Kids will enjoy thiscolor sorting sensory bag, which combines sensory play with learning. If you are teaching colors in pre-k, this easy activity is an ideal choice.
RELATED: Alphabet Sensory Bag
Color Sorting Sensory Bag Activity
Setting up this color activity is very simple!
This idea is featured in a fantastic recycled activity book for children called Recycle and Play. Inside, you will find 50 activities to enjoy with kids. The book focuses on recycled materials and includes a wonderful variety of learning, play, sensory, and fine motor ideas.
If recycled activities are your favorite, be sure to explore our recycled craft for kids books!
It is also an excellent way to build fine motor skills by moving the beads while practicing color recognition!
Supplies Needed To Make a Color Sensory Bag
The materials are simple: a gallon-size resealable bag, hair gel, permanent markers, and pony beads. Instead of beads, you can substitute other small, colorful items, including buttons or pom poms.
Resealable Bag– we choseLarge Ziploc Bags
Clear Hair Gel –depending on the bottle size, you might require 1 or 2 bottles. Visit your dollar store to find an affordable choice. Clear shampoo or body wash gel can work as well, though these options may produce additional bubbles inside the bag.
Colored Permanent Markers – You will need 6 different colors
Beads– we selected pony beads in 6 shades corresponding to the permanent markers
Lid – use a lid from a small jar or a bottle cap to outline the circles.
Glue – apply extra strong glue to attach the googly eyes.
Watch the Video Tutorial Here!
How To Make a Color Sorting Sensory Bag
1. First, trace 6 circles onto the bag, using a different colored permanent marker for each one. For color matching, we paired every marker shade with its matching beads.
A jar lid worked well for tracing the circles, although a small cup would work for this part too.
2. Arrange the 6 circles in a U formation to create the caterpillar’s body.
Use a black permanent marker to draw 2 antennae on the caterpillar’s head.
3. Attach 2 large googly eyes to the head with glue.
4. Pour hair gel into the bag, adding enough so the beads can move freely.
Next, place the beads inside. If they are hard to move through the bag, add a little more hair gel.
5. Close the bag securely. To prevent leaks or keep little children from reaching the beads, place additional duct tape across the top so it cannot open by accident. Always supervise children when small pieces are being used.
Your sensory bag is ready! Children will enjoy pushing the beads into the circles with the corresponding colors.
We began by gathering all the beads in the middle of the bag, making the circles easier to view. After the beads have been sorted, mix them together and repeat the activity!
This enjoyable activity strengthens fine motor abilities and reinforces color matching. For another way to explore the alphabet, check out our alphabet sensory bag.
Remember to explore the complete book, and if recycled activities appeal to you, take a look at our recycled craft for kids books!