How To Make A Sensory Box

Introducing the sensory box! A simple idea that works like a charm, sensory boxes have become an on-trend parenting hack that can help keep tiny tots busy at home (and on the go).

Sensory Box Ideas 

Intrigued? Read on to learn more about this new sensory toys craze and discover how to make one for your own curious youngster.  

What is a sensory box?

Like a sensory bin, but a more compact travel-friendly version, sensory boxes involve a small container packed with sensory toys and/or homemade items that stimulate the senses.

How do you make a sensory box?

Making a sensory box is super easy, which is part of its perks! Here’s how you can make a homemade sensory box in 3 easy steps:

1. Dig out an old cardboard box (a shoe box works well) and line it with colourful tissue paper

2. Gather a selection of toys or items from around the house that will appeal to your littlen’s senses - particularly sight, sound and touch (ideas below)

3. Pop them in the box for a sensory play surprise! 

What age is a sensory box for?

Sensory boxes work best for babies and toddlers from around the age of 4 months to 3-5 years old. They can also be a thoughtful gift idea for baby showers and birthdays. 

What should go in a sensory box?

Find toys and items that invite youngsters to explore contrasting textures, listen to new sounds and discover different colours and shapes. Here are some sensory box ideas by age to help inspire you!

Sensory box for babies

As your bambino explores their baby sensory box goodies, describe how the objects look and feel (hard/soft, bumpy/smooth etc.), as this will do wonders for their brain development, language learning and memory.

• Maracas
• Silicone teething toys
• Bell shaker
• Sensory spinners
• Rainmaker
• Sensory blocks
• Animal sound maker
• Baby rattle
• Wooden animals

• Scrunched up paper 
• Ribbon
• Bath sponge
• DIY sensory bottle 
• Tin foil tube
• Homemade rice rattle

Sensory box for toddlers

As they grow and develop, your toddler will be able to experiment with a more diverse range of sensory toys suitable for older tots. They may also start to enjoy independent play more, and sensory boxes are perfect for this. 

• NeeDoh sensory balls and toys
• Classic kaleidoscope
• Magic glitter tube
• Sensory shapes
• Dinosaur hand puppet
• Tin music box
• Kids kazoo

• Homemade playdough (check out our easy playdough recipe)
• Guess-the-scent bags
• Rainbow pasta (just add food colouring!)
• Make your own slime
• Balloon stress ball
• Tin can drum
• Sock puppets
• Pasta shaker 

What are the benefits of a sensory box?

A simple little sensory box introduces babies and toddlers to new sights, sounds, textures, smells - even tastes. They are a great way to encourage sensory play sessions, which help littlens learn through curiosity and creative exploration. Playing with a sensory box is also an excellent mindfulness activity and promotes calm, screen-free fun, while enhancing children’s fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and cognitive development.