Sensory bags are a great way to help provide some tactile input for all children. They’re cheap, easy, and can provide all kinds of fun opportunities for kids. Sensory bags are one of my favorite sensory items to make because of how easy and versatile they are. All you need are some ziploc bags, hair gel, and a few add in items. 

As for versatile, you can do so many fun things with sensory bags. Since they’re made on clear ziploc bags the world is really your oyster. You can use a sharpie to draw a maze for them to work through, funny faces for them to decorate (Wolly Willy anyone??), or matching games! 

This are also a great way to get some pre writing practice in. Fill the bag with just gel and food coloring (and some glitter if you’re anything like me) and laminate individual letters of the alphabet for them to copy on their bag.

Not only is this a fun activity for kids to play with but you can also involve them in the creation process! Toddlers and preschoolers can help fill the bags and add in what they want! They can pick colors, glitter, and draw pictures in the bags to make it their own.

Sensory Bags!
Ingredients:
Ziploc bags (I use gallon but you can use smaller if you want)

Clear hair gel

Duct tape

Add in items (food coloring, glitter, pom-poms, sharpies, etc.)

Step 1: Fill Ziploc bag with a layer of hair gel. You only need enough to fill a layer of the bag. Don’t overfill the bag or you risk it popping.

Step 2: Add in food coloring and any other add-ins you want

Step 3: Seal the bag getting out as much air as possible

Step 4: IMPORTANT! Seal off the edges of the bag with duct tape. This step is super important in early childhood because it prevents kids from being able to open the bag (and playing with the hair gel like it’s slime all over your house/classroom) and it also helps prevent the edges from popping.

***PRO TIP: when choosing glitter and sequin options to put in your bag beware of things like stars that have pointed edges. The edges can puncture the side of the bag and create holes.