Sensory Bin: Ocean Exploration

Materials: - Blue rice or blue water beads - Shells - Plastic sea creatures - Sand - Scoops and spoons - Small buckets or containers

Lesson:

Introduction: Introduce the sensory bin to the toddler and explain that it is an ocean exploration. Show them the different materials in the bin and explain what they are.

Sensory Play: Encourage the toddler to explore the sensory bin by scooping and pouring the materials. Ask them to find the shells and sea creatures and talk about what they are. Encourage them to use their imagination and pretend they are exploring the ocean.

Learning: - Vocabulary: Introduce new vocabulary words such as ocean, shells, sea creatures, sand, and waves. - Sensory Development: Sensory play helps develop a child’s senses, including touch, sight, and sound. - Fine Motor Skills: Scooping and pouring materials helps develop fine motor skills. - Imagination: Encourage the toddler to use their imagination and pretend they are exploring the ocean.

Clean Up: Encourage the toddler to help clean up the sensory bin by scooping the materials back into the containers. Talk about the importance of cleaning up after playtime.

Extension: Read a book about the ocean or watch a video about sea creatures to extend the learning and exploration.