If your toddler loves making messes, touching everything, and asking endless questions, this activity might become your new favorite.
At first glance, it’s just blue Jell-O and a few toy sea animals.
But once my toddler got his hands into this ocean sensory bin, it quickly turned into a deep-sea adventure filled with sharks, whales, hidden treasures, and lots of excited storytelling.
It was incredibly easy to put together.
If you’re looking for an easy sensory activity that feels special but doesn’t require a complicated setup, this ocean sensory bin for toddlers is a great choice.
Supplies Needed
- 2 boxes blue Jell-O
- Water (according to package instructions)
- Large sensory bin or plastic container
- Plastic ocean animals
- Seashells
- Fine glitter (optional)
- Scoops, cups, or spoons (optional)
How to Make the Jello Ocean Base
Step 1: Prepare the Jell-O
Prepare the berry blue Jell-O according to the package directions.
You may want to use slightly less water than recommended if you’d like a firmer texture.
Step 2: Pour into the Bin
Carefully pour the prepared Jell-O into your sensory bin.
Step 3: Create the Ocean
Add ocean animals, sharks, whales, dolphins, rays, fish, and seashells.
Step 4: Chill
Place the bin in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight until fully set.
Safety Tips
Always supervise young children during sensory play.
Although Jell-O is technically edible, the sensory bin may contain small items that are not safe to eat.
If your toddler still mouths objects frequently, consider using larger ocean animals and shells.
More Sensory Play Ideas
If your toddler enjoyed this ocean sensory bin, they may also love:
