Hey there, pumpkin spice lovers! Are you one of those moms who just can’t get enough of pumpkin spice this time of year? (I see you, clutching your PSL like a lifeline while navigating the chaos of Target with your littles in tow!)
If so, this is for you! I’ve whipped up a fun and festive activity that’ll not only keep your kids engaged but also give you a few precious moments to enjoy that latte—hot, for once. 🎃
Introducing the Pumpkin Spice Sensory Bin!
Listen, I know there’s a whole “thing” online, and making fun of women who love pumpkin spice season, and calling them basic. Pffft. I won’t ever let anyone steal my joy. Let people enjoy things!
A pumpkin spice sensory bin is simple to make, smells heavenly, and is full of textures and surprises that will keep your kids occupied longer than you can say “extra foam.”
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to engage those little hands and minds in some sensory play. Trust me, I’ve tried every trick in the book to grab a few minutes of peace, and this one is a winner!
So grab your cinnamon sticks, some fall-themed goodies, and let’s make this autumn magical—for both you and the kiddos. 🍂
Pumpkin Spice Sensory Bin Instructions
Of course, be aware of any food restrictions before doing this one. And, store safely to avoid ants!
Supplies:
- Reese’s Puffs Cereal
- Mini Marshmallows
- Pumpkin Candy
- Cinnamon Sticks
- Coffee Mug or Cup
- Whisk or Spoon
- Scoop
Prep:
- The cereal colors represent the actual liquid in a PSL
- The pumpkin candies bring in the pumpkin angle.
- The marshmallows represent the whipped cream.
- A metal mug is preferable, as it isn’t breakable.
- Cover the entire bottom of the bin with cereal, then push some aside to make a spot for the marshmallows. This guarantees good coverage.
- Making separate areas for each ingredient helps kids view them as individual parts of a recipe. If you follow the recipe play suggestion, this can help.
Play Suggestions:
- Encourage kids to scoop the various ingredients into the cup or mug.
- Kids can practice making layers of each ingredient.
- Mix the ingredients, and encourage kids to sort them back out before scooping.
- Give kids a specific recipe, eg two scoops of cereal, one scoop of marshmallows, and six pumpkins.
More Sensory Bin Ideas
- Fall Sensory Bin Ideas from Dollar Tree
- Make a Bumble Bee Sensory Bin
- 50 Sensory Bin Ideas
- St. Patrick’s Day Sensory Bin
Halloween Fun
- Disabilities and Halloween: How to Make your Celebration Inclusive
- 28 Free Halloween Coloring Pages
- The Ultimate Halloween Movies List
- 10 Free PDF Halloween Worksheets
- 101 Halloween Words + Free PDF
- You’ve Been Booed Poem for Your Neighbors
- 31 Best Apple Picking Orchards for 2024
- 8 Halloween Social Stories including Trick or Treat
- How to Host a Trunk-or-Treat
- 20 Halloween Costumes with Helmets (baby or seizure helmet)
- 10 Fun Alternatives to Trick or Treating that Kids will Love
- 13 Unlucky Facts about Halloween
- Halloween Writing Prompts (free PDF worksheets)
- 24 Free PDF Pumpkin Worksheets including Pumpkin Life Cycle
- Pumpkin Spice Sensory Bin