There’s nothing like an activity where your kids learn so much at once. This Australia Rainbow Sand Writing Tray is a fine motor activity, a sensory bin, and a literacy activity all in one. Because there’s so much learning going on, it’s also great to use for kids of all ages. My toddler and preschoolers both loved playing with this easy writing tray idea.
Disclosure: Some of the links provided in this blog are affiliate links. I will be paid a commission if you use this link to make a purchase.
More Australia Play Ideas for Kids
Here are some more Australian themed play activities for toddlers and preschoolers. Learn all about the land down under with these fun ideas.
- Handprint Dot Art
- Q-Tip dot paintings – Aboriginal inspired art for kids.
- Australian Animals Free Activity Pack
- Australia Sensory Bin
- Koala Sticky Wall
- Australian Wattle Craft
- Sydney Harbour Bridge Craft
- …
For more ideas, check out these 28 Australia Activities for Kids
Materials needed
- Rainbow Sand Recipe (or you can buy it here)
- Tray
- Paper (or Alphabet Flash Cards)
- Pen
- Scissors
How to Create a Rainbow Sand Writing Tray
Step1: Make your rainbow sand using this Beach-Safe Rainbow Sand recipe and let it dry completely. This may take a few days or you can put it in the oven to speed up the process.
2. Get a tray with edges and pour your rainbow sand inside. Shake the tray to let the sand spread evenly.
3. Optional: get a few tools to draw with if you want your child to practice their pincer grip. This can be anything you want, from feathers, q-tips, or even regular paintbrushes. Or just let them use their fingers to write, draw and make patterns in the sand
4. Write some letters, numbers, or shapes onto separate pieces of paper and let them be a guide for your kids to copy. If you have Alphabet Flash Cards then these would be perfect for this activity.
If you don’t want to make your own rainbow sand, you can always buy some. I recommend getting some Aqua Sand or Craft Sand. Aqua sand doesn’t stick together but it is also so awesome for making underwater sandcastles. I really love how you can use it again and again. It’s not just a one-time magic trick.
Even though my kids are too young to be writing, they still had a blast drawing with this writing tray. I love it when the same activity can be used for both older and younger siblings. If your kids love this activity, then be sure to save the sand and try some of these Rainbow Sand Art Activities.
Are you going to try this Rainbow Sand Writing Tray with your kids?
Don’t forget to Pin the idea for later.
