Colored Rice Sensory Bin
Dye rice rainbow colors for an irresistible sensory bin. Easy to make, lasts for months, and kids love it.
What You'll Need
- 1Rice
- 2Food coloring
- 3Vinegar
- 4Zip-lock bags
- 5Large container
- 6Cups and scoops
How to Make Colored Rice
Add 1 cup rice to a zip-lock bag.
Add 1 tsp vinegar and several drops of food coloring.
Seal and shake until evenly colored.
Spread on a baking sheet to dry (1-2 hours).
Repeat with different colors.
How to Play
Pour the rainbow rice into a large container or bin.
Add cups, funnels, scoops, small toys.
Hide letters, numbers, or small objects for a hunt.
Let them pour, scoop, and dump freely.
Tips
Put a sheet under the bin for easy cleanup.
Store dried rice in an airtight container — it lasts months.
Add cinnamon or vanilla extract for a scented version.
Age Adaptation Tips
Toddlers learn through repetition. Keep it simple, expect mess, and let them explore at their own pace. Demonstrate first, then let them try.
Preschoolers can follow multi-step instructions. Ask open-ended questions and encourage them to predict what will happen next.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 25 min, with 2 hours of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: rice, food coloring, vinegar, zip-lock bags, large container, and 1 more item.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 1-3 years, 3-5 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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