15 Summer Sensory Activities For Kids
Summer is the perfect season for kids to explore the world through their senses—and sensory play is a fun, hands-on way to keep little ones engaged, learning, and cool during those sunny months. Whether it’s squishing, scooping, or splashing, summer sensory activities offer a playful path to developing fine motor skills, creativity, and calming routines. From colorful sensory bins filled with sand and seashells, to squishy sensory bags that travel well, to water play that turns the backyard into a mini oasis—there’s no shortage of ways to delight the senses and beat the heat. Let’s dive into some simple and exciting sensory ideas that are perfect for summer days!
Summer Sensory Bins
Summer sensory bins are all about capturing the fun and textures of the season, using simple, engaging materials that spark creativity and play. Think kinetic sand or water beads for a beachy feel, dried rice dyed in sunny colors, or even ice cubes for a cool twist. You can build themes around ocean adventures with blue rice, seashells, and mini sea creatures, or go tropical with faux flowers, scoops, and palm tree toys. Garden-themed bins with soil, plastic bugs, and mini shovels are great for nature lovers, while lemonade stand bins with yellow water beads, cups, and pretend lemons add a sweet touch. The possibilities are endless—and perfect for outdoor, mess-friendly fun!
Full instructions at taminglittlemonsters.com!
You can get this kit on Etsy!
Full instructions at taminglittlemonsters.com!
Get this pond life sensory kit on Etsy!
Full instructions at taminglittlemonsters.com!
You can get this ocean play sensory kit on Etsy!
Full instructions at taminglittlemonsters.com
Full instructions at thechaosandtheclutter.com!
Summer Sensory Bags
Summer sensory bags are a fun, mess-free way for kids to explore textures, colors, and movement—all while keeping cool! These squishy, sealed bags can be filled with materials like hair gel, water, oil, or aloe vera gel, along with add-ins like glitter, foam shapes, small toys, or beads. Summer themes can include an “ocean in a bag” with blue gel, plastic fish, and seashells, or a “sunshine bag” with yellow glitter, buttons, and smiley faces. Try a “frozen treat” theme using gel and pom-poms to mimic popsicles, or create a nature walk bag with leaves, flower petals, and tiny pebbles. They’re easy to make, super soothing, and great for sensory play on the go!
You can find this busy bee bag on Etsy!
Full instructions for this sprinkle bag at thechaosandtheclutter.com!
You can get this mermaid bag on Etsy!
You can find these at SewNelDesigns on Etsy!
Purchase these at Reggio Baby on Etsy!
Get the full instructions at kidsactivitiesblog.com!
Full instructions at fantasticfunandlearning.com!