In this BLOG post I will teach you how to make a shaving cream sensory bin, the benefits of messy play and how to contain the mess!
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XO Gina
Shaving cream on its own is a fabulous sensory base. It lends itself to a variety of different activities, it is easy to clean-up and the possibilities for play are endless.
You can practice pre-writing skills by twirling and tracing and twisting your fingers around in the shaving cream.
You can scoop it and dump and pour and create sensory experiences with it.
You can play pretend and let your imagination go WILD!
It is messy, but so much fun! We added a festive fourth of July twist with the red, white and blue but you can add any colors you want!
Materials:
Bottle of shaving cream
Food coloring (optional)
Mixing bowl
Mixing cup/spoon
Sensory tray or bowl
Scoops and trinkets
I buy shaving cream from the Dollar Store. You want to make sure it is white shaving cream; I do not buy the gel kind!
If you are sensitive to smells, I would look for a fragrance-free option.
You do not have to use food coloring. It is still just as fun as is!
Step 1: If you are using food coloring, divide the shaving cream into bowls: one per color.
Step 2: Add 5-7 drops of food coloring into each bowl and mix well.
Step 3: Once fully incorporated, transfer the mixture to a sensory tray OR leave it divided in the bowls.
Step 4: Add in some tools (scoops, measuring cups, trinkets).
Step 5: PLAY!!!
Messy Play Tips:
We have very little color transfer when we do this, but with food coloring the chance is always there. If it gets on your skin, it comes off with soap and water.
Wear clothes that you are ok with getting dirty and throw them in the wash afterwards! I like to plan super messy activities for times when we are heading to the tub afterwards.
This is also a great activity to do outdoors. Lay down an old beach towel or sheet. Our favorite item to use is a plastic shower curtain from the Dollar Store. Just spray everything down with the hose when you're done.
You can also leave wipes, towels and a plastic bag next to you while you play to help wipe down any unwanted spills.
Lastly, put a bucket of water near your play area. If someone doesn't want the shaving cream on their hands, they can quickly clean up by dipping in the bucket!
IMPORTANT:
This is NOT a taste-safe recipe. If you have children who are still exploring with their mouths, I suggest saving this recipe for later.
Check out our Taste-Safe CHIA SEED Slime HERE!
Always monitor young children in or around water. Small objects can be choking hazards. You get to decide what is safe and manageable in your home.
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