Amazing Christmas Sensory Bin Ideas for Kids - With the Blinks (2024)

Are you ready to make this Christmas extra special for your little ones? If you’re looking to create unforgettable holiday memories, engage your kids, and bring some festive magic into your home, you’re in the right place! Welcome to “With the Blinks,” your go-to source for holiday fun and great kids activities. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of my favorite Christmas sensory bin ideas and how they can turn your holiday season into a wonderland of joy. Let’s dive right in!

What Are Christmas Sensory Bins?

Christmas sensory bins are captivating play setups designed to stimulate a child’s senses. They’re a combination of textures, colors, and holiday-themed items that immerse children in a world of discovery and imagination. These bins are all about touch, sight, and creative play, making them perfect for children of all ages.

Need holiday shopping inspo? Find my Christmas Gift Guides here!

Sensory Bin Ideas For Kids

Candy Cane Sensory Bin

You will need:

• 2 bags of rice
• peppermint candies
• marshmallows
• candy canes
• other festive winter toys
• chalkboard
• chalk
• tweezer or any other tool to scoop out the manipulatives

To dye your rice you will need a Ziploc bag, a tsp of vinegar, and food coloring of choice. Mix it with the rice in a bag and then pour it out and lay flat on a plate until completely dry.

Starbucks Sensory Bin

You will need:

• coffee beans
• mini marshmallows
• mini candy canes
• spoon and cup
• 2 bins

Find all the details on how to create this fun Christmas sensory bin idea by following @athomewithJanan on Instagram

Nutcracker Sensory Bin

You will need:

• dyed rice
• pearls
• jewels
• painted any toys to match your theme.
• nutcracker and ballerina Christmas ornaments

All the details on how to create this fun Christmas sensory bin idea by following @knead.to.play on Instagram.

Hot Cocoa Sensory Play

You will need:

• ripped up brown wrapping paper for the hot chocolate
• felt balls from amazon for marshmallows (but pom poms or cotton balls would work too!)

Let your kids make orders for you and their toys, pretending to pour the milk, stir the hot cocoa and add marshmallows.

For the full setup of this adorable sensory play idea follow @girlgangandco on Instagram

Calm Down Sensory Globes

You will need:

• DIY snow globes
• baby oil
• glitter
• mini bottle brush trees
• figurines for the calm down globes
• fake snow
• scoops
• mini ornaments
• bottle brush trees

Instructions on the full set up for these calm down sensory globes follow @tami.omalley on Instagram

Winter Wonderland Sensory Bin

What you’ll need:

• faux snow
• the bells
• wooden snowflakes
• disco balls
• stars
• trees
• cups

Details on how to create a winter wonderland sensory bin for your little one by following @lifeoncrosscutway on Instagram.

Why Christmas Sensory Bins Are Magical

The magic of Christmas sensory bins lies in the immersive experience they provide. Here’s why they’re an exceptional addition to your holiday traditions:

• Promotes Learning: Sensory bins stimulate cognitive development, fine motor skills, and imaginative play.
• Builds Memories: Creating and exploring the bins together becomes a cherished memory for families.
• Reduces Stress: It’s a fantastic way to keep kids entertained during the holiday season, providing a little downtime for parents.
• Enhances Festive Spirit: The holiday-themed sensory items infuse the Christmas spirit into your home.

What holiday theme would your kids love to explore in their Christmas sensory bin this year? Share your ideas in the comments below please!

This Christmas, why not make the holiday season extra special for your kids with enchanting Christmas sensory bins? These sensory wonderlands are not only a source of endless fun but also a fantastic way to bond with your children during the holidays. If you need more ideas for holiday activities or gift guides, remember that “With the Blinks” is here to help you make the most of your family’s Christmas experience. Let’s celebrate the magic of the season together!

Remember to connect with us for more holiday ideas and delightful Christmas inspiration. Your holiday journey begins here at With the Blinks!

Check out more Christmas Ideas below or all of our Gift Guides:

Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Girls

Christmas Gift Ideas for 8 Year Old Girls

Christmas Gift Ideas for 6 Year Old Girls

Christmas Gift Ideas for 4 Year Old Girls

Christmas Gift Ideas for Teachers

a quick note

a quick note