Overheard in Occupational Therapy: Using Sensory Bins to Stimulate Sight, Taste, Smell, Touch, and Hearing.
Sensory bins have gained popularity in the past few years–and with good reason. Research shows that sensory bins can help children:
Decrease sensory sensitivities
Learn new words through the discovery of new items
Provide a sense of calm or relaxation
Help with fine motor skills (Source: parentingnow.org)
Therapists with Rehab Specialists of Idaho enjoy playing with and making all different types of sensory bins with kiddos who visit us at our pediatric clinics. Bins can have a wet or dry base filler such as leaves, rice, water beads, or even slime. Objects in the bins can be themed for holidays, or just filled with fun, safe items lying around the kitchen, toy room, garage or bedroom.