Check out this ultimate list of summer sensory activities for kids, including bins, crafts, ice and water play ideas!
Looking for easy, fun, and affordable summer sensory activities for kids?
Look no further than this ultimate list of summer-themed sensory bins, crafts, and play ideas!
Find ideas for toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarten-aged kids, and big kids, too.
From miniature ocean-scapes and 4th of July crafts to mud kitchens and homemade slime, there’s something for everyone on this list!
The Best Summer Sensory Activities
DIY Summer Sensory Bins
Ice and Water Sensory Play
Summer Sensory Crafts
Other Summer Sensory Activities
Easy Homemade Elements for Sensory Bins
Here are some simple DIY sensory bin components to help you create your own sensory sensations this summer!
These recipes make a great base for bins and bags:
- How to Make Play Mud
- How to Make Bubble Foam
- DIY Ocean Slime
- Bouncing Bubbles Recipe
- How to Dye Rice for a Sensory Bin
- How to Make Moon Sand
- How to Make Color Changing Slime
You can find cheap and fun items to complete your bins at dollar stores and craft stores.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Plastic animals and bugs
- Aquarium scenery and rocks
- Faux flowers
- Dry beans, rice, and pasta
- Elements from nature like grass, twigs, leaves, shells, and rocks
- Beads and costume jewelry
- Cotton balls
And here are some of our favorite summer theme ideas for sensory bins:
- Beach/Ocean/Tropical
- Pool Party
- Safari
- Lemonade
- Ice Cream
- Insect
- Camping
- Dinosaur
- Farm Life
- Pirate Treasure
- Watermelon
Want More?
Looking for more fun summer ideas for kids? Try these!
- The Ultimate List of Summer Activities for Kids
- Summer Crafts for Kids
- Nature Activities for Kids
- Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Ideas for Kids
- Summer Camp Activities for Kids (at Home!)
- Free Printable Summer Schedule for Kids
- Family Summer Bucket List
Your Turn
What did you think of these summer sensory activities? Are there any ideas you think we should add? Let us know in the comments!