Young children will have so much fun with this Astronaut Sensory Bin. It’s so easy to make and is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who love learning about outer space. Pair it with a good book and you’ll be ready for your own space exploration adventure.
This easy space activity t will not only encourage sensory development, but also language development, fine motor skills and provide hours of imaginative play. How good is that?
Disclosure: Adult supervision is required for all activities at all times. Some of the links provided in this blog are affiliate links. I will be paid a small commission if you use this link to make a purchase.
More Space Themed Activities to Try
If you love this outer space sensory bin, then your little astronaut will love these other space theme crafts and activities. These are fun, hands-on play ideas that are perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Solar System Sensory Bin
- Space Silhouette Art for Kids
- Free Printable Space Lacing Cards
- 6 Outer Sace Sensory Bags
- Glowing Galaxy Water Sensory Tray
For more fun ways to enjoy the wonders of space travel, check out these 40 Space Activities for Kids.
Materials Needed
- A large tub
- Black rainbow rice
- Outer space small toys
- Sensory bin tools (cups, spoons, bowls, etc)
How to Make an Astronaut Sensory Bin
1. Pour the black rainbow rice into the tub.
I used my taste-safe rainbow rice recipe to make black rainbow rice for this fun space sensory bin. But there are a few different sensory bin fillers to try. For example you could also use:
- Dried black beans
- Black or dark blue moon sand
- Kinetic Sand
2. Add in the astronauts and rocket ships.
I had a set of space themed toys that I got to use for this space themed sensory bin. It included little astronauts, space vehicles like the lunar rover, rocket ships and satellites.
But of course, there are so many more small items you could include in your bin. The more items you include, will give plenty of opportunities for your little explorer to engage in open-ended exploration.
Some of my favorite ideas for your own space mission to include are:
- Moon rocks (you can use balls on tin foil or pom poms to make space rocks)
- Foam planets
- Glow in the dark stars
3. Enjoy playing.
Give your child some sensory bin tools and enjoy playing. I find that regular cups, bowls and spoons are the best for sensory play. You really don’t need anything fancy.
All of these everyday tools are a great way to help children develop fine motor skills (fine motor control refers to the muscles in their little hands and fingers), which in turn help them to be more independent (like being able to feed and dress themselves more easily).
Are you going to try this Astronaut Sensory Bin with your kids?
Don’t forget to pin the idea for later.
