Ocean Sensory Bin – Simple Sea Creature Set Up!

ocean sensory bin for toddlers and preschool sensory play marine creatures sea animals

This ocean sensory bin is not only a fun way to spark imaginative play with sand and sea creatures, but it’s also so simple to set up! The ocean is amazing, but that doesn’t always mean that we’re actually able to get there and play. An ocean-themed sensory bin is a great alternative that will have the kids feeling like they have their own private beach right at home.

Ocean Sensory Play

The best part about this ocean sensory bin activity is that it’s super fast and straightforward to set up. Literally, within just a few moments of time, your little ones will be enjoying some messy play and having a fantastic time at the “beach.”

If you’re looking for a sensory activity that the kids will love sinking their hands into, this is the perfect summer fun idea to do!

Skills: Sensory Play

Ages: 12 Months +

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

How to Set Up an Ocean-Themed Sensory Bin

Below you’ll find the simple steps on how you can create this “under the sea” sensory activity. In this video, you’ll see how simple it is to set up, and how it can spark imaginative play and excitement for all things marine science! Use this as a way to encourage them to “dive” into learning even more about the ocean.

All activities should be supervised by an adult. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links.

How to Set Up an Ocean-Themed Sensory Bin

Below you’ll find the simple steps on how you can create this “under the sea” sensory activity. In this video, you’ll see how simple it is to set up, and how it can spark imaginative play and excitement for all things marine science! Use this as a way to encourage them to “dive” into learning even more about the ocean.

All activities should be supervised by an adult. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links.

Ways to Set Up the Sensory Bin

There are so many ways to set up an ocean-themed sensory activity. You can create a simple tray with water and marine creatures inside, you could freeze the marine creatures in an ice tower, or you could have your kiddos build an ocean-in-a-jar like pictured! You can play with this inside on a rainy day in the bathtub, or you could bring this outside as we did in our sandbox!

Sand Recommendation. I recommend getting play sand from Home Depot. They sell 50 pound bags for less than 5 dollars!

Figurine Recommendation. There are so many companies that sell figurines perfect for small world play set ups like this. My go-to is Safari Ltd, they sell figurines in many different themes and sizes from a set of small figurines, to very big ones! Plus, you can use the code 7DAYSOFPLAY to get a discount!

Tray or Bin Recommendation. My personal favorite right now is this tray with removeable sections. It is a great price and I love the way you can separate sections if you’d like while also retaining a deep dish!

Materials

Bin/Tray
Sand
Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Put the sand in the container that you’re going to use. Add in a bit of the water and press down into place. (This hardens the sand quicker). Alternatively, you can place sand around the tray as we did in our sandbox!

Step 2

Once the sand is packed down, pour the rest of the water on top. (you can add in the food coloring before this step directly to the water or add it now and give it a swirl)

Step 3

Don’t forget to add the ocean animals and figurines!

Step 4

Let the kids create a fun ocean water adventure. Perfect for creative play.

Step 1

Put the sand in the container that you’re going to use. Add in a bit of the water and press down into place. (This hardens the sand quicker). Alternatively, you can place sand around the tray as we did in our sandbox!

Step 2

Once the sand is packed down, pour the rest of the water on top. (you can add in the food coloring before this step directly to the water or add it now and give it a swirl)

Step 3

Don’t forget to add the ocean animals and figurines!

Step 4

Let the kids create a fun ocean water adventure. Perfect for creative play.

Educational Benefits Of This Ocean Sensory Activity

Did you know that sensory play can activiate new pathways within the brain? Yes! It really is quite amazing.

Sensory play helps with fine motor skills and language skill development.

This activity is great for the kids to learn even more about ocean animals. Talk to them about the ocean being home to the various animals and talk to them about their favorites and why. This is a great chance to discuss the different oceans around the world, too.

And, definitely worth noting, small world set ups are great way to spark creative and imaginative play!

Educational Benefits Of This Ocean Sensory Activity

Did you know that sensory play can activiate new pathways within the brain? Yes! It really is quite amazing.

Sensory play helps with fine motor skill and language skill development.

This activity is great for the kids to learn even more about ocean animals. Talk to them about the ocean being home to the various animals and talk to them about their favorites and why. This is a great chance to discuss the different oceans around the world, too.

And, definitely worth noting, small world set ups are great way to spark creative and imaginative play!