there may be a small amount of color transfer. It washes off with soap and water!
Can I leave this set-up for a few days?
Shaving cream is more of a one-time use activity. I leave it out for the day, then clean it up when we are finished playing.
You get to decide what is safe and manageable in your home. Always monitor young children.
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