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Valentine’s Sensory Tuff Tray

A delightful sensory activity for Valentine’s Day, encouraging imaginative play and sensory exploration with colors, textures, and scents.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Activity, Craft
Cuisine N/A

Ingredients
  

Base Materials

  • 1 large tray Large sensory tuff tray or shallow bin
  • 2 cups Kinetic sand or colored rice (red and pink) You can choose between kinetic sand or colored rice.

Sensory Items

  • 3 pieces Heart-shaped sponges or cookie cutters
  • 1 cup Red and pink pom-poms
  • 1 cup Glitter hearts and foam shapes
  • 5 pieces Small plastic hearts or Valentine’s trinkets
  • 5 drops Scented oils (like vanilla or strawberry) Ensure they are safe for children.

Tools

  • 2 pieces Measuring cups and spoons For scooping
  • 3 pieces Plastic containers For sorting and pouring

Instructions
 

Create the Base

  • Start by selecting your tuff tray or bin.
  • Pour in your colored rice or kinetic sand to create a sensory base, filling it about an inch deep.

Add Sensory Items

  • Distribute heart-shaped sponges and cookie cutters evenly throughout the tray.
  • Sprinkle in red and pink pom-poms for a pop of color and texture.
  • Scatter glitter hearts and foam shapes to catch the light and add visual interest.

Scent the Tray

  • Drip a few drops of scented oils into the base material, mixing gently to distribute the fragrance evenly.

Encourage Play

  • Place measuring cups, spoons, and small containers within the tray for scooping, sorting, and pouring.
  • Encourage participants to explore by creating shapes, sorting colors, or simply enjoying the sensory experience.

Notes

Adjust colors, experiment with natural materials, and incorporate personalized items to make your sensory tray unique. Ensure supervision for young children.
Keyword Creative Play, Imaginative Play, Kids Activities, Sensory Activity, Valentine's Day