Ocean Exploring

Since we are updating our ocean unit this week, I decided to try my hand at implementing an ocean sensory bin.  I didn’t consult the internet for ideas, because I figured, how hard could it be, right?  I could have had something like this:

 

Beautiful, right?  No…I got some sand and water.  You know, like the real thing, and I got this…..

   
Its like the muddy Mississippi, or a visit to the water treatment plant. 

That being said, I started a little better.  We separated sand and water initially, it just didn’t take too long for the things to get mixed together.  I did add these things, too.

You just couldn’t see them.  :)

Now I put this sensory bin out on the back porch and let E play.  I figured I might get 15 messy minutes out of this if I was lucky.  No, my kid played in it for a whopping 45 minutes!  Was she messy?  YES.  Was it worth it?  Without a doubt!

Here is what we did: 

1. We counted the things we found onto our counting mats (which I made for you!  Just print and laminate!)
   
2. We talked about the way things felt in the water and under the sand
3. We observed the animals we had and talked about them
4. We played pretend and helped dolphins run from sharks and count sea shells

The sensory bin is good fun.  If you are wanting a safe and semi-mom free activity, skip the water and go with one of the bins above.  However, if you’re brave and cheap this method is sure to be rich on memories!