Create a Solar System Sensory Bin and have your very own tiny solar system in your classroom. The kids will be able to play with the planets (as well as the moon, sun and pluto) and put them in order with this free printable.
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 Outer Space Play Ideas for Kids
If you like this solar system themed sensory bin, then here are some more easy space play activities for toddlers and preschoolers. They’re a great way for your little explorer to experience the wonders of space travel.
- Space Silhouette Art for Kids
- Planet Match Activity (Free Printable)
- Bottle Rocket Craft for Kids
- Outer Space Yoga Poses
- Alien Planet Sensory Painting
For more ideas, check out these 40 Space Activities for Kids
Materials Needed
- The Solar System free printable pdf
- A large tub
- 2 pounds of dried black bean
- Small pebbles (washed)
- Mod podge
- A paintbrush
How to Make A Space Sensory Bin
1. Download and print the free solar system printable
You can find this free printable at the below. Just head to the bottom of the post and click the large blue button to get your copy.
2. Glue the pictures onto your pebbles
I used a pair of scissors to cut out and then glued the planets onto small pebbles. However, this is optional. I decided to use pebbles because I wanted something different for the kids to play with, and the pebbles made me think of space rocks.
If you prefer, you can just cut and laminate each of the pictures instead. Which would make this such an easy print and play activity.
3. Pour the black beans into a large plastic bin
I used dried black beans because they are easy to store for future sensory bins. But of course, you can choose whatever filler you prefer. Moon sand, black water beads or dark kinetic sand would all be wonderful options if you’re looking for a fun texture to try.
4. Place the planets inside the beans
Make sure to wait until your planets are dry before placing them inside the tub.
If you like, you can also hide the planets underneath the black beans, that way your younger kids will have to go digging in order to find them.
5. Enjoy Playing
Don’t forget to add in your sensory bin tools. You don’t need anything fancy. Regular cups, spoons and bowls are the most played with in my family.
Different Ways to Play
1. Go on a space mission
If you have any astronaut small toys on hand, this is the perfect time for some space exploration. Children have fantastic imaginations and can engage in hours of imaginative play when they want to. Why not let your astronauts blast off in a rocket ship and go visit the moon, mars, or any of the stars in the night sky.
2. Sort by size
The planets on this printable are not to scale, but you can still arrange the pebbles according to size. This is a great hands-on opportunity for young children to learn some math skills while they play.
3. Order by proximity from the sun
Learn the names of the different planets and organize them by order from the sun. There is a sorting mat for this activity included in the free printable that you can use as part of this sensory bin, or as a separate fun activity.
4. Scoop and pour
The main part of any sensory bin are the sensory bin fillers. use cups, spoons and bowls to practice scooping and pouring the beans from one container to another.
Although simple, this is one of the best ways for little kids to strengthen fine motor skills (muscles in their hands and fingers). They won’t even realize that their little hands are getting a workout because they’ll be having so much fun playing.
Are you going to try this Solar System Sensory Bin with your kids?
Don’t forget to pin the idea for later.
