This was a fun project that I put together for my 2 year old. Sophia loves ocean animals, especially sharks! So when I saw these ocean animal figurines at the Target Dollar spot, I decided they would be perfect for sensory play. I bought these water beads from Amazon, and they’ve lasted us for a long time. Especially since a little bit goes a long way!
Here’s what you’ll need:
-Plastic bin
-Water beads
-Water
-Ocean animal figurines
-Spoons or scoopers
-Bowl
Water beads are known to be non-toxic but make sure that your child is old enough to not put them in their mouths. When you place them in water they expand in size. Sophia did this activity outside because it can get a bit messy! I also always explain to Sophia before playing with water beads, that they are NOT for eating just for playing. Adult supervision is necessary!
First, I put blue and green water beads in a plastic bin, and filled it with water. After a few hours I added more water. Then, once the water beads were ready I added the ocean animals in the bin. I also put a seashell in there. As well as a few other little spoons and scoopers. I ended up giving Sophia a big bowl so that she could scoop them into the bowl.
You really can’t go wrong with this activity! Target Dollar spot and the Dollar store are both great places to find affordable ocean animal figurines. I’ve also seen seashells at the Dollar store. You can even add kinetic sand to imitate the “sandy beach”.
This was such a simple, easy idea and Sophia loved it! It kept her entertained for a long time!
