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This post is by contributor Sarah!
As my daughter grew closer to being able to eat solid food she, like many babies, was increasingly interested in the food on our plates, and especially beverages. She loves watching liquids move. So, rather than continue to push our glasses further and further away from her, preventing spills, but only adding to her frustration, I decided to make something she could hold herself to explore the motion of liquids.
Sensory bottles are a great way to allow kids to experience, observe and explore in a safe and engaging way. These mini-sensory bottles are the perfect size for my little one’s 6 month-old hands.
The bottles are a mixture of two of her favorite things to watch: liquids and the beads in a plastic transparent rattle. She finds both mesmerizing.
To make these sensory bottles, you only need a few supplies:
- travel sized shampoo bottles
- water
- pony beads
- a hot glue gun and glue
The prep is relatively simple. Open up the bottles and put a few beads in. Then, simply fill up with the desired amount of water.
I experimented a bit with the bottles before I secured the lids with hot glue, just to see what my daughter’s preferences were. I found that by varying the amount of water, we got different effects.
When you only fill the bottle part way, the beads make more of a rattling noise and you can make a whirlpool with the water. When filled all the way, the beads flow nicely in the bottle. This seemed to be her preference, but your child’s might be different!
Once you are satisfied with the outcome, secure the lid by lining it with hot glue and screwing it shut. This will prevent any water from leaking out and potential choking hazards caused by the lid or the beads. I also periodically check the lid to be sure it is still secure before letting my little one play with it.
She loves watching me tip the bottle up and down to see the beads slowly go from one end to another. She also enjoys holding onto the bottle and watching it herself. This is a really nice, peaceful lap activity, and an excellent way to explore the properties of liquids without making a mess!
About the author:
Sarah Benton Feitlinger, M.Ed. is a former Preschool-6th science teacher, mom, blogger and science curriculum developer. She is passionate about educating children, and loves anything and everything science! Check out her blog, Share it! Science for fun science activities, lessons, science news, learning product reviews and other resources for kids, teachers, homeschoolers and parents.
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